MALLAH Series of Drawings and Paintings

The present series, mostly oil on canvases and pen & ink is reflection of my cherished memories as a “Mallah”, that’s what I proudly call myself.  Pain, sweat, tears, empty stomach, lost smile and few happy moments are the ingredients of my childhood.  I always show the fish or the “Matsya Kanya” in relation with the “Mallah” who tries to catch her.  Scenes of catching the fish or “Matsya” by net and the sexual vibrancy of the entire journey is my point of interest.  The Fisherman is shown here body, without any clothes, only wearing a small dhoti.  Well that’s what they can manage to wear after working so hard throughout the year and making a livelihood by selling fishes.  The beautiful Matsya lady with her enticing nudity and charm is  trying to captivate her hunter or the fisherman.  The fisherman sometimes become one with the fish, the wide blue river plays the role of the beholder of this entire romanticism.  Elements of love, fear, joy needs to be felt by the viewer of the works.  My inspiration is nature in its most raw and intimidating form.  Finally it’s a journey of man through the eyes of nature.    

Artist H.S.Raza appreciate with my work from Lalit kala academy New Delhi