We live in times of strange contradictions. Even as means and mediums of artistic expression are burgeoning in numbers, artists everywhere are being compelled to school themselves to more painfully constricting guidelines on rectitude. A new breed of artists though is dodging it all—and bravely so. They are the ones taking Instagram by storm as they showcase bold new concepts fearlessly, post after post, to a live worldwide audience 24/7. We got the fiery warrior Santanu Hazarika to share with us his ammunition.
Santanu Hazarika: A self-taught artist, Hazarika used to make artworks for local bands in Assam. In his teens, an impulsive grab at sanity made him sign up for mechanical engineering (he even worked part-time in a locomotive diesel shed), but he quit college in the fourth year to participate in the Red Bull World Doodle Art Championship in Cape Town. Of course, he won it. Not that his parents approved when Santanu decided to become a full-time artist.
Can’t have enough of: Detail. Detail. And more detail.
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Style: Illustrations inspired by Japanese anime, pop culture and themes relating to Hindu mythology.
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Wicked skills, if any: Live doodling and designing customised sneakers.
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Stalking right now: “James Jean—I love the intimate details and vibrant colours in his works. Kim Jung Gi for his ability to draw the most kinetic and diverse chaotic scenes. And Takashi Murakami—he is the pop genius of our time. From food to sneakers to hip hop music, Murakami is everywhere!
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That one crazy art story: “While in an art camp in Kumbh Mela, I got stuck in a storm that ended up destroying my paintings. It took me a month to restore them and re-do portions. Though the process was tiring and painstaking, eventually these works were exhibited in a prestigious exhibition at the IGNCA in Delhi.”
Portfolio swag: Red Bull International, Adidas Originals, NDTV, Ministry of Culture, Zoomcar and hip-hop artists Raftaar, Divine and Ritviz.
