P. Khemraj (1934 - 2001)

Excellent overall condition. Minor loss to paint at top edge, right of center, due to contact with plexi. Very minor wear to edges of boards, where the images meet. Frame: Minor wear to edges.
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This untitled painting epitomizes the romance and lyricism of form that are characteristic of the artist’s Asha Hans series. P. Khemraj was inspired by myriad aesthetic styles, from Indian miniature paintings and erotic temple art to European classicism and modern abstraction. Influenced by the rich Buddhist and Jain cave frescoes at Ajanta and Sittanavasal, Khemraj portrays the profound connection between human beings and nature. Cherubs, women, foliage and peacocks intertwine in a dream-like, phantasmal world, embodying sensuality and fecundity. The dark area at the top edge suggests it is night-time, signifying that we are in the realm of the subconscious state. A luminous quality prevails due to his use of gold paint against a cloudy, white space that dominates the painting. Here, the artist paints with thin, incandescent lines that disappear into the background, signifying the transient nature of the sleeping mind. Bright faces peep capriciously from behind vines and patterns, cherubs dance behind the wings of peacocks, and ethereal elements envelope one another.

An artist as well as a poet, cook, and sitar player, Khemraj is known for his multifaceted talents and fused various disciplines into his paintings. Pulsating with rhythm, this lyrical and intimate work evokes a deep sense of desire and radiates with serenity. Khemraj explains, ‘My creation starts with thought, which then becomes poetry.’ (Kishore Singh, Manifestations VII, Delhi Art Gallery, New Delhi, 2012, p. 94).