Exhibitions

Art Mumbai

14 - 17 November 2024 Read more

RJMF Rewind

Looking back at past awardees from the last 33 years 16 September - 15 October 2024 The Ravi Jain Memorial Foundation Annual Awards

As the art world vibrates with renewed energy amidst global economic challenges, the 33rd Ravi Jain Memorial Foundation Annual Awards for Upcoming Young Artists stands as a beacon of creativity and encouragement. Held annually at Dhoomimal Gallery, this flagship event continues to be a cornerstone in promoting and nurturing emerging artistic talent.

This year we intend to recap our journey through the past 30 years by showcasing some of the artists who have won this prestegious award and have made a impressionable impact



The Exhibition and Awards



Over the year the panel of jury, comprised of esteemed figures such as Anjolie Ela Menon, KS Kulkarni, Krishen Khanna, Niren Sen Gupta, Martand Khosla, Manisha GeraBaswani, Mithu Sen, Pallavi Khandelwal, Ranbir Kaleka among many established and respected names selected artists. Their dedication and focus in creating innovative and experimental works are commendable.



A Vision for the Future



The Ravi Jain Memorial Foundation’s annual awards are more than just an exhibition; they are a platform for aspiring artists to gain recognition and further their careers. The foundation provides four scholarships (on average) each year, supporting artists across various mediums. The jury for these awards has included many art luminaries such as K.S. Kulkarni, Krishen Khanna, and Anjolie Ela Menon.



As we mark the 33rd year of these awards, the foundation remains committed to its mission of promoting and nurturing young talent. Despite the evolving landscape of the art world, the foundation’s work is more relevant than ever. In response to the changing dynamics, we are also developing a digital repository to support and document our efforts, ensuring that the legacy of Shri Ravi Jain endures.



Looking Ahead



The Ravi Jain Memorial Foundation Annual Awards continue to inspire and support the next generation of artists, embodying Shri Ravi Jain’s vision of an ever-evolving and inclusive art community. We are excited to see how this year’s participants will shape the future of contemporary art and look forward to celebrating their achievements at the upcoming exhibition. Read more

Satirical Symphony

a Solo show by A. Rajeswara Rao, Presented by Dhoomimal Gallery and Art Magnum 13 - 18 September 2024 Guided by the strong principles of his father, Paidi Raju—an esteemed senior artist, poet, sculptor, and art guru—Rajeswara Rao’s work is imbued with profound influence and inspiration. His father’s anecdotes and poetry serve as a rich source of learning for younger artists, demonstrating the power of words and actions. Known for his patience and kindness, Paidi Raju’s ethos is reflected in Rao’s personal and professional life. Rao considers it a blessing to be born into such a family, where his two sisters pursued dance. However, Rao aspired to carve his own identity, distinct from his father’s renowned legacy.

A graduate of Andhra University (Class of ‘83), Rao’s journey took a serendipitous turn when a colleague guided him to the newly established Hyderabad Central University. Rao’s hunger to learn and immerse himself in the art world drove him to leave his comfort zone and move to the bustling city of Hyderabad. His early works delved into the themes of life and death, capturing the raw essence of human existence.

For Rao, the mantra “Sit and think” is essential for an artist to realize their subject and path. He believes that attitude significantly contributes to one’s growth and work. Patience, he asserts, is key to stability in any field. In 1995, his marriage to Padma Reddy, an artist herself, marked another major turning point, profoundly influencing his work.

Rao’s keen wit and satirical lens breathe life into a vivid world where the familiar blends seamlessly with the fantastical. His paintings invite us to encounter characters from the silver screen, regal kings, old classmates, and elaborately adorned women. Through his astute observations and reflective distance, Rao creates a rich tapestry of the human experience.

Employing the reverse painting technique on acrylic sheets, Rao adds intriguing perspectives and dimensions to his subjects. Each brushstroke on the transparent surface reveals his mastery, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary. His color palette, a testament to his artistic intuition, sometimes opts for monochrome simplicity, punctuated by sensuous details. The titles of his works often add new dimensions, inviting viewers to engage deeply with his art and occasionally tricking them into seeing beyond the surface.

This solo exhibition invites you to delve into the satirical world of Rajeswara Rao, where humor and critique intertwine, and each piece offers a new lens through which to view society. Witness the harmonious fusion of wit, observation, and technique, as Rao’s work challenges and delights in equal measure. Read more