The ‘Kala Ghoda Poem’ paintings
The poems are referenced from Arun Kolatkar’s book ‘Kala Ghoda Poems’ published in 2004.
The works are a set of 8 paintings by a poet called Arun Kolatkar. Kolatkar was the ubiquitous Bombay lad - who spoke extensively about his city through the breath of his oeuvre. Sadly he died prematurely - but was one of those poets who could hold an audience of selected friends in the heart of the city week after week discussing poetry.
These discussions were held in an area called Kala Ghoda (which is in the centre of the city) - and quite tellingly Atul has selected these very poems to be part of this rather strongly Bombay centric exhibition.
Art and Text has been a strong part of Dodiya's practice. Poetry also resonates strongly not only in his work, but also by way of engagement in real life.