A different approach to painting sets apart the late legend’s son

Owais Husain’s recent body of concept and multimedia works that blended art, music and poetry were presented at Mumbai-based Tao Art Gallery last year. The series, entitled ‘3 Worlds’, received critical acclaim. For it, he explored different levels of existence divided into three segment; namely Heart, Mind and Spirit, which implied that each of us was essentially a storyteller.

The motifs and the iconography in his paintings and charcoal drawings on paper suggested that the heart never really belonged to one. The installations of three life-size Siberian tigers’ replicas, limestone rocks from the Syrian deserts and acrylic sheets signified the fragility of life and the living beings. A unique multimedia blend comprised beds in the centre each carrying a pillow book of poetry, symbolizing the seven stages of love.

This was his first solo in Mumbai after a gap of almost 10 years. Renowned galleriest Dadiba Pundole had mentioned: "He does not carry the baggage of being an illustrated father's son.” He knows better as the Pundole had showcased many of his father’s works. Comparing the two, the expert noted: “He (Owais) has a different approach to painting. It’ more intense in a sense, and tends to be autobiographical in nature. This makes it difficult to get into the work to some degree. However, the element of the narrative is strong."Owais Husain's show is entitled ‘Three Worlds’.

Describing how ‘the exiled artist's son is staying true to his name, an AFP report stated: “In a room in the basement of the gallery, the walls are scrawled with messages. In the centre, two beds are covered with balls of red wool, as music -- also his own composition -- floats through loud speakers.

The influence of his father can be seen, as he admits to being ‘fascinated by the imagery of the (human) figure’. The 94-year-old, once described as "the pioneer of post-Independence Indian modern art", gave up his Indian citizenship earlier this year. Owais Husain seems reluctant to talk about his father, saying only that he advised him against embarking on a career as a painter.”