ArtDayMe: Azadeh Jafarian: We want to critique and analyze only one artwork by the Influential  artist Sohan Qadri. 

The single artwork displayed at 1X1 Art Gallery, Untitled" (2005) by Sohan Qadri,offers a profound representation of the artist's spiritual philosophy and his signature style.

Sohan Qadri's "Untitled" reflects his distinctive approach of carving into handmade paper, a meditative process inspired by his spiritual practice. This technique involves precise incisions and layering, creating a textured and tactile surface. The vibrant interplay of red and teal dyes in the artwork illustrates Qadri's mastery over natural pigments, which seem to "breathe" through the paper, as he described.

The artwork's rhythmic vertical patterns evoke a sense of meditative repetition, mirroring the flow of breath or the chanting of mantras. The undulating horizontal line cutting across the vertical patterns may symbolize an energy pathway, potentially referencing the flow of Kundalini or life force in Tantric philosophy. The work's simplicity and depth situate it within the broader context of color field painting , yet it remains deeply rooted in Eastern spirituality.

Qadri's art transcends conventional abstraction by embedding within it a spiritual dimension. This piece invites viewers into a meditative state, allowing them to experience a sense of tranquility and heightened awareness. The repetitive motifs are suggestive of the Tantric practice of yantras—geometric diagrams used for meditation. The interplay of colors and patterns creates an immersive visual field that seems to vibrate with subtle energy, engaging both the mind and spirit.

The organic, undulating forms and rhythmic incisions draw parallels to the natural cycles of life and the cosmos, reflecting Qadri's lifelong engagement with the mystical aspects of existence. The luminous quality of the dyes and the disciplined composition make the work both an aesthetic and spiritual experience.

Sohan Qadri was deeply influenced by his early life as an ascetic and his exposure to Eastern mysticism. His journeys through the Himalayan regions and his practice of Tantric meditation imbued his work with a unique philosophical depth. By adopting a minimalist yet vibrant aesthetic, he positioned himself as a pioneer of spiritual abstraction, blending Indian Tantric traditions with Western minimalist sensibilities.

"Untitled" exemplifies Qadri's role as a bridge between Eastern and Western art traditions. His rejection of representational art and his focus on color and texture align him with global movements like Abstract Expressionism , while his spiritual and philosophical underpinnings remain distinctly Indian. This duality makes his work resonate with audiences worldwide.

Sohan Qadri's "Untitled" is a testament to his vision of art as a meditative and transcendent practice. Through his innovative technique and spiritual focus, he creates a deeply engaging visual and emotional experience. Displayed in the 1X1 Art Gallery, this piece not only celebrates Qadri's legacy but also invites viewers to explore the interplay of color, rhythm, and consciousness—a journey into the mystical dimensions of art.

You can visit Sohan Qadri’s exhibition at 1X1 Art Gallery in Alserkal Avenue till January 31,2025 .