Play of art

As his curiosity was piqued,he began working with circular paper of diameter 3.5 inches. “I found it quite challenging,” he admits,adding,“There is less space to work with and that forces you to concentrate more. This is what makes it a challenging job.” He explains that with rectangular-shaped paper,one can focus at any corner but with circular paper,the focus is at the centre. “One has to work accordingly,keeping that aspect in mind,” he says.

Sutar hasn’t participated in any Ganjifa art competitions and he has his reasons for it. “For me,this is serious art that needs 100 per cent involvement. And that is why I don’t want to be distracted with competitions,” he says. However,his work has been appreciated and he has received a fellowship by the Ministry of Human Resource.

When an art lover approaches Sutar to learn about Ganjifa art,Sutar discusses the subject with them instead of ‘teaching’ them. He says,“I think art is meant to be shared and doesn’t call for teaching or guidance. Thus,I discuss or share my experiences with those who are interested.”

Sutar has exhibited his work in Holland,Delhi,Bengaluru and Mumbai. Currently,his work is on display at the ‘Game of Fortune’ exhibition being held simultaneously at Waves Art Gallery and Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum,till October 31. Sutar is the first artist to exhibit his art at the museum. Talking about this,he says,“I am glad that I am the first person whose art is being exhibited at the museum. My contemporary Ganjifa representation made on hand–cut paper is being displayed alongside antique sets and this is a matter of pride for me.”