Sidharth, a painter, a sculptor, an author, a documentary filmmaker par excellence. His artistic journey has been marked by diverse exploration and recognition throughout the decades. From his early years as a signboard painter in his hometown to his extensive travels and experimentation with various mediums, Sidharth’s artistic career has been characterized by continuous growth and creativity.

Early Years and Education:

In 1969, while still attending school, Sidharth began working as a signboard painter in Punjab. During this time, he had the opportunity to learn the Thangka painting technique from Tibetan Lamas in Dharamshala, further expanding his artistic repertoire.

Sidharth pursued a five-year diploma in painting at the College of Art in Chandigarh from 1976 to 1981. During his college years, he joined the art group called ‘Solids’ and exhibited his ‘White Space’ series. In 1979, his exceptional talent was acknowledged when he received the prestigious ‘Punjab Lalit Kala Academy Award’ for his painting titled ‘White Space.’

Exploration and Recognition:

Sidharth’s artistic journey took a new direction in 1981 when he received the ‘Punjab Lalit Kala Academy Award’ for the third consecutive time. Eager to explore new artistic horizons, he embarked on a journey through rural Punjab, where he studied folk motifs through sketches and photography. The inspiration he gathered from this experience became the foundation for his paintings, which were later acquired by the Government Museum and Art Gallery in Chandigarh.

During this period, Sidharth actively participated in art camps and received commissions to paint portraits of soldiers and war scenes for the ‘Sapper’s Museum’ in Roorkee, U.P. Additionally, he delved into filmmaking, creating a short film on Sitadevi, a Madhubani painter, and also took on the task of designing a house in Ghaziabad, near Delhi.

Exploration and Experimentation:

From 1985 to 1990, Sidharth’s artistic endeavors led him to work on a series of paintings titled ‘Mela’ (The Fair), employing the medium of acrylic on canvas. He showcased his unique style and versatility in his first solo exhibition called ‘Self Clowns’ at Triveni Gallery in New Delhi, featuring pencil and oil drawings on paper.

Throughout this period, Sidharth traveled extensively across India, creating films that explored ancient Indian temple architecture, sculpture, and paintings. He further expanded his artistic horizons by experimenting with various mediums such as papier-mache, crafting fascinating pieces titled ‘Heads.’

Continued Journey and Recent Years:

In the 1990s, Sidharth actively participated in group shows and organized exhibitions, paying tribute to renowned artists like Vincent van Gogh. Series like ‘Hop-scotch’ and ‘Ball of Rags’ showcased his proficiency in oils, tempera, and installations. Sidharth’s unique expressions earned him solo exhibitions in galleries across India and Sweden, solidifying his presence in the Indian art scene.

As the years progressed, Sidharth remained dedicated to his craft, participating in numerous group shows, art camps, and exhibitions both in India and abroad. He continued to explore new themes, mediums, and techniques, including watercolors, gouache, and egg tempera. Collaborating with various galleries, organizations, and fellow artists, Sidharth contributed to social causes while showcasing his artistic brilliance. Sidharth’s artistic journey spans several decades and encompasses a wide range of mediums and themes. His unwavering dedication, continuous exploration, and contribution to the art world have made him a prominent figure in Indian art. With each new endeavor, Sidharth’s creativity and passion continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.