MINIMALISTIC HORSES

Sonavane, born in the Jalgaon district of Mahrashtra, is known for his animations, as much as for his art. Having first studied art at the Government School of Art, Aurangabad, he completed his B.F.A. from the Sir J.J Institute of Applied Arts- Mumbai. He then joined the animation Section of the Film Division. Even there, he couldn’t suppress his creative instincts, and every year, decorated the venue of the biannual International Festival of Documentaries and Short Films with his ink and pen portraits. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, New Delhi awarded him for these portraits in 1991. He was also awarded for Creative Contribution at the 38th National Film Festival by the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

Sonavane debuted as a painter in April 1992 with his exhibition at Mumbai’s Jehangir Art Gallery. He has won many awards for his socially oriented artwork from the Ministry of Human Resource Development, World Congress of Cardiology and the Ministry of Welfare.

Sonavane says, “The colors I used hark back to Renaissance era and are evocative, as they are sensuous. I play with the use of light on the canvas.” He manipulates textures to an extent, where they appear quite diffused.

“I am not just a painter, but even an animator. I like doing animations. I don’t find any conflict in doing jobs – animations creative painting. I believe that animations also require some skill. But in my art studio, I am a different person. Why, the instruments needed are also different.”