Artist Pundalik Shenoy: Pioneer of Eco-Conscious Collage Art in India

Kasaragod Pundalik Shenoy, born in Kasargod, Kerala, in 1938, left an indelible mark on the Indian art scene before his passing on June 13, 2017, at the age of 79. A self-taught artist, Shenoy is credited with introducing collage art to South India, a groundbreaking contribution that expanded the region’s artistic expression. He earned notable accolades, including the Kerala Lalit Kala Academy Award in 1975, and exhibited his works extensively throughout India. His exhibitions graced venues from the Kannada Sangha in Ernakulam to the Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath in Bangalore, displaying a unique style that blended conventional mediums with inventive collage techniques.

Shenoy’s art transcends traditional painting, embracing what he termed “Paintings without Paint.” His works reuse discarded materials, transforming scraps of paper and metal into evocative collages and reliefs. His mission was clear: to create beauty from waste, a vision rooted in environmental consciousness. He aimed to bring the hidden beauty of ordinary materials to life, making him a pioneer in eco-sensitive art.

Influenced by Carl Jung’s concept of the collective unconscious, Shenoy explored primal human themes in works such as Depth of Unconscious and Third Eye. His pieces often evoke mysticism, reflecting deeper, often subconscious narratives, with works like Kundalini and Libido depicting the multifaceted nature of human passion. His collages seamlessly blend cosmic mysteries with everyday realities, achieving a textured, almost three-dimensional effect that invites viewers to see coherence within chaos.

Pundalik Shenoy’s impact went beyond the gallery walls. After retiring from a successful career as a senior manager at Corporation Bank, he immersed himself fully in art and exhibited works across India. Remarkably, he chose not to commercialize his art, instead gifting pieces to loved ones and keeping most of his creations within the family. His work was widely recognized by artistic circles, and institutions like the Kerala Lalith Kala Academy and Karavali Chitrakala Chavadi honored his contributions to art.

Shenoy’s artistic legacy was supported and enriched by his wife, Late Padmini Shenoy, a well-known artist in her own right. Her paintings were exhibited by both national and international organizations, adding another layer of artistic influence to the Shenoy family’s creative legacy.

A devout Theosophist, Shenoy lectured across India and abroad, sharing insights from his spiritual journey and artistic philosophy. Despite his popularity, he preferred a low profile, valuing authenticity over fame. He is survived by three sons and a daughter, with his sons Ganesh and Suresh continuing his legacy as artists and record-holders. His son Suresh has established a museum in Mangalore, preserving Shenoy’s art and philosophy for future generations.

Pundalik Shenoy’s life exemplified a commitment to art, spirituality, and simplicity. His pioneering work in collage art continues to inspire, capturing the beauty of the ordinary while uncovering the mysteries of the human experience.