“Think in a broader frame”

As an artist,Dodiya’s works reflect diverse traditions in painting. He quotes images from the media and pays tribute to the works of other painters. He also quotes incidents in national history,political events and weaves in autobiographical narratives into his work.

At the workshop,Dodiya encouraged young artists to follow their heart and style in painting and develop their own sensibilities. “Technique can be taught,but art happens and comes from within. I learned a lot by seeing other artists’ works and the world around me,” says Dodiya.

His work was presented as part of a slide show at the Akademi and students were excited by his vast knowledge of the history of Western art,Indian mythology,folklore and popular culture.

Sharing his inspiration,techniques and influences,with both students and artists at the recently-concluded workshop,Dodiya observed that art has now become a career for many and has a strong commercial angle to it. “Many artists now paint according to the prevailing trend and know what investors are interested in. As for the viewers,people want entertainment in art too,” says Dodiya,pointing out that he has never succumbed to market pressures or buyers and has endeavoured to constantly evolve his style.

For students and budding artists,Dodiya has one suggestion — to think in a broader time frame and to be patient to make work that creates an impact. “Don’t be repetitive,be open to ideas,suggestions and broaden your horizon,” says Dodiya,who meticulously plans his work. “Sometimes I have as many as 27 series in my mind and at any given time,I work together on at least four. All evocative,different styles. I’m trained in conventional oil painting,but I do work in different mediums,” says Dodiya,who has worked in oils,watercolours and even painted on shop shutters.