Roadmaker (Triptych)

Nataraj Sharma travelled around the world when young, and studied art at the Faculty of Fine Arts, M. S. University, Baroda. Large format paintings are characteristic of his style, with civilisations represented dystopically through a landscape of decrepit machines and abandoned godowns and factories. In this triptych, Sharma draws our attention to a highway under construction with metallic debris, broken-down machinery, rods, nuts, screws, pylons, frames and other rubble strewn around. Vendors’ carts in the background are a reminder of life and trade along the roadside before roadbuilding took its toll at the cost of both livelihood and environment.