Vilas Shinde
Indian Contemporary Artist | Master of Color Theory & Abstract Visual Language
Biography
Vilas Shinde, born in 1953 in Satara, Maharashtra, is a noted Indian contemporary artist known for his experimental approach to color theory and abstract visual language. He earned his Diploma in Drawing and Painting from Sir J.J. School of Art, Mumbai in 1978, and went on to complete a Post Diploma in Painting from M.S. University, Baroda in 1980. He later pursued advanced studies in Painting at the École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts, and Printmaking in Paris, where he studied under the celebrated printmaker S.W. Hayter.
Shinde's art practice began in printmaking but transitioned into painting, where his deep understanding of pigment placement and color relationships became central to his work. His aesthetic leans toward abstraction, with expressionistic gestures, textural detailing, and minimal objective imagery. His manipulation of the color wheel allows him to explore nuanced tonal shifts and spatial dialogues within the canvas.
Recognized for his innovative visual style, Shinde has received several awards, including the First Prize at the 17th Maharashtra State Art Exhibition in 1976, the Gujarat State Lalit Kala Academy Award in 1980, and the French Government Scholarship (1981–82). He currently lives and works in Mumbai, India.
Artistic Style & Approach
- Action-based painting process disrupting conventional spatial composition.
- Precision in exploring color theory with adjacent color placements to evoke tension and harmony.
- Minimal objective forms, letting abstraction and texture drive meaning.
- Expressionistic depth through light, shade, and texture play.
- Influence of printmaking techniques learned under S.W. Hayter, leading to layered organic compositions.
Notable Artworks
Infinite (1997)
Explores boundlessness of spatial perception and color flow.
Explores boundlessness of spatial perception and color flow.
Space (1996)
Abstract rendering of negative and positive space through color fields.
Abstract rendering of negative and positive space through color fields.
Untitled (1999)
Richly layered, showcasing mastery in color balancing and texture.
Richly layered, showcasing mastery in color balancing and texture.
Forest (1989)
Suggestive of natural rhythms, abstracted via tonal contrasts.
Suggestive of natural rhythms, abstracted via tonal contrasts.
Time Texture (2002)
Convergence of pigment and gesture creating tactile narrative.
Convergence of pigment and gesture creating tactile narrative.
Displacement (1995)
Study of form and emptiness challenging compositional norms.
Study of form and emptiness challenging compositional norms.
Exhibitions & Participation
Solo Exhibitions
- 1982 – Hall D’accueil du Centre Albert Chatelet, Paris
- 1993 – LTG Art Gallery, New Delhi
- 1994 – Jehangir Art Gallery, Mumbai
- 1997 – Sakshi Gallery, Mumbai
Joint Exhibitions (with Jin Sook)
- 1987 – Shin-Shin Art Gallery, Daejeon, South Korea
- 1996 – Prithvi Art Gallery, Mumbai
Group Exhibitions & International Participation
- 1986 – Indian Festival, USA
- 1988 – International Printmaking Biennial, Bhopal
- 1992 – 17th International Independent Exhibition of Prints, Kanagawa, Japan
- 1996 – The Harmony Show, Reliance Industries Ltd., Mumbai
Collections
- National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi
- Lalit Kala Akademi, New Delhi
- Times of India, Mumbai
- Numerous private collections in India & abroad
Contributions Beyond Artwork
Vilas Shinde’s journey reflects a deep commitment to advancing Indian abstraction. His experiments with color theory and form have influenced younger artists exploring non-representational art. With training in both India and France, Shinde introduced an international sensibility into Indian art, blending Western printmaking techniques with Indian aesthetics.
Through collaborations with Korean artist Jin Sook and participation in global exhibitions, he has fostered cross-cultural dialogue in abstract art, helping elevate Indian abstraction on the world stage.
