Nagpur Artist Yogesh Adkine Clinches Prestigious State Art Award for 'Untold Story 11'
In a significant achievement for the regional art community, Yogesh Adkine, an artist based in Khaparkheda, Nagpur, has been honored with the award in the professional category at the 65th State Art Exhibition. The prestigious event was held at the iconic Jehangir Art Gallery in Mumbai, where Adkine's painting, titled 'Untold Story 11', stood out among fierce competition.
Second State Award and Artistic Journey
This marks Adkine's second state art award, following his previous recognition in 2019 for printmaking in the same professional category. As an art teacher at Mayo College in Ajmer, Adkine balances his educational duties with a prolific artistic career, having amassed an impressive portfolio of accolades.
He has won four international awards and over 30 state and national honors throughout his journey. Upon receiving the award, Adkine expressed gratitude to his wife, family members, and supporters, acknowledging their unwavering encouragement in his artistic pursuits.
Exhibition Highlights and Selection Process
The 65th State Art Exhibition showcased the vibrant talent across Maharashtra, with more than 1,200 artworks submitted from various regions. From this extensive pool, over 200 works were shortlisted for the final round, making Adkine's selection a notable accomplishment in a highly competitive field.
The award was presented by Kishor Ingle, Maharashtra's director of art, and Him Kumar Chatterjee, vice-chancellor of JJ School of Art Deemed University, adding to the ceremony's prestige.
Concept and Symbolism Behind 'Untold Story 11'
Explaining the depth of his award-winning piece, Adkine described 'Untold Story 11' as a reflection of the silent journey of crops from the Stone Age to the modern era. The painting incorporates symbolic elements that convey profound messages:
- The cotton flower symbolizes the delicate and fragile nature of life, highlighting vulnerability and beauty.
- A stone-like form at the centre represents primitive energy, evoking themes of resilience and ancient origins.
Adkine emphasized that the artwork also addresses contemporary issues, mirroring the growing struggles of farmers due to climate change and environmental imbalance. He noted the challenges of continuing his artistic journey while working as a teacher, underscoring the dedication required to excel in both roles.
This award not only celebrates Adkine's individual talent but also shines a light on the rich artistic heritage of Maharashtra, inspiring aspiring artists across the state.
