Gourishankar Soni's art delves into the soul of Rajasthan, capturing the essence of its cultural heritage and everyday life. His vibrant paintings, adorned with figures immersed in folk traditions, reflect the simplicity, dignity, and grace of Rajasthani existence. Despite hailing from the land of maharajas, Soni's subjects are commoners—sadhus, singers, puppeteers—individuals with their own unique stories etched onto the crevices of forts and havelis. Through easily flowing narratives, Soni elevates these figures, offering a glimpse into their resilience, hope, and joys.
Soni's meticulous placement of circles and triangles heightens the interactions of souls in his artwork, weaving captivating stories. His paintings, like "Social Distance," poignantly address contemporary issues, using symbols to question the relevance of cultural traditions. The artist transforms history into mythical realms, layering his works with exquisite references. The beauty of lines, vibrant colors, and allegorical precision characterize Soni's art, creating a harmonious blend of tradition and contemporary storytelling.
Born in 1980 in Shrimadhopur, Sikar, India, this artist has cultivated a rich artistic journey. With a Diploma in Drawing & Painting from the Rajasthan School of Art, Jaipur, and an M.F.A. in Painting from the Faculty of Fine Art, Rajasthan University. Accolades include State Awards by Rajasthan Lalit Kala Academy in 2000, 2008, and 2011, as well as an All India Award by AIFACS in 2004. Noteworthy international engagements include the International Burullus Art Symposium in Egypt and participation in exhibitions in London, Ivory Coast, and Tunisia.
Receiving prestigious awards such as the National Junior Fellowship Award for Painting in 2016 and the National Scholarship Award for Printmaking in 2004-05, this artist's work is sought after and finds a place in prestigious collections both in India and abroad.
