Lord Ganesha, the beloved deity known as the remover of obstacles and the bearer of new beginnings, has been a timeless muse for artists across generations. In contemporary art, his presence continues to inspire and captivate, reflecting a rich blend of tradition and modernity. From abstract interpretations to bold, vibrant expressions, today’s artists reimagine Ganesha’s form in unique ways, creating a diverse tapestry of styles and emotions
- Ganesh by Thota Laxminarayana
Artist Thota Laxminarayan blends traditional Indian folk art with contemporary flair in his work, creating visual challenges that modernize rural idioms while preserving their essence. His figures, rendered with an economy of lines, are vibrant yet subtly coordinated. In “Ganesh,” Laxminarayan presents the elephant god amidst blooming flowers and birds, with his vahana, the mouse Mooshik, adding divine charm. This acrylic on canvas beautifully captures Ganesha’s strength and serenity in a vibrant yet harmonious composition.
2. Visit To Goa by Mohit Bhardwaj
This painting by Mohit Bhardwaj draws inspiration from the joy of childhood adventures, where kids explore new places with their gadgets, embracing a world full of colour and excitement. The artwork features a dynamic, multi-coloured background that mirrors the vividness of youthful curiosity and exploration. The painting seamlessly blends Ganesha’s divine presence with the lively energy of a colourful, explorative life, creating a unique and joyful representation of the beloved deity.
3. Venerate by Arvind Kumar Dubey
“Venerate” is a hand-painted acrylic on canvas that pays tribute to Lord Ganesha, featuring an elephant, peacock feathers, and intricate patterns. Set against the spiritual backdrop of Varanasi, it captures scenes of the Ganga river, boats, umbrellas, and temples in a harmonious composition. Created by an artist who graduated from Delhi College of Art in 2010, and has since participated in various exhibitions, including the 2020 Art Residency at Art Penza Gallery, Russia.
4. Vinayaka by Shweta Rukme
For Shweta, the path to becoming an artist began not with formal education, but with a deep, inner calling. At 14, she sketched her first image of Lord Ganesha, realizing that art was more than just a hobby—it was her true passion. Despite graduating in business management and working in the corporate world, her heart always belonged to art. Without formal training, she honed her skills with relentless passion and dedication, transforming from an amateur to a professional. Her artwork, “3D Ganesha,” reflects this journey, blending traditional devotion with a modern perspective, capturing the deity’s essence in a striking three-dimensional form.
5. Naturescape-Ganesha by Prashant K Sarkar
Prashant K. Sarkar’s “Naturescape-Ganesha” is a unique reflection of imagination and creativity. Reminiscent of childhood days spent finding shapes in the clouds, Prashant found inspiration in the landscape around him. Despite the urban environment with its limited open spaces, he envisioned and created this captivating piece, blending nature with the divine form of Ganesha. As a painter, sculptor, and mentor with a BFA from the College of Art, New Delhi, and training in Art Appreciation from the National Museum, Prashant’s work reflects his deep artistic insight and passion for finding beauty in the unexpected.
Contemporary Ganesha paintings are more than just artistic expressions; they are visual narratives that merge tradition with innovation. These artworks reflect the diverse interpretations and creative liberties artists take to depict Ganesha, each bringing their style and cultural background to the canvas. Whether you are a seasoned collector or someone new to the world of art, these contemporary Ganesha paintings provide a unique opportunity to experience the deity’s timeless presence through the eyes of today’s artists. Each piece invites us to celebrate the fusion of the old and the new, the sacred and the contemporary, and the enduring appeal of Ganesha in modern art.