Posted on 10 April 2025:
Madhyama: Aashima Mehrotra’s Unique Artistic Vision
Aashima Mehrotra, a prominent visual artist and civil servant based in Delhi, is bringing her artistic philosophy to life through her solo exhibition, ‘MADHYAMA.’ This captivating showcase demonstrates her journey of creating her own ‘ISM’—a distinct style born out of her passion, experiences and inner dialogue.
Having nurtured her love for art since childhood, Aashima draws inspiration from the beauty of nature, the complexity of human interactions, and the adventures of travel.
Her artistic pursuits were shaped by studying the works of legendary painters such as Nandlal Bose, Amrita Sher Gil, Claude Monet, Picasso and Vincent van Gogh. While primarily self-taught, her talent has been honed under the guidance of master artists like Veer Munshi and Banshidhar Pratihary from Shantiniketan.
Aashima’s professional role in Railways and Tourism has immersed her in India’s vibrant diversity, exposing her to the rich traditions of towns and art forms. This has further fueled her creative vision, allowing her artwork to reflect deeply personal narratives and her unique philosophy. Her creations are infused with emotional depth and a profound understanding of cultural nuances.
The term ‘Madhyama,’ which serves as the foundation of this exhibition, draws from the Vedic philosophy behind the genesis of all creative expressions—be it sound, text, dance or paintings. It encapsulates the inner dialogue that an artist engages in prior to crafting their final masterpiece. These conversations often leave subtle imprints on the work or fade into oblivion, creating a delicate balance between revelation and erosion.
Through ‘MADHYAMA,’ Aashima Mehrotra invites viewers to explore the world of art as a witness to personal and philosophical journeys, offering them a glimpse into her soul and creative process. This exhibition promises to be a celebration of individuality, inspiration, and the transformative power of artistic introspection.
A Celebration of Colours: The Inauguration of ‘MADHYAMA’
The much-anticipated ‘MADHYAMA’ exhibition by the celebrated visual artist Aashima Mehrotra will be inaugurated on the 12th of April, 2025, at 11:30 AM. The grand opening will be graced by distinguished guests, including Arunish Chawla, Secretary/Ministry of Culture, and Anil Sooklal, High Commissioner of South Africa. Their presence symbolizes the intersection of art, culture and diplomacy, adding profound significance to the event.
Joining them will be luminaries from art and academia, including Sh. Bimal Bihari Das, President of AIFACS; Smt. Roopa Srinivasan, Member Technical/RCT; Smt. Manisha Saxena, EO (Addl. Secretary)/DoPT; Shri Manoj Kumar Dubey, CMD/IRFC; and Ms. Anju Ranjan, DDG/ICCR. Together, their collective admiration for artistic pursuits underscores the universal appeal and transformative power of ‘MADHYAMA.’
The exhibition will be hosted at Gallery B, AIFACS, located at Rafi Marg, Sansad Marg Area, New Delhi. Open for public viewing from the 12th to the 17th of April, 2025, the gallery welcomes art lovers between 11:00 AM and 7:00 PM daily.
Aashima Mehrotra: Celebrated Achievements in Art
Aashima Mehrotra’s artistic journey is adorned with remarkable achievements that highlight her creative brilliance. Her debut solo exhibition took place at the iconic Jehangir Art Gallery in Mumbai, a venue revered as one of South Asia’s most significant art spaces. Beyond this milestone, her work has graced prestigious national exhibitions hosted by AIFACS, GMR, and Lalit Kala Akademi.
With over 15 solo exhibitions and participation in more than 25 group shows, Aashima’s artistry has won admiration on both national and international platforms. Her painting “Kasani” was selected for the 89th Annual All India Exhibition of Arts by the Indian Academy of Fine Arts, Amritsar, showcasing her profound talent. Another masterpiece, “Yellow Satva,” earned her a solo show sponsorship at the Chitramayee State Gallery of Art in Hyderabad.
Her accolades extend globally, with notable successes such as 4th place in the “Art United – Together We Stand” competition organized by New York Art Competition in collaboration with Agora Art Gallery. She also secured 6th place in the American Art Awards under the category of Impressionism-Human. Adding to her honors, her painting “LAPATA LADIES” was selected for the prestigious “64th National Exhibition of Art, 2024-25” by Lalit Kala Akademi, Government of India.
Aashima Mehrotra: Global Recognition and Artistic Innovation
Aashima Mehrotra has made her mark internationally, participating in the Plein Air Russian Atlantis event in St. Petersburg and showcasing her work with ICCR in Beijing during “Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav.” As a member of the Kalaakalpam group, she continues to explore artistic boundaries, blending impressionist influences with abstract experimentation.
Her studio at Lalit Kala, Garhi, is a hub of creativity where vivid imagination, natural elements, and treasured memories converge.
Aashima’s paintings are part of prominent collections, including those of Adil Hussain, Pheroza Godrej, the US Embassy, and high-profile figures in India and abroad, reflecting her wide-reaching impact on contemporary art.
Through her accomplishments, Aashima continues to inspire art enthusiasts worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the canvas of contemporary art.
‘Madhyama’ defies boundaries, embracing a transcendental realm where its meaning becomes rich, layered, and multifaceted. Through diverse artistic approaches, Aashima Mehrotra weaves a harmony that exists in contrasts, transcending classifications to reveal the profound energy shaping thoughts, imagination and intentions.
This exhibition is a heartfelt endeavor to connect viewers with the essence of ‘Madhyama,’ offering a glimpse into the unspoken beauty captured in select paintings from the artist’s journey over the years.
‘MADHYAMA’ is more than an exhibition—it is a journey through transitions, a celebration of artistic exploration, and an invitation to uncover personal interpretations within the interplay of elements.
