T.V. Santhosh

An international contemporary Indian artist T.V. Santhosh represents themes of global terrorism, violence, war as well as media injustice and manipulation. Born 1968 in Kerala, India, he received his training from Kala Bhavan, Shantiniketan, West Bengal. Later, he pursued a master's degree in Sculpture from MS University, Vadodara. Santosh’s illuminating paintings render his notions of socio-political power, lineage and history.

Santhosh draws his inspiration from the media outlets such as newspapers, magazines and television to create astounding visuals with encrypted symbolism. In an attempt to delve into socio-cultural, and political issues, his practice brinks to a maximalist approach yet remain to be eclectic, minimal and provocative.

Santhosh's art is a result of his constant concern about how our society defines nationalism and progress, which evidently portrays its side effects. His work often edges towards impending doom, wherein the world is slowly sinking, while expressing the aesthetics of an apocalyptic end. Highlighting universal problems of the biosphere, Santosh’s practice efforts to disclose the tragic route that the present generation is treading! Charged with activism, the figures and narrative stream have always been dressed by his peculiar palette and artistic style. They are colourful yet mind-wrenching, sentimental and precise.

Santhosh has acquired a name for himself in both the national and international scene. His art has been exhibited in both local and global venues including New Delhi, Beijing, Singapore and London. Interestingly, his sculptural work titled Houndingtown was shown at Frank Cohen's "Passage to India". Some of his other notable shows include "Warzone", "Havana Biennale" and "After Shock". Santhosh has also been a recipient of multiple awards like the Kerala Lalit Kala Academy State Award and the Kanoria Scholarship.

T.V. Santhosh lives and works in Mumbai, India.