Suneel Mamadapur, born in 1975 in Bijapur, Karnataka, is an artist and educator based in Bangalore. His work explores themes of power, desire, and cultural narratives through painting and printmaking. He examines how these elements influence visual, social, and political contexts, with a focus on relationships of power and difference. Suneel is also an Associate Professor in Printmaking at the Department of Fine Arts.
He earned a Diploma in Fine Arts from the KEN School of Art, Bangalore, in 1997, followed by a Post Diploma in Graphic Arts from M.S. University, Baroda, in 2000. In 2001-02, he participated in a Post Experience Program at the Glasgow Print Studio, Scotland, sponsored by the Commonwealth Foundation. This opportunity allowed him to refine his printmaking skills and develop a deeper understanding of cultural dynamics through art.
One of Suneel’s significant works, Amitabh Bachchan, combines the Bollywood icon with the number “786,” which holds religious significance in Islam and symbolizes good fortune. This blending of a secular figure with a religious symbol invites multiple interpretations and highlights Suneel’s interest in merging cinema, desire, and spirituality. His artistic style often engages with surrealism, using bold imagery to explore themes of power and identity.
Suneel has held several solo exhibitions, including Cognitive Dissonance (2010) and Song of the Abandoned Road (2006) at the Palette Art Gallery, Delhi, and Desert of the Present (2007) at the Museum Art Gallery, Mumbai. He has also participated in group exhibitions like Dali’s Elephant (2010) at Aicon Gallery, London, and international art fairs and biennials in Bhopal, Japan, and the UK.
Throughout his career, Suneel has received many prestigious awards, including the 45th National Academy Award from Lalit Kala Academy, New Delhi, and the Camlin Art Foundation’s Southern Region Award. He has also earned scholarships from the K.K. Hebbar Art Foundation and Human Resource Development Research Grants.
Known as a prominent exponent of surrealism, Suneel uses vibrant colors and layered narratives to explore personal and collective desires. His work challenges conventional ideas of power and identity, offering thought-provoking interpretations.
Suneel Mamadapur continues to live and work in Bangalore, balancing his roles as an artist, educator, and designer. Through his artistic practice and teaching, he remains actively engaged in exploring and reimagining cultural narratives.
