Rameshwar Broota’s intriguing metamorphosis photographer

Veteran artist Rameshwar Broota’s new series of photographic works will be on display at Vadehra Art Gallery, Delhi (March 6 until March 31). Over 20 large size recent photo image series by him, entitled ‘Open Enclosures’ was earlier showcased at Shridharani Gallery, Triveni Kala Sangam from February 12, 2011 till February 21.

The intricately textured photographs by the artist-filmmaker carry the minutest of detail. Their scale is much larger than his other images. The exhibit is earthier in nature this time,” according to the artist, implying that there are more open spaces and a less number of objects with emphasis on detailing, as in his paintings.

For example, a seven-feet long image of a dried up river bed that he captured in Himachal is comprised of a landscape - barren yet stunning sans human element. The satire with which he has framed a donkey and a tractor in it captures your attention. Both seem cut off from the landscape that they belong to.

Construction overdrive in his favorite vistas of Himachal has apparently inspired some works. A top angle photo of a mountain side is photographed cluttered with houses. The fine detailing seems very much like a miniature work of art. Another photo image ‘Where Does The Ganga Flow’ is of a chaotically developed Haridwar. The top angle shot again shows his knack of capturing both the hidden story and the overt subject. Another evocative photograph is ‘What Lies Beneath’.

Known for his strong masculine forms - actually intricate monumental drawings – Rameshwar Broota now infuses his photographs with a similar sensibility, albeit with a twist. The human forms like the diptych ‘No Dog, No Elephant, No Mouse’. A half-covered faceless human body in it dreams away even as a plane takes off , and another one depicting a human figure that looms large over a cluttered city (incidentally, Greece) are well juxtaposed with aerial shots. His metamorphosis into a photographer is indeed intriguing.