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I like to pen down some of my thoughts about Avni Kant, one of my chit-chat friends when I was working in National School of Drama. I used to go to him in lunch hours and talk all about art and other things especially, the young generation of artists. he was always worried about the shortcuts that new generation of artists take; to do an exhibition, he once told me that artist should work on his skills and develop a kind of approach for creative zeal. His concern was that the young generation of artists are in a hurry to exhibit and showcase their works without knowing the meaning of what they are doing and what will be its outcome in near future. Awani was amongst the artists who are scuttle and is very calm in his approach towards art and its practices.
Awani Kant is a notable and visionary artist in Indian modern and contemporary art. His artistic style was shaped by his diverse experiences, especially the seven years he spent in Greece. There, he immersed himself in studying Byzantine and Greek folk arts, which greatly influenced his creative direction. This exposure to international art forms allowed Kant to move beyond traditional Indian art and explore new techniques and ideas. Kant's work often features non-figurative methods and folk motifs, showcasing his innovative spirit. By blending academic knowledge with a bold, unconventional approach, he created art that challenged the norms of traditional painting. Rather than simple following established practices, he questioned the redefined the very essence of art itself. His ability to combine these different influences and experiment with various artistic mediums set him apart as a unique voice in the art world. Awani Kant's work continues to inspire, marking him as a significant figure in shaping the future of Indian art. Awani Kant often spoke about Ravi Shankar Raval, an earlier contemporary artist from Gujarat, who had a significant influence on his work. Raval helped him understand the deeper aspects of art and its meaning. Awani pursued his art education at Shantiniketan and later at M.S. University, Baroda. He was one of the few artists of his time who blended both traditional and modern approaches in his art. His work was also shaped by his time in Europe, especially his experiences in Greece.
Awani Kant's art was always thoughtful, with many questions about society and life guiding his works. He had a sharp understanding of the world around him, and his helped him challenge social norms through his art. He was not afraid to explore difficult or controversial themes, such as eroticism and the raw human condition. This willingness to push boundaries made his work stand out, but it also brought both admiration and criticism from audiences in India. His unique style was shaped by his deep curiosity and a desire to understand different aspects of life and art. By blending his Indian roots with European influences, Awani created a body of work that was both reflective and bold. His ability to combine traditional art forms with modern, sometimes provocative, ideas made him a standout figure in the Indian art world. Awani Kant's work continues to inspire artists today, as he remains a key figure in Modern Indian Art, constantly challenging the way people think about art and society.
Awani Kant remains a trail-blazing figure in Indian modern and contemporary art. his time in Greece, along with his deep study of Byzantine and Greek folk art, broadened his artistic vision and allowed him to push the boundaries of traditional Indian art. His bold, unconventional approach continues to inspire new generations of artists, and his contributions have left a lasting impact on the evolution of Indian art, solidifying his legacy as a visionary artist. Awani Kant is no longer with us but his presence is always being felt through his works. I always miss him.
Note: Exhibition "In Soft Strokes", Art Konsult, 15-30 October 2024||Artwork: Pallavan Woman by Awani Kant, Plaster, 16 X 7 inches||Photographer: Rahul Chaudhury