Valay Shende a esteemed video artist and sculptor, was born in Nagpur in 1980 and currently resides and work in Mumbai. His work profoundly addresses the issues affecting contemporary urban society and its individuals. Shende's artistic journey began with a Diploma in Art Teaching from Nagpur in 2000. He subsequently honed his skills at the prestigious Sir J.J. School of Art, Mumbai, where he graduated with a BFA (First Class) in Sculpture in 2004.
Furthering his artistic development, Shende participated in the Open-Air Program at Point Éphémère in Paris in 2006. He continued to expand his horizons through the Artist in Residency Programme at Glenfiddich, Scotland, in 2010.
Shende's creations are deeply influenced by his immediate environment, capturing the complexities and dichotomies of contemporary India. His work highlights the stark contrasts between modern industrial perspectives and traditional religious views. His recent sculptures are remarkable for their innovative use of materials, including minute metal discs, pocket watches, and copper-plated fiberglass, which contribute to their unique process and scale.
The integration of video art with sculptural installations in Shende's practice introduces a novel dimension to classical sculpture, setting his work apart in the contemporary art scene. A keen and sensitive observer, Shende is deeply concerned with the daily struggles and tribulations of the common man.
Valay Shende believes that artists bear a significant responsibility to society. He firmly holds that art can play a pivotal role in shaping a better future and ideal world can be envisioned and recreated with
the help of art.
