panchabhuta

Vendor Biography

The concept of ‘Panchabhuta‘ or ‘Five Elements’ is a profound ancient idea originating from the East. It seeks to provide insight into the transient nature of our existence within the vast universe. This concept elegantly categorizes all forms of existence, whether living or non-living, into five fundamental elements – Earth (Prithvi), Water (Jal), Fire (Tejas), Air (Vayu), and Space (Akashaa). Delving deep into the essence of these elements has allowed me to grasp their profound impact on shaping and influencing our lives. My artistic endeavors and personal philosophy are deeply rooted in the profound appreciation and utilization of these elemental forces. From sourcing ‘clay’ from the earth to drawing inspiration from the flowing ‘water’ of rivers, the gentle ‘air’ that whispers from the sea, the transformative ‘fire’ emanating from the sun, and the encompassing ‘space’ encapsulated within the pottery I create, each element plays a vital role in my creative process. The interplay of ‘Panchabhuta’ in my life has instilled a sense of cause-and-effect dynamics, guiding me through meticulous planning, artistic exploration through paintings, and ultimately leading me to the intricate art of pottery.

Words of the Artist – Saji Dul

I have always been driven by curiosity. Hence, I believe my life has remained surrounded by, and grounded in, learning. Understanding the chemistry of things, and real-life experimentation.

I earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Calcutta University, followed by a Master’s degree in Biochemistry in 2006 from the same institution.

For nearly a decade, from 2006 to 2015, I dedicated to shifting and upgrading my skills in the field of engineering, working for an EPC Company. In 2015, I made a significant life decision to depart from my engineering career, opting to pursue my passion for artistic endeavours. Once again I began with painting, then started dabbling in sculpting, and eventually started laying out plans to build my pottery and ceramics studio.

This shift marked the beginning of a transformative journey. In 2019, I initiated a new project focused on pottery, ceramics, and kiln-making, delving into the world of artistic expression and craftsmanship. I spent long hours throughout the COVID-initiated lockdown in 2020, perfecting my skills and art. This unique blend of educational background, professional experience, and artistic pursuits shapes my holistic approach to creativity and innovation, which is reflected in all aspects of my life and work.

What I enjoy most is offering a pot of tea to my friends and discussing the joy of making and creating.

Working with children, inculcating an appreciation for nature and creation in them, and helping them gain insights into molding their lives through the simple act of “playing with clay” and molding artifacts, is what keeps me working.

Exhibitions:

Group

• 2007 : Taj Residency, Vadodara, Gujrat

• 2009: Karnataka Chitrakala Parishad, Bangalore

• 2009: Duo Exhibition in Birla Academy of Art and Culture, Kolkata

• 2011: Academy of fine Art , Kolkata

• 2017 : Artigen Art Gallery , New Delhi

• 2017 : Eligency Art gallery , Gurugram

• 2009: Gaganendra Silpa Parisad, Kolkata

• 2010: Gaganendra Silpa Parisad, Kolkata

• 2014: Chitrakut Art Gallery, Kolkata

Workshops:

• 2022: Play with Clay, pottery workshop, Diamond Harbour. 

• 2023: Play with Clay, Ceramics and Pottery Workshop, Diamond Harbour.