Performer-VI (Diptych)

Ananda Moy Banerji’s Performer series sought to explore universal feelings and relationships between people. The sleeping body at the bottom of the canvas paralleling the sword in front of the dancing figure adds a contrast between action and inaction, a state of rest and energy. Overarchingly, the human figures take precedence over the hillock and leaves that decorate their background but even then, the painting presents a quality of unification. Using line and colour, Banerji manages to add lyrical movement to his work: the white strokes bear a resemblance to notes of music, to which the figures and leaves seem to move.