Artist Pradosh Swain. Telegraph picture

Bhubaneswar, Feb. 27: Artist Pradosh Swain, who has won many followers over the past few years, has come up with a touching subject — the lost childhood.

The Odia artist, who brings out interesting themes from the life around him, recently held a solo exhibition in New Delhi, which featured a collection of his work on this theme. Swain, who is a pass-out from the BK College of Arts and Crafts, Bhubaneswar, had also done courses in photography and reprography. This has helped him observe objects and situations that are slowly fading away from life, feels the painter.

“I have always tried to dive into the recent past and analyse what the human race is losing. Most of my art series are based on these observations which comes easily to me because of my association with photography,” said Swain.

After his series on global warming and the transformation of communication, which received rave response from art lovers, the artist’s latest venture into his childhood can be expected to catch the eye of the art collectors.

“In my recent exhibition, which concluded last week in New Delhi, I showcased paintings that revolved around the beauty of growing up that is missing in today’s childhood. Therefore, I tried to represent the theme in the four seasons when a child plays with certain objects. All of these symbols stand for the joy that is not visible in children today, who are forced to be matured even at a young age,” Swain said.

The artist used metal clock dials in his four-piece mixed media creation in which the acrylic paintings defined a child chasing paper toys — a kite in summer, a boat during monsoon, a rocket in winter and a wind wheel in spring.

“At the exhibition, my works received good response. Renowned art critic Keshav Mallik also showed appreciation for my work. I hope the visitors perceive the message wherein I request them to bring back the fun and carefree world of childhood back to children today,” said Swain.

Swain had moved to New Delhi in 2007 and works at his studio there. But according to him, his ties with the state are only growing stronger.

“I participate in group shows held in Odisha even now and then. I am looking forward to holding a solo exhibition here in the near future. Living away from home makes me very nostalgic. So, I ensure that I visit Bhubaneswar many times a year,” he said.