Kolkata, 8th December 2023 – Sanchit Art, a trailblazer in promoting modern and contemporary Indian art, is delighted to announce a mesmerizing retrospective exhibition titled ‘Songs of the Soil’ featuring the works of the esteemed artist Manoj Dutta. The exhibition, curated by the renowned Debdutta Gupta, unfolded today at the second floor of the prestigious Birla Academy of Arts and Culture, Kolkata, offering art enthusiasts a unique opportunity to delve into the rich and diverse world of Manoj Dutta’s creations.

The exhibition had an exclusive preview on the 5th of December, 2023, alongside with the much-anticipated launch of a comprehensive book on Manoj Dutta’s life and art authored by Manasij Majumder. The event was graced by the presence of eminent figures in the art world, with Jogen Chowdhury as the Chief Guest. Shri Ganesh Haloi, eminent painter and Renowned TV Personality & author, Shri Pankaj Saha were also in the attendance.

Sanchit Art has been a pioneer in providing a panoramic review of Indian art, with a focus on offering a holistic experience that blends intellectual and spiritual perspectives. The curatorial approach has consistently aimed to maintain a connection with the cultural foundations of the past while nurturing the dynamics of the contemporary art scene. The retrospective exhibition of Manoj Dutta’s works aligns seamlessly with this philosophy, showcasing the versatility and brilliance of the artist.

Born in 1956, Manoj Dutta’s art explores themes of nature, common people, and folk culture. His canvases are adorned with dolls, toys, and puppets, displaying stylistic traits such as unbroken lines, simplified forms, calligraphic and linear styles, and vibrant colors. What distinguishes Dutta’s art is its profound straightforwardness, radiating freedom, innocence, and unadulterated expression.

“Dutta’s art serves as a portal to his childhood, offering a vivid recollection of simpler times. His works often intertwine with nature and rural life, providing an escape from the sterile urban realities. Balloon sellers, toy bird vendors, behala (violin) players, and child entertainers come to life on his canvases, portraying the everyday lives of individuals with warmth and authenticity. Sanchit Art takes great pride in holding this retrospective exhibition in the city of Kolkata that showcases some of the great works by the late artist. We expect an overwhelming response from the art lovers for this exhibition”, said Mr Sanchit Joshan, Director, Sanchit Art.

The retrospective exhibition will be open to the public from the 6th to the 10th of December, 2023, starting at 11:00 am and concluding at 07:00 pm each day.

Some of his major solo and group exhibitions are-

Solo:

1993 Gallery Espace, New Delhi

2001 Gallery Om, New Delhi

2010 Gallery Ganesha, New Delhi

Groups:

1982, Four Painters, Birla Academy of Art and Culture, Kolkata.

1983, Joined the “Society of Contemporary Artists” Group, Kolkata

1984, National Art Exhibition, Lalit Kala Academy, New Delhi.

1985, Second Asian Art Show, Fukuoka Museum, Japan.

1986, Seoul Contemporary Asian Art Show, South Korea.

1987, Society of Contemporary Artists’ Show, Kolkata and Mumbai.

1988, Gallery 88 Exhibition, Kolkata.

1989, Contemporary Indian Art Show, Amsterdam Holland