Sunil Kumar

Lives and works in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India

Artist statement

I consider myself truly fortunate to have been born in the holy city of Varanasi, a place that holds the distinction of being the oldest living city in the world. For over 3,000 years, Varanasi has served as a central hub of civilization, attracting people from all walks of life. It is believed that those who take their last breath in this sacred city are guaranteed salvation, making it a revered place known as "Mahashamshana" or the great cremation ground. At the Manikarnika ghat, people from near and far come to bid their departed loved ones a final farewell. Varanasi's cultural heritage, architectural marvels, and spiritual ambiance continue to inspire and shape my unique art style. As I walk through the streets of this ancient city, I am captivated by the bold architecture that stands as a testament to its rich historical and religious significance. The weathered facades, intricate details, and timeless beauty of the old buildings ignite a passion within me to capture their essence on canvas. I seek not to replicate these subjects but to convey the impressions they evoke within me. The winding streets, the play of light and shadow on the structures, and the interplay between the architecture and its surroundings all inspire my artistic choices. In my artwork, I gravitate towards a monochromatic palette, predominantly using black and white tones. The significance of black lies in its ability to evoke elegance, sophistication, authority, power, and prestige. When...

Artwork