SPOTLIGHT ON: MAHESH ANNAPURE 

Trading Stability for Passion 

 

Mahesh Annapure and one of his abstract works (top), Aura, acrylic on canvas

One of the most exciting things that an imagined career in writing promised my younger self all those decades ago was the road it would open to meet absolute strangers who would surprise me with some shared interest. True to the promise of that dream, my writing career, indeed, brought me to the doorsteps of people who I had not known before entering their lives and came richer with experiences after, perhaps, just one interview. Some of them have gone on to become friends, while quite a few are unfortunately forgotten, but the charm of building acquaintanceship with strangers has not worn off at all.

It was this deep-set emotion that a new acquaintance recently dredged out of my memory. That’s Nanded-based artist Mahesh Annapure, who I have got introduced to recently through his art. A multifaceted artist, he has given up stability in life to pursue his passion of painting, as he reveals in the interview that I had the pleasure of conducting with him recently — a postgraduate in life sciences, he served as a lecturer in a college before giving it up to pursue painting. A practical artist, even as he trades stability and financial security for his passion, he knows what he must paint for his soul and what he must paint to sell; he is also unabashed about admitting the same.

A much-awarded artist, Annapure has been honoured with the Government of Maharashtra’s Guru Ravidas award, Raja Ravi Verma award, M. F. Hussain award and Indian Art Factory award, among others. He has held several exhibitions at prestigious centres, such as India Habitat Centre and Maharashtra Kendra, New Delhi; Free Press House Gallery, Nehru Centre Worli, Art Plaza at Kala Ghoda in Mumbai; the Base Studio Gallery in Pune; CAPART in Ahmedabad; Hotel Rama International in Aurangabad; and Kala Mandir at Nanded.

Annapure’s next exhibition gets inaugurated at The Leela art gallery in Mumbai on September 9, and will be on view through September 15.

Below are excerpts from the interview where the artist shares almost everything about his passion for art.

Q1. Could you tell me about your journey into the world of painting? What/ Who was your inspiration?

I’ve been painting since I was very young, a passion inherited from my family’s deep-rooted love for art. Initially, my early works were deeply personal, reflecting my inner world, my work was focused on my own life experiences, but as I matured, I began to see the world with clearer eyes, and my art evolved into a powerful expression of empathy. The emotions and struggles of others became my primary inspiration. As I grew older, my interest in painting flourished, inspired by the masterpieces of the world’s greatest artists. This new perspective led me to shift my focus, and I started capturing the pain and suffering of the people around me in my art. Through my paintings, I aim to give voice to the voiceless and shed light on the often overlooked hardships of those around me.

Elysium Moonshine, acrylic on canvas

Q2. How was your family’s reaction to your decision to be an artist? Could you share the challenges you faced in this journey?

Choosing a career as an artist was challenging due to limited opportunities, and my family was against it, pushing me towards a more stable path. To ensure survival, I pursued a post-graduate degree in life sciences and spent 10 years working as a college lecturer. Despite the stability, I felt unfulfilled, with a deep yearning to express myself through art. Eventually, I decided to follow my inner calling and resigned from my job to dedicate myself to painting. The transition was difficult, and I faced severe financial struggles, even enduring hunger for years. However, my passion for art never wavered. Through perseverance, the struggles I faced became the foundation of my unique style, turning my pain into a powerful source of inspiration.

Entering the art field as a newcomer is challenging, with opportunities being scarce and few willing to give you a chance. However, through persistence and hard work, I gradually carved out a place for myself in the art world. I gained recognition. The hardships I endured were transformative, fueling my creative evolution. Today, my work is not just an expression of my journey, but a testament to the resilience and enduring power of art.

Q3. Who are the artists that you admire and feel inspired by? Can you share what is it about their works that appeals the most to you? 

Although I had studied the works of many great masters, I found myself deeply inspired by M.F. Husain. His unique style—marked by bold line work, dynamic brushstrokes, and innovative color combinations—captivated me. I was particularly drawn to his patchwork technique, which seamlessly blends different elements into a cohesive whole. His ability to express profound thoughts and emotions through his art resonated with me on a personal level. Many of his paintings reflected the very emotions and experiences I observed in my surroundings and the world at large. Even today, I find myself continually drawn to his patchwork technique; it remains a powerful influence on my own artistic journey, a skill I aspire to master in my work. 

Whispers, acyrlic on canvas 

Q4. You paint across genres and across different themes. Which of these is your favorite?

It’s true that I don’t limit myself to a single genre or theme in my work; I paint across various styles and subjects. However, my true passion lies in conceptual art, which speaks directly to my heart. Through conceptual painting, I can convey my thoughts with powerful clarity, allowing me to express complex emotions and ideas in a way that feels deeply authentic. This form of art is where I feel most connected to my inner self, and it serves as the purest outlet for my creativity.

Yet, I must admit that for practical reasons, I’ve had to explore other types of painting, such as landscapes and more traditional subjects, to sustain myself financially. While these works help provide for my basic needs, they don't carry the same emotional weight for me. My soul is intrinsically tied to conceptual art, where I find true fulfillment and the freedom to explore the depths of my thoughts and feelings.

Q5. Any style of painting or medium that you have not tried so far that you would like to try in future? 

I’ve experimented with various mediums, including watercolor, acrylic, and oil paints, but I find myself most comfortable working with acrylics. The majority of my portfolio features acrylics, with only a few pieces in watercolor. As for other mediums like charcoal, pencil, and pastels, they don’t quite align with my style. Each medium has its own unique properties, and I’ve discovered that acrylics best suit the way I express myself artistically. I’m confident in continuing to use them as my primary medium. I don’t foresee the need to explore any other mediums in the future.

Rusticity, acrylic on canvas

Q6. Where do you see yourself as an artist five years from now?

As an artist, I am determined to establish my place with a distinct and authentic identity. Looking ahead, in five years, I aspire to be recognized as a notable figure in the art world, standing among the contemporary masters. My goal is not just to create art but to leave a lasting impact, ensuring that my work resonates and earns a place in the legacy of modern art.

Q7. What would be your advice to the younger generation of artists given the fierce competition in the world today?

It’s crucial to understand the concept that ‘art doesn’t sell, the artist sells’. To succeed, you must create artwork that reflects your unique vision and also builds your personal identity.

Radha Krishna, acrylic on canvas

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