Dileep Sharma

Born in 1974, Mandawar, Rajasthan, India, is a contemporary printmaker and painter known for his vivid and thought-provoking visual language. He completed his Master of Fine Arts in Printmaking from Sir J.J. School of Art, Mumbai, in 1998, after earning his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Painting from Rajasthan School of Art, Jaipur, in 1996. His artistic practice reflects a dynamic interplay between individual identity and society, deeply rooted in symbolism and influenced by pop culture, mythology, and urban life. Sharma explores themes such as eroticism, fashion, media influence, and sociopolitical narratives, often depicting flamboyant, stylized figures that represent modern aspirations and consumer culture. Through techniques like fragmentation, layering, and the use of vibrant motifs, he creates satirical visual narratives that critique the fleeting, media-driven world and the blending of traditional values with contemporary lifestyles. Over the years, he has held numerous solo exhibitions both in India and internationally, with shows in cities such as Mumbai, New Delhi, Kolkata, Seoul, London, Tokyo, and Jaipur, including notable exhibitions like “Valley of Flowers” (2016, Mumbai), “Theatre of Libido” (2009, Japan), and “Kunwarji’s Fantasy” (2008, Seoul). He has also participated in prominent group exhibitions and international art fairs, including the Indian Art Fair and Art Dubai, as well as exhibitions in Singapore, China, Belgium, and Venice. In addition, Sharma has taken part in artist residencies and workshops such as the Glasgow Print Studio residency and various international collaborations. His contributions to the field have been recognized with several awards and honors, including the Senior Fellowship from the Centre for Cultural Resources and Training, Government of India, in 2019, the “Asia Belt” award at the Seoul International Print & Photo Art Fair in 2008, and an Honorable Mention at the 6th International Biennial of Print at Bharat Bhavan in 2004. He has also received merit awards at the Kochi International Print Triennial in Japan in 1999 and 2002, along with the Bendre-Husain Scholarship in 2001 and the National Lalit Kala Akademi Scholarship in 2000. Dileep Sharma currently lives and works between Mumbai and Jaipur, India.