Every painting has a secret life. Before the first stroke of a palette knife hits the canvas, there is a memory, a philosophy, or a moment of intense inspiration that sets it in motion. As an artist specializing in Abstract Expressionism, my work is often born from the dynamic energy of my past—the vast horizons of maritime life, the discipline of military service, and the raw beauty of nature. But because abstract art speaks in the language of texture and color, the foundational stories can sometimes remain hidden from the viewer’s eye.
That is why I am incredibly excited to announce my participation in a groundbreaking new art exhibition concept: “Chitra-Katha: Tales Behind the Canvas – Series 1.”
Brought to life by the Guild of Fine Art & Artists (GOFAA) in association with ProCompass, this event completely redefines how we experience a gallery space.
- When: 26th to 28th June 2026
- Exhibition & Artist Interactions: 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM Daily
- Daily Storytelling Sessions: 6:00 PM on selected artworks
- Where: Nandalal Bose Gallery, Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), 9A, Ho Chi Minh Sarani, Kolkata – 700071
Where Art Inspires Stories, and Stories Create Meaning
As you can see from the official event poster in image_e40692.jpg, “Chitra-Katha” operates on a beautiful premise: “The Story Begins Where the Canvas Ends.”
This is not a traditional, silent walk-through exhibition. Instead, it is a curated journey designed to foster genuine human connection through the power of narrative. Visitors will not only see the physical paintings and sculptures on display, but they will actually hear the deep, compelling narratives behind specific pieces.
To bridge the gap between the artwork and the audience, the storytelling will be masterfully guided by Col. Abir Dutta (Retd.), the founder of ProCompass, executive coach, and renowned storyteller. Having a fellow veteran bring his unique perspective to the narrative structure of the show makes this collaboration particularly meaningful to me. Under his guidance, the paintings become a starting point for deeper conversations, personal reflection, and a shared creative energy.
Experiencing My Abstract World on a Deeper Level
For this exhibition, I am bringing pieces that carry heavy emotional and atmospheric weight. Through the “Chitra-Katha” framework, I look forward to peeling back the layers of my creative process. We will explore how a life lived on warships and interacting with the unpredictable power of nature translates into specific textures, colors, and abstract compositions.
When you understand the exact spark that triggered an abstract piece, your relationship with the artwork transforms. It shifts from passive viewing to an active, emotional connection. It is an extension of my core belief in “Art For Living”—the idea that art should be an accessible, therapeutic, and deeply engaging part of our collective wellness and cultural dialogue.
Come, See, and Hear the Creative
Whether you are a seasoned collector, an art student, a fellow professional, or simply a curious mind, this exhibition promises something entirely fresh for Kolkata’s cultural landscape. It is a rare chance to interact with the artists, discover the hidden human stories within the frames, and experience the arts with all your senses.
I invite you all to join us at the Nandalal Bose Gallery at ICCR from June 26th to 28th. Make sure to catch the 6:00 PM storytelling sessions to see my canvases come alive in a whole new dimension!
Which piece of mine have you always wanted to know the backstory to? Let me know in the comments below, or come ask me in person at ICCR!
