Anil Chauhan
Anil Chauhan is a contemporary Indian visual artist and researcher whose practice investigates the psychological and social impact of built environments. A recipient of the prestigious Kala Sakshi Memorial Trust Award, he is recognized for a body of work that explores the paradox of human emotions by using ancient architectural forms as primary metaphors for the internal landscape of the mind. His artistic philosophy suggests that two opposing realities—such as rigidity and vulnerability—can exist simultaneously within the same experience, forming the fundamental truth of modern living.
Central to Chauhan’s work is the belief that architecture serves as a sacred vessel where memories and personal histories are forged. He approaches architectural elements not merely as functional or utility spaces, but as symbolic triggers that connect the viewer to a deep, subconscious essence. By focusing on the “essence” of a space rather than its predetermined meaning, he invites the audience to establish an intuitive connection with his compositions, allowing their own memories to complete the narrative of the work. His visual language often features structural motifs that act as “silent protagonists,” bridging the gap between historical structural forms and contemporary psychological inquiry.
His practice continues to evolve through the exploration of “structural silence,” where the physical weight of architectural imagery is used to balance the fluid complexity of human feeling. Through his ongoing research into the built environment, Chauhan remains a critical voice dedicated to uncovering the profound, unseen connections individuals maintain with the spaces they inhabit.