Turtle's Tale of Life
Suresh Dhurve
Every artist gets their inspiration from a source, for Suresh Kumar Dhurve, birds are more than subjects, they are memory, rhythm, and identity. Growing up in Patangarh - a central point of Gold culture, he recalls long afternoons spent identifying birds by their calls, tracking their flights across the horizon, and listening to village elders tell stories of how certain species were tied to gods and ancestors. These impressions never left him. When Jangarh Singh Shyam, the great innovator of Gond art encouraged him to paint, it was birds that came first to Suresh’s canvases, and they have remained there ever since. His early works were full of vivid colour, the birds painted against Gond’s characteristic patterned backgrounds. But as his style evolved, Suresh began stripping his palette down, experimenting with monochromes. In his black-and-white works, birds emerge in quiet elegance, their wings etched in rhythmic detailing, their forms simultaneously fragile and strong. It was this distinctive language that earned him a solo exhibition at Bharat Bhavan in 2007, featuring 35 works that confirmed his standing as a leading Gond voice. Since then, Suresh’s art has travelled widely, from Indian galleries to international platforms like the National Gallery of Canada. Yet his themes remain constant: flocks in flight, birds in nesting clusters, divine rhythms woven into avian form. His work is both deeply personal, rooted in his own memories of growing up, the universe around him and the Gond belief of being connected to nature.
Description
Gond art is filled with culture, traditional beliefs, mythology and intriguing stories that combine these themes along with the Gond tribe’s deep reverence for nature and wildlife. The narratives mainly focus on the interconnection of nature and human life and the importance of living in co-existence peacefully. Suresh Dhurve, a well-known Gond artist tells stories through tribal designs. His art shows how the Gond people connect spiritually with nature and their surroundings.
In Gond philosophy and ancient Indian thought, the turtle is more than an animal, it holds the weight of the world on its back.The turtle is not just a creature of the earth but is seen as a carrier of life itself, with its shell representing the universe and its body carrying the flow of existence.
In this painting the artist beautifully depicts a spider resting on the back of a turtle's shell, with four fish forming its limbs. Surrounding the turtle, trees grow while small groups of fish swim against a vibrant yellow backdrop. The artist has illustrated two suns at the top corners, symbolizing daylight. The background is primarily blue, representing water, while the green land features houses and birds, reinforcing the connection between human life and nature. This stunning composition symbolizes the harmony between humans, marine life, animals, and birds, with vibrant hues bringing the artwork to life.
Why does this painting standout?
Authentic Gond Tribal Artwork by Renowned Suresh Dhurve - His art shows how the Gond people connect spiritually with nature and their surroundings. With careful detail and bold images, he highlights the traditions and beliefs of the Gond community.
Narrates Gond life through form and pattern: Each detail is a part of a larger story- transmitting cultural memory, spiritual connection, and the rhythms of tribal life.
Measuring 48x60 inches, this artwork stands out as a statement piece, a conversation starter and a highlight in any room it is placed.
Bring home this divine piece of art, rich in culture and deep symbolism, to enhance your art collection. This timeless piece of art is a must-add-on. Add to your cart now!
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Suresh Dhurve
Gond artist || Inspired by Nature || Torch bearer of art
Unique Practice
Masterful focus on birds as symbols of memory and continuity