Famous city artist Shrikant Kolhe passed away in Nagpur on Sunday due to kidney failure, at the age of 51.
The Nagpur-born artist, who was on dialysis, suddenly took ill and passed away. “It is a huge loss for us. I have seen his journey as an artist and really admire his work. He had the unique quality of provoking one’s thoughts through his art,” said Avani Rao Gandra, a city-based artist and his close friend.
After completing his education in Art from the Chitrakala Mahavidyalaya, Nagpur, Shrikant moved to Hyderabad in 1991. “We were batch mates in college and moved to the city together. We lived together for the first 2-3 years here. Even though we were busy making our careers, we would find time to paint,” recalls Sachin Jaltare, a well-known city artist. He adds, “he always wanted to become a painter and was very good with water colours in particular. I like all his paintings.”
Shrikant held many art shows and won several awards. The play of light, The chair you occupy and Rubik’s cube are some of his paintings. He was also a part of Deccan Chronicle’s platinum art exhibition.
In most of his works, the observer is allowed to draw his/her own conclusions. “His art has a modern and intellectual touch to it, which makes the audience involved,” says Ramakanth Thumrugoti, another city based artist.
“We were family friends and made it a point to meet regularly. He was a lively soul and loved what he did. I have lost a very dear friend,” says Sanjay Ashtaputre, a city-based artist.
