Private: Gallery

In this poignant painting, the artist invites viewers to contemplate the solemn significance of June 18th, transcending any specific historical event. Titled “Painting the Agony,” it serves as a haunting reminder of tragic incidents that continue to echo through time. The canvas bears witness to nightmarish episodes of violence and arson, where precious lives were abruptly extinguished. It stands as a stark portrayal of heartbreak, one that leaves an indelible mark on the collective memory, persisting for generations to come.

When exhibited beyond Manipur, this artwork earned the evocative name ‘Painting the Agony.’ Critics recognized its ability to encapsulate abstract emotions—sorrow, suffocation, and the unsettling essence of a recurring nightmare. Painted by a Manipuri artist, it carries a unique significance, as the incident unfolded in the artist’s home state. The composition features lifeless bodies strewn across the scene, while survivors stand in haunting contemplation, seemingly trapped between the realms of reality and the world of the departed.

Amidst this harrowing imagery, the artist underscores the remarkable sacrifice made by these individuals for the sake of their motherland, a sacrifice that will be remembered and revered by future generations. Notably, the painting refrains from portraying revenge or hatred; instead, it radiates a profound hope for a brighter, more peaceful future. The green patch in the background symbolizes peace and progress, serving as a backdrop for these unarmed figures moving forward with unity and a singular focus on the profound connections between human hearts.