By Bratin Khan Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
Rooted in nature, Bratin Khan’s art feels both personal and poetic. His first solo exhibition, Mirror of Vision, at Kalakari Art Gallery in Hyderabad, is autobiographical – born out of dreams, memories and lived experiences collected over the years.
“The characters in my work are not mythological,” says the Kolkata-based artist. “They emerge from my dreams and visions.” He points to a 4×4 foot canvas titled Voyage, which depicts a serene boat ride – a reflection of his own travels during his school days in the 1980s. “The Atrai River, which flows near our village Chakviguru in South Dinajpur, was like a guardian. When we suffered losses we cried before it, and when we achieved something we paid homage to it.”
By Bratin Khan Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
The exhibition consists of 26 paintings presented in the tempera style – a traditional technique in which pigments are mixed with a water-soluble binder. Through this method, Bratin creates luminous, layered works that open a window to his inner world. His canvases celebrate life and positivity, depicting vibrant scenes of flora and fauna – lotus and lily ponds, leaves, flowers and human figures adorned with delicate ornaments and light glitter.
“My canvases emerge from a myriad of experiences,” he says. “Many things are taken from moments of my childhood – the light, the river, the rhythm of rural life – they all find their way into my art.”
inspired by music
Bratin Khan Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
As Bratin leads us through the exhibition, he talks fondly about the landscape of his childhood and his fascination with music. He remembers the time of twilight before dawn and “the distinct smell of cool air”. “That hour has a different tune,” he says. “This is the time when unique ragas like Miyan Ki Malhar and Ahir Bhairav were created.” Bratin is a singer himself and often draws inspiration from the rhythms and moods of music.
Interestingly, his artistic journey began not with painting but with sculpture. While a student at Visva Bharati University in Santiniketan, he organized his first show – a sell-out exhibition that allowed him to become financially independent. “I sold my paintings and sculptures to make ends meet,” he recalls.
By Bratin Khan Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
When mold appeared on one of his early paintings, Brattin sought guidance from Mrityunjay Goswami, a disciple of the Abanindranath school of painting. From there, he learned wash techniques and gradually developed his own tempera method, combining it with miniature painting traditions that continued to influence his style.
Each of Brattin’s works is carefully composed rather than spontaneous. “There is nothing accidental on my canvases,” he explains. “Each brushstroke is deliberate – layered to create tone, depth and atmosphere.”
by bratin khan
Brattin, who believes in spirituality, says that his paintings are not mythological depictions but emotional reflections. “Ornate jewelry represents happiness,” he says, smiling. “I want my art to feel positive—to help you dream, to remind you that beauty can still be gentle.”
Brattin Khan’s solo show, Mirror of Vision, is running at Kalakarti Art Gallery until 9 November
published – October 15, 2025 03:08 PM IST