About Pradeep Mishra
Pradeep Mishra is an Indian contemporary artist born in 1977 in Tumsar, Maharashtra. He completed his Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Painting from the Sir J.J. School of Art in Mumbai in 2002 and earned his Master of Fine Arts (MFA) from the same institution in 2004. After completing his education, Mishra was selected for a residency program at Khoj, New Delhi, where he further developed his artistic practice.
Mishra draws inspiration from the natural world, often focusing on animals, birds, and plants in his paintings. His work reflects a deep concern for the environment and a sensitivity to the ecological imbalances affecting today's planet. Through his art, Mishra communicates his worry about the effects of environmental degradation and expresses a desire for harmony between humans and nature. The intense expressions in the eyes of his subjects, whether animal or human, convey a sense of discontent and protest. This feeling is heightened by the use of fiery red backgrounds, which add a rebellious tone to his paintings and highlight themes of confrontation and defiance.
Mishra's artwork often explores the idea of coexistence and the unity of all living beings. He aims to portray the beauty and grace of both ordinary and extraordinary creatures, emphasizing the importance of peace and harmony in the natural world. His vivid colors and bold compositions make his work stand out and effectively communicate his message about the need for environmental awareness and respect for nature.
Throughout his career, Mishra has participated in several solo and group exhibitions. Some of his notable solo shows include "Being Served," presented by RL Fine Arts in association with Hacienda Gallery in Mumbai in 2008; "Living Instinct," hosted by Osmosis Gallery at the Museum Art Gallery in Mumbai in 2008; "Fields of Labour" at Anant Art in New Delhi in 2008; and "Fragrance of Earth" at the Guild Art Gallery in Mumbai in 2007. In 2010, he held a solo show titled "LovetoLive" at Palette Art Gallery in New Delhi.
Mishra has also been part of many group exhibitions, including "Filament: 6 years of the Peers Residency @ Khoj," presented by Khoj International Artists’ Association at Vadehra Art Gallery in New Delhi in 2008, and "Popular Reality" at Gallery Seven Art Limited in New Delhi in 2008. Other group shows include "Vicissitudes of the Constructed Image" at Tangerine Art Space in Bangalore in 2009, and "Young Contemporary India" at Gallery Kolkata in 2008. He has also participated in exhibitions such as the "Kala Ghoda Art Festival" in Mumbai, organized by The Guild, Mumbai, and various annual exhibitions at the Sir J.J. School of Art.
In addition to his exhibitions, Mishra has been recognized for his contributions to contemporary art through awards and honors. He was selected for the prestigious Khoj residency program in New Delhi in 2004, which helped him expand his artistic vision and engage with other artists on an international level. His work continues to be celebrated for its vivid portrayal of environmental themes and its call for a deeper connection between humans and the natural world.