The evening of November 19, 2024, the opening night of Buoyant Iconic Depth, was one of palpable excitement and heartfelt nostalgia as art lovers, collectors, and critics gathered at the Visual Arts Gallery, India Habitat Centre. The Sanjeev Sinha Foundation had meticulously curated this exhibition to honor the remarkable journey of Sanjeev Sinha (1963–2020), a visionary artist whose work continues to inspire, challenge, and transcend boundaries. For those who attended, the opening night was more than an event; it was a journey into the soul of an artist who captured the essence of humanity through his evocative art.
Buoyant Iconic Depth, curated by Els Reijnders, Director of the Foundation for Indian Artist, and Dianne Hagen, a visual artist from the Netherlands, offered a deep dive into Sinha’s artistic evolution between 2013 and 2020. With 45 paintings, drawings, and 14 sculptures on display, the collection illuminated the harmonious interplay between Sinha’s mediums, a vision he always dreamed of presenting side by side. This exhibition was not merely a display of his art; it was a culmination of a lifetime of storytelling, where each brushstroke and sculpture whispered tales of society, spirituality, and humanism.
The exhibition and the opening event garnered significant attention from the media, with coverage by prominent publications such as Outlook India, Business Standard, ANI, PTI, Mid-day, DNA India, The Print, Zee Business, Tribune India, Telegraph India, Navoday Times, Dainik Bhaskar, APN News among others. Their features highlighted the artistic brilliance of Sanjeev Sinha’s works and the Foundation’s efforts to preserve and celebrate his legacy. This widespread recognition not only underscored the importance of the event but also amplified the reach of Sinha’s timeless artistry to a broader audience.
A Night of Distinguished Presence - The Opening Night of Buoyant Iconic Depth
The gallery was abuzz as distinguished guests arrived, their presence underscoring the significance of the occasion. Among them was Mr. Anjani Kumar Singh, Director of the Bihar Museum, who shared his fond memories of working with Sinha and reflected on their enduring friendship. Mr. Ashok Vajpeyi, celebrated poet, essayist, and cultural critic, was another highlight of the evening. Known for his profound understanding of art and literature, Mr. Vajpeyi spoke eloquently about Sinha’s ability to create work that transcends time and culture. Mr. Sanjiv Kumar of Takshila, one of the exhibition’s sponsors, also graced the event, showing his continued commitment to supporting artistic endeavors of this magnitude.
But the evening’s emotional core was delivered by Abhigya Sagar, Sanjeev Sinha’s nephew and the Director of the Foundation. In a heartfelt address, Abhigya recounted the origins of the Sanjeev Sinha Foundation and the family’s commitment to preserving the artist’s legacy. "This exhibition is a dream that my uncle envisioned before his passing," he shared, his voice carrying both pride and reverence. "It is a celebration of his unparalleled talent and a promise to continue sharing his vision with the world." As he spoke, the gallery resonated with a profound sense of unity—a tribute to the power of family, art, and memory.
The Curators' Insight
As the evening unfolded, Els Reijnders and Dianne Hagen offered attendees a deeper understanding of the man behind the art. Els, who had represented Sinha as early as 1993 through her gallery in Amsterdam, recounted her enduring collaboration with the artist. She described the profound impact of Sinha’s narratives, his ability to weave Indian mythological themes with universal truths, and how his work challenged her understanding of art itself.
Dianne Hagen, who co-curated the exhibition and designed its accompanying book, reflected on Sinha’s philosophy. "His works are buoyant yet melancholic," she remarked, "revealing a depth that keeps the viewer floating between beauty and introspection." The curators also introduced a special video interview with Sinha from 1993, as well as a slideshow capturing the artist at work over the years. These elements added an intimate, almost tactile dimension to the exhibition, allowing guests to connect with Sinha’s creative process on a personal level.
The Art on Display
Walking through the gallery was akin to stepping into a vivid, layered world. Each painting and sculpture seemed to hold a story, inviting viewers to pause, reflect, and interpret. Sinha’s ability to blend mythological storytelling with humanistic themes was on full display, from vibrant canvases depicting society’s complexities to intricate sculptures that seemed to breathe life into abstract concepts.
The collection was particularly remarkable for its duality—its buoyancy and depth. While the vivid colors and bold forms elevated the spirit, the underlying themes often carried a melancholic undertone, urging viewers to look beyond the surface. The juxtaposition of paintings and sculptures revealed Sinha’s mastery of both mediums, creating a dialogue that was as harmonious as it was thought-provoking. "It’s as if the paintings speak to the sculptures, and the sculptures respond in kind," one attendee remarked, encapsulating the essence of the exhibition.
A Book to Remember
Adding to the evening’s significance was the launch of a commemorative book, designed by Dianne Hagen. Featuring essays by notable critics Meera Menezes, Willem Baars, and Els Reijnders, the book provided a comprehensive exploration of Sinha’s creative journey. Richly illustrated and thoughtfully written, it served as both a tribute to the artist and an invaluable resource for art enthusiasts. "This book is a testament to Sanjeev Sinha’s enduring legacy," said one of the attendees, holding the publication with admiration.
The Legacy of Sanjeev Sinha
Born in 1963 in Barh, Bihar, Sanjeev Sinha’s journey as an artist was nothing short of extraordinary. Emerging as a trailblazer in the 1980s, he combined the richness of Hindu and Buddhist mythology with a modern, humanistic approach. His work, whether contemplative paintings or bold sculptures, captured the essence of society, peace, and beauty, resonating across generations and geographies. In 1991, he was honored with the prestigious National Academy Award, cementing his place as a pivotal figure in Indian art.
Yet, Sinha’s legacy extends beyond his accolades. His work embodies the idea that art, at its core, is a bridge—between cultures, between the past and the present, and between the artist and the audience. The Sanjeev Sinha Foundation, through its exhibitions and initiatives, continues to uphold this vision, ensuring that his contributions to art and humanity are celebrated and remembered.
A Journey Continues
As the evening drew to a close, the gallery buzzed with conversation and admiration. Attendees lingered, reluctant to leave the world that Sinha had so vividly created. For many, this was more than an exhibition; it was an invitation to reflect on the universal truths that art can reveal.
The opening night of Buoyant Iconic Depth was a fitting tribute to Sanjeev Sinha’s unparalleled legacy. It was a celebration of his life, his vision, and his ability to connect us all through art. As the Sanjeev Sinha Foundation continues its mission, one thing is certain—Sinha’s work will continue to inspire, challenge, and transcend for generations to come.