TEJAL PATNI

Engaging in a free-wheeling chat about the not-so-bizarre world of his rather well-paved journey, Patni gives us a peek into his creative mind and the diverse influences that have shaped his artistic vision, right after the resounding success of his debut show, Vichitra

- Ankita Rathod

An artistic legacy and familial influence, Tejal Patni emerges as the poster-boy of the ad film era from the 90s. Having apprenticed under the supreme genius Prabhu Dasgupta and a product of the cult collective agency Trikaya Grey, Patni started as a photographer and ad filmmaker. However, the recent outburst of his first immersive art showcase — ‘Vichitra’— translating to ‘Bizarre’— last month has truly caught attention.

Patni’s work transcends traditional boundaries, embodying the ethos of the modern artist. His pieces evoke a sense of meta-irony, challenging conventional notions of meaning and reality. Through a seamless fusion of art, installation, and experience, he invites viewers into a realm where satire and dark humor intertwine, fostering connection and understanding in a fragmented world.

“So, when we finally said OK, let’s do this. Then, when toilet paper happened a few months ago, I told Raman, who is the gallery director and part of Snowball, I said it’s the right time. People are ready! India is ready,” exclaims 53-year-old Tejal Patni over our zoom call just a day after wrapping up his first solo immersive art show from the comfort of his home in Dubai after working on it for the last two long years!

Cut to the vibrant streets of old Bombay, the echoes of Tejal Patni’s artistic journey reverberate through the charming bylanes of Fort. Here, amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life, a young Patni diligently walks into a raddi shop, day after day, immersing himself in the works of iconic American typography artist Neville Brody.