Be it the “running hot water boy” from Kahaani or the street-smart Kochua from Open Tee Bioscope, Rwitobroto Mukherjee has proven his acting mettle in every role he has played. But the 24-year-old also has a little-known talent — artist Rwitobroto’s paintings were recently showcased at an exhibition.
The master’s student of Comparative Literature at Jadavpur University, who debuted in Kahaani and left a mark in films like Open Tee Bioscope, Durga Sohay, Generation Aami, Dwitiyo Purush, Shabash Feluda, chatted with My Kolkata about his art exhibition, his take on art and more.
Excerpts from the conversation…
My Kolkata: How long have you been involved in painting? Have you received any formal training?
Rwitobroto Mukherjee: I’ve been painting since my school days. I was enrolled in a painting school at a young age and pursued Fine Arts as a subject from Class IX to XII. However, I must admit I was more inclined towards doodling on the back of notebooks, a habit that persists to this day. Additionally, my involvement in theatre drew to creating set designs. While I may not have been intensely focused on painting after completing my Higher Secondary education, it remained a part of my life, whether for theatrical purposes or personal expression. The first and last three pages of my college notebooks are still reserved for drawing.
A painting by Rwitobroto from 2017 Rwitobroto Mukherjee
How did the exhibition come about?
Earlier this year, Sudiptada (artist Sudipta Adhikari) reached out to me. He is part of a group called Freewings, comprising artists who pursue art alongside their day jobs. Freewings organised an exhibition featuring artists from diverse backgrounds and both Surangana (Bandyopadhyay) and I were approached for paintings, while Riddhi (Sen) was invited to show his photographs. At that time, Sudiptada mentioned the plan for an exhibition at Charubasona Gallery, which was to be on a grander scale with proper canvas exhibits. The idea intrigued and motivated me and I thoroughly enjoyed participating. The experience turned out to be a rewarding and enriching learning opportunity for me.
Do your parents draw and paint too?
No, my father (Santilal Mukherjee) does not paint. However, there's an interesting aspect that not many people know – my father initiated his career in acting and also worked as an interior designer for an extended period. The interior of our home was designed by him. Although he doesn’t paint, I inherited my inclination for drawing theatre sets and stick figures from him. Both my father and Chandan Kaka (Sen) fostered my interest in Google Sketch. While my mother is not a painter, she is very good at embroidery.
What is your preferred medium for artwork – pencil, charcoal or watercolour?
I have primarily worked with pencil and pen as well as felt, marker, sketch pens and acrylic colours. I have also experimented with canvas and watercolour. However, I am yet to work with charcoal, but I am keen on exploring it in future.
Rwitobroto’s naturescape exhibited at Charubasona Gallery _rwitobroto_/Instagram
What type of artworks do you create most frequently?
It’s arbitrary! I paint whenever the mood strikes me.
Do you also create portraits? Have you attempted to sketch your parents or your friends Surangana and Riddhi?
I struggle with painting faces. My father gave me a book on face drawing when I was younger. Although I have tried drawing faces, I still haven’t got a grip on it.
Who are your favourite artists and do you have a preferred art period?
I don’t have a specific favourite art period, but when I was younger, actor and theatrician Debesh Chattopadhyay once advised me to study artworks to understand light and shadow. It took me some time to realise how one can draw inspiration for light and shadow from paintings. I particularly admire the works of John Constable. During my time in London, I spent an entire day exploring the National Gallery, captivated by John Constable’s compositions. I also appreciate the art of Rembrandt and Van Gogh. My aspiration is to travel around the world, visiting as many museums as possible to experience the diverse range of paintings and artworks.
How does inspiration strike you for an artwork? Do you keep a sketchbook handy?
Inspiration often comes from the simplicity of everyday life and the whims of the heart.
No, I don’t usually carry a dedicated sketchbook, but as I said before I do find myself scribbling in my college notebooks from time to time.
Rwitobroto’s painting exhibited at Charubasona Gallery in 2023 _rwitobroto_/Instagram
If something captures your attention amid your busy schedule, do you capture it through photography to later bring it to life in a painting, or does it find its way into your memory?
I was involved in photography for a significant part of my life and I still enjoy it. If I feel compelled to take a photograph, I go ahead. However, I don't necessarily aim to replicate it in my artwork. When something grabs my attention, I prefer to recreate it on paper from my memory.
Did you have the opportunity to meet artist Jogen Chowdhury during your exhibition? What did he have to say about your art?
Yes, indeed. He appreciated my paintings and was really happy that despite coming from a different background, I have a keen interest in painting. This was a great achievement for me.
Rwitobroto with Jogen Chowdhury at the art exhibition _rwitobroto_/Instagram
As an artist, do you believe that employing multiple mediums of expression aids in conveying your creative instincts?
Certainly, utilising various forms of art allows an artist to articulate their ideas.
