Most of us growing up have heard about how more than half the species currently occupying earth will go extinct by 2100. The current epoch popularly termed Anthropocene, in many ways articulates the negative human impact on earth’s ecology.
It problematizes the issues of land use, human encroachment, excessive dependency on fossil fuels, and so on within the larger context of negative human impact. Artists have been responding to these challenges through various research-based practices, where the said research becomes the artwork in many cases.
Manisha Agrawal’s works in this regard take a different route. Her extensive research takes the form of intricately rendered details of the negative human impact on the fauna around us.
The visuals take center stage in her work. The tiger inside a jar, triggers a sense of urgency with which conservation and preservation strategies need to be adapted as well as adopted. With the portrayal of familiar objects, within indisputable situations, Agrawal’s works take the form of an instrument of ecological awareness.
The relationship between mankind and nature is multifaceted. In our society, birds and animals are not only viewed as divine vahanas of various gods and goddesses but are also considered auspicious. Nonetheless, it is a reality that we continue to destroy the precious lives and habitats of these creatures that we hold in such high regard. Through the use of allegorical elements and visual narrative tools, my works serve as instruments for ecological awareness.
My extensive research leads me to intricately rendered details of the negative human impact on bird and animal life. In my paintings, I strive to illuminate the fact that many species are facing habitat destruction and are slowly inching toward extinction. I empathize with the sensations of these creatures and attempt to portray them in a contemporary language, utilizing both realistic and miniature styles.
My paintings bear titles such as “Environmental Disaster,” “Endangered Animals,” and “Flowers Going to Die,” in which I depict forests being transformed into concrete jungles and the atmosphere severely affected by human activity. The “Flowers Going to Die” series is based on a research study of approximately 3000 flower species that have gradually become extinct, which my generation has not had the opportunity to witness.
In order to preserve memories of the flowers that I encounter in my daily life, I have illustrated them on paper for future generations to behold. These compelling compositions are devoid of decoration or any other background elements, with the species presented in stark focus.
My works place the visual elements at the forefront, showcasing majestic jungle beasts, birds, and humble cattle beings suspended in bottles and preservations. I firmly believe that preservation strategies should be both adapted and adopted in order to ensure the continued existence of these precious creatures.