MUMBAI.- In this solo exhibition Avinash Godbole is showcasing a body of 30 works, inspired by his own recovery from a stroke that left him crippled 11 years ago, and the gradual re-picking up of the brush one hand at a time. These paintings cover diverse subjects ranging from sexuality to philosophy, explorations of the human mind and resurgence from pain. What binds them together is the presence of emotions; whether it be the musician singing a soulful song or a human head - each conveys passion. The choice of colours is bold and the strokes strong and unwavering. Together they create paintings that not only move the viewer but stun with their intensity.

Godbole’s technique is expressive but his subjects introspective, as he deals with deep existentialist questions. Another recurrent subject is that of sexuality and how we human beings deal with or rather shuns it.

Three years ago, Godbole created a series of 25 paintings describing his tryst with stroke. He was also invited to exhibit his paintings at the World Stroke Association's conference in Brazil last year. Hope is the message he wishes to convey to stroke patients and their families. This exhibition is a continuation and tangential progression to that theme.

Avinash Godbole graduated from the Sir J. J. School of Arts, Mumbai, in 1966. He taught in the same institute before working as a creative director in some of the top agencies across the country. All along his forte was and continues to be his illustrations. His work has been part of magazines and newspapers for over 30 years. He was inducted to the Commercial Artists Guild (CAG) Hall of fame in the year 1999.

Godbole, though actively involved in advertising, always had painting as his first love. He continued to paint all along, through his hectic schedule. He has been showing his work regularly in galleries in Mumbai since 1997.

The artist lives and works in Mumbai. He can be contacted at: +91 98206 57358 or emailed at ratangodbole@gmail.com