Exploring Identity Through Art: Sureel Kumar's Journey
The Quest for Self-Understanding
Artist Sureel Kumar begins his reflections with a contemplative tone, stating, “Yeah, artwork… Who Am I… yes?” His pause is not due to uncertainty but a deep respect for a question he has pondered for years. “I believe this is the most crucial question,” he articulates, his words resonating like a mantra. “If I lack self-awareness, how can I understand others or the world around me? It makes no sense.”
Art as a Reflection of Self
This profound inquiry serves as the foundation of Sureel’s artistic expression, showcased in his recent solo exhibition titled Who Am I. His collection of wooden mosaic artworks tells stories, with each color sparking new thoughts and shapes forming a realm of self-exploration and wonder.
A Personal and Universal Journey
Curated by Professor Dr. Tirthankar Bhattacharya, the exhibition represented a significant milestone in Sureel’s artistic path, blending personal significance with universal themes. “The question first emerged in 2017. Initially, I toyed with it, but its presence has only intensified since then,” he shares.
Dreams as a Source of Inspiration
When asked how the question of identity manifests in his art, Sureel smiles and reveals, “It’s like… I receive ideas in my dreams.” He describes how sometimes he wakes up with poetic lines or flashes of design that compel him to jot them down. “In the quiet hours between sleep and morning, my inspiration takes shape. I revisit my notes, and that’s when creativity ignites, blending emotions and logic to form the artwork.”
The Allure of Wood
Sureel’s choice of wood as a medium was not a product of formal training but rather a result of life’s unexpected turns. “I’ve sketched since childhood and experimented with various paints, but something felt amiss,” he recalls. A transformative experience with friends crafting wooden sculptures led him to discover his passion. “I created a small piece and was captivated by the wood’s scent, texture, and grains. I knew this was my calling.” This revelation occurred nearly twenty years ago.
A Mosaic of Personal Inquiry
The exhibition showcased 88 pieces, each representing a personal exploration of his identity. “Even during times when my work wasn’t selling, I continued to create. Over the past 12 years, I’ve produced more than 300 pieces. I feared that if I stopped, my ideas would cease as well.”
The Observer Within
Sureel’s creative process is profoundly introspective and spiritual, transcending religious boundaries. “I observe my thoughts, emotions, and physical reactions in various situations and interactions, pondering—who is the observer?” he reflects. “There exists a part of me that simply watches without judgment, whether it’s sadness or joy.”
Art as a Personal Canvas
This observer, this intangible essence, fuels the essence of Who Am I. “With each artwork, I gain clarity. I come to understand what I am not, and things become clearer.” He even incorporates his art into his appearance, stating, “My face has become my canvas,” referring to the unique facial styling he has adopted as part of his self-exploration. “When someone sees me and wonders, ‘Who is this person?’ their reactions bring me back to my inquiry—yes, who am I?”
Chandigarh and Future Aspirations
“Chandigarh holds a special place in my heart,” he expresses warmly. “The residents are educated and appreciate art.” However, he notes that as more artists share their narratives, the local art scene will evolve. After receiving acclaim for his work in Vienna, Austria, where he spent a significant part of his life, Sureel is now looking to cities like Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Mumbai for future solo exhibitions.