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Durga

Basuki Das Gupta

Basuki Das Gupta is a contemporary Indian artist whose richly textured paintings celebrate the quiet strength and spirit of everyday women. Born in 1970 in Bishnupur — a small town in West Bengal known for its terracotta temples — he completed his BFA and MFA from Visva Bharati University, Santiniketan, and now lives and works in Tumkur, India. Basuki’s work is rooted in memories of his mother and the women in his village — gathering after long days of work to share chai, laughter, and stories by the only radio in town. These moments of resilience and camaraderie became the emotional foundation of his art. His paintings reimagine Durga not as a distant goddess, but as every woman — multitasking, radiant, and strong. His oeuvre is rich and varied, ranging from free-associative, non-representational works to paintings featuring his signature slant-eyed, puppet-like figures. Drawing inspiration from Bengali tribal lore, folk traditions, the symbolism of Durga, the principle of Shakti, and Baul music, Basuki transforms everyday narratives into visual poetry. The earthy textures and patterns of Bishnupur’s terracotta temples echo in his mural-like canvases, where decorative motifs evolve into abstract, dynamic forms.

ARTWORK 

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