Ramesh Aundhkar, a name synonymous with the rich tradition of Indian art, was destined to be an artist. Born into a family of artists, with his father as a profound influence, Ramesh grew up surrounded by creativity, where art became more than a passion—it was a way of life. From his earliest days in Sangli to becoming a Gold Medalist and Fellow at Asia’s first-ever art school, Sir J.J. School of Art, Mumbai, Aundhkar has dedicated his life to exploring and expanding the horizons of fine art in India and beyond.
However, what truly sets Aundhkar apart in the global art landscape is not just his mastery of traditional forms but his groundbreaking innovation: the “4 Directional Composition” artform, an unprecedented concept in visual art that he both discovered and pioneered during the Covid-19 pandemic. This revolutionary style places him in an entirely unique space, one that no other artist, either from the Indian subcontinent or anywhere in the world, has ventured into.
The Formative Years: A Training Ground for Excellence
Aundhkar’s initial training at KalaVishwa Mahavidyalaya in Sangli laid the foundation of his journey. He then pursued advanced studies at the prestigious Sir J.J. School of Art, Mumbai, where he completed his graduation and post-graduation. It was here that he not only honed his skills but was also recognized as a Gold Medalist and a Fellow, a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication to his craft. Sir J.J. School of Art, one of the most reputed art schools in Asia, provided him with the rigorous academic and practical training that would shape his future as a versatile artist, proficient in a variety of mediums.
Mastery Across Mediums
Aundhkar’s artistic brilliance lies in his versatility. Whether working with acrylics, oils, pastels, inks, or watercolors, he has mastered the art of expression across all mediums, painting on canvas, board, and paper. His works resonate with both abstract and figurative styles, showcasing his adaptability and depth of thought. Each medium, in Aundhkar’s hands, becomes a tool to explore the intricacies of human emotions, the subtle beauty of nature, and the profound mysteries of life.
In addition to his individual achievements, Aundhkar has also contributed to monumental artistic projects, assisting the renowned artist Prafulla Dahanukar in her murals that adorn various iconic spaces in Mumbai. His contribution to these large-scale works reflects his ability to collaborate and translate grand visions into reality, further cementing his place in the annals of Indian contemporary art.
The Birth of a Revolutionary Artform: The 4 Directional Composition
What truly distinguishes Aundhkar from his peers, however, is his discovery and pioneering of the “4 Directional Composition” artform, an innovation he achieved during the global pandemic in August 2020. While most artists throughout history have adhered to the traditional vertical or horizontal orientations of canvas, Aundhkar broke new ground by using all four orientations of the canvas—vertical, horizontal, and both diagonal directions. This revolutionary approach transforms the viewing experience entirely, offering a distinct visual narrative with each rotation of the canvas, be it clockwise or counterclockwise.
No other global artist, past or present, has dared to venture into such creative terrain. Aundhkar boldly claims that no visual artist on Earth has produced a “4 Directional Composition” since the evolution of mankind. To date, no artist from India, Asia, or the Western world has conceived, imagined, or executed an artform parallel to this. His work presents not just four orientations, but four distinct subjects—each emerging with every turn of the canvas, making each piece a multifaceted exploration of human experience, nature, and emotion.
Aundhkar has openly challenged contemporary visual artists around the world to create or provide evidence of such a form, but to this day, no one has accepted the challenge or provided evidence of a similar artform. This silence serves as a testament to the unique genius of Aundhkar’s vision.
The 4 Directional Composition is not only revolutionary but also mesmerizing, offering viewers an experience akin to kaleidoscopic vision. Just as a kaleidoscope reveals new patterns with each turn, so too do Aundhkar’s canvases, unveiling new meanings and perspectives with every rotation. This exceptional innovation makes his work magical, miraculous, and fundamentally novel, as it challenges conventional perspectives and pushes the boundaries of what art can achieve.
A Journey Beyond the Canvas: Art Writer and Educator
Aundhkar’s career has not been limited to the creation of art; he has been an integral part of shaping the Indian art narrative through his work as an art columnist and writer. His thought-provoking articles in leading Marathi dailies like Loksatta and Lokprabha, as well as his contributions to English and Marathi art publications, have inspired countless readers to engage with the arts more deeply. His writings are a bridge between the artists and the public, helping demystify the world of art for the uninitiated while offering rich critiques for connoisseurs.
Throughout his career, Aundhkar has also been associated with institutions like the Weavers’ Service Centre, the National Vocational Institute, and the Symbiosis Institute of Design, Pune. His role as an educator has allowed him to nurture young talent, passing on the legacy of fine art to future generations. Even after his retirement from Symbiosis in 2016, Aundhkar continues to work as a freelance artist, visiting faculty, and art writer, furthering his lifelong commitment to the arts.
Exhibitions and Recognitions: A Global Footprint
Aundhkar’s artistic journey is marked by numerous solo and group exhibitions across India’s most prestigious art galleries. From the iconic Jehangir Art Gallery and Taj Art Gallery in Mumbai to the Shridharani Art Gallery in Delhi, his work has graced the walls of some of the country’s most celebrated spaces. His participation in major art fairs and exhibitions, such as the Kala Mela by Lalit Kala Akademi and the World Trade Centre’s “ARTIVAL” Art Fair, has brought his work to the attention of art lovers and collectors alike.
His contributions have not gone unnoticed. Aundhkar has received praise from leading art critics from The Times of India and Hindustan Times, acknowledging his unique ability to blend tradition with modernity, and the depth and breadth of his expression.
Art Collections: A Testimony of Trust
Aundhkar’s works have found their way into some of the most prestigious private and public collections. His paintings are part of the collections of corporate giants like the Wipro Group and Salgaonkar Group, and his association with prominent figures such as Azim Premji has resulted in multiple acquisitions. Aundhkar’s works also adorn public collections like the National Gallery of Modern Art in Mumbai and the Lalit Kala Academy in New Delhi. His international reach is equally impressive, with his paintings being owned by private collectors in countries such as the USA, UK, Germany, Japan, and South Africa.
Lifelong Honors and Awards
Throughout his illustrious career, Ramesh Aundhkar has earned many awards and honors. From receiving a cash award at the All India Art Exhibition in Delhi and Hyderabad to a research grant from the Lalit Kala Academy, his artistic endeavors have consistently been acknowledged by prestigious institutions. His achievements also extend into academia, where he earned a merit scholarship throughout his student years—a reflection of his dedication to both learning and art.
A Life Dedicated to Art and Innovation
Ramesh Aundhkar stands as a paragon of artistic brilliance, his life and career a reflection of tireless dedication and an unquenchable thirst for creativity. His contributions to art, whether through his groundbreaking 4 Directional Composition, his writings, or his teachings, continue to inspire the next generation of artists. Even after retirement, Aundhkar’s journey is far from over, as he continues to enrich the world with his revolutionary artform, mentoring, and thought-provoking commentary.
As an artist, writer, educator, and inventor of a revolutionary artform, Ramesh Aundhkar’s impact on the art world is profound and enduring—a testament to his passion, skill, and unwavering commitment to the beauty and meaning that art brings into our lives.
