‘I spent six years just repeating dots and lines’: the great painter Arpita Singh on a lifetime in art | Art

Exploring Arpita Singh’s Artistic Influences

Arpita Singh’s exhibition at the Serpentine in London marks a pivotal moment as it highlights the influence of European modernists on her work. Her early exposure to the likes of Der Blaue Reiter and Kandinsky has significantly shaped her artistic vocabulary. Singh’s incorporation of textual elements and vibrant, discordant canvases offers a visual dialogue between eastern and western art traditions.

European Modernism’s Impact

The late 1950s brought Singh’s Diploma in Fine Arts from Delhi Polytechnic, during which she studied under modernist icons Biren De and Sailoz Mookherjea. Her fascination for Paul Klee and his formative writings remained influential, as seen in her work showcased at the Serpentine. The opportunity to witness Klee’s original paintings in Switzerland was a transformative experience, reinforcing this admiration.

Evolution of Artistic Style

Throughout her career, Singh has transitioned from Dalit social realism to abstractions. Her tenure at the Weavers’ Service Centre in the 1960s revealed an experimental phase, blending Chagall-like and surrealist elements. By shifting focus to fundamental elements like dots and lines during a period of introspection, Singh embraced a unique blend of abstraction and figuration.

The Sociopolitical Canvas

During the 1980s, Singh’s work began to reflect the sociopolitical struggles in India, symbolized by motifs like military figures. However, as fellow artist Atul Dodiya observes, despite appearing whimsical, her art echoes profound experiences. Singh’s choice to depict both genders as equals, rather than power symbols, adds layers of depth to her narrative.

The Depths of Visual Drama

Singh’s paintings are animated by diverse influences, ranging from newspaper articles to theatrical elements, all integrated with apparent ease. She describes her work as being painted by the paintings themselves, emphasizing her laissez-faire approach to creativity. This comprehensive vision is not tied to the dogmas of groups like the Bombay Progressive Artists’ Group.

Artistic Legacy and Recognition

Singh’s legacy is not only marked by her distinct style but also by her avoidance of media spotlight, preserving her artistic freedoms. Nilima Sheikh, a fellow visionary, recognizes Singh’s unique visual perspective. Her installation at Serpentine North is a testament to her enduring influence in the world of contemporary art.

Future Artistic Trends

Looking ahead, the blend of traditional and contemporary influences as exemplified by Singh’s work, suggests future trends in global art might continue to embrace such cultural hybridity. Artists are increasingly seeking to meld historical narratives with modern techniques, engaging audiences in multi-layered storytelling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can Singh’s career teach aspiring artists?

Her career emphasizes the importance of artistic experimentation and the value of maintaining creative autonomy. It also illustrates how diverse cultural influences can enrich artistic expression.

How is Singh’s work relevant to current artists?

Current artists can draw inspiration from Singh’s approach to integrating socio-political narrative with abstract art forms, allowing for a more nuanced artistic expression.

Engage with Art

Are you intrigued by the intersection of culture and art? Explore Arpita Singh’s exhibition at the Serpentine North gallery, or delve deeper into the world of modern art by subscribing to our newsletter for more insights and expert analyses.