Yashica Dhabre: Bridging Figurative and Abstract Art

Early Life and Education

Yashica Dhabre, born in 1996 in Maharashtra, India, is a visual artist known for her unique approach that blends figurative and abstract elements. She began her artistic journey with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fashion Design from the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) in Mumbai, graduating in 2015. Her background in fashion design laid a strong foundation in color theory, form, and aesthetics, which she has successfully translated into her work as a visual artist.

Emergence in the Art World

In 2021, Dhabre’s work was prominently featured in an exhibition at the Nehru Centre in Mumbai. This exposure marked her as a significant emerging artist in the Indian art scene. Over the past three years, she has established herself as a Mumbai-based artist with a distinct voice in portraiture and conceptual art. Her work often explores the intersection of personal identity and broader social themes, presented through a blend of abstract and representational styles.

Artistic Training and Mentorship

Dhabre’s strong artistic foundation is evidenced by her studies in visual composition and contemporary art theory at Triveni Kala Sangam in Delhi, under the guidance of the esteemed artist Rameshwar Broota. Broota’s influence can be seen in her meticulous approach to composition and her exploration of complex themes through a refined visual language. Additionally, she honed her sculptural skills under the mentorship of Valay Shende, a Mumbai-based artist known for his socially engaged, large-scale sculptures. This mentorship further deepened her understanding of materiality and the role of art in addressing societal issues.

Current Studies and Artistic Evolution

Currently, Dhabre is pursuing a Master of Fine Arts in Painting at the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) in Baltimore, Maryland. Her studies at MICA have expanded her perspective, incorporating interdisciplinary approaches that merge art historical themes with a scientific understanding of the natural world. This educational experience has been pivotal in refining her artistic voice and pushing the boundaries of her creative practice.

Artistic Themes and Methodology

Dhabre’s work is characterized by an intensive investigation into materials and formal art processes. She frequently explores the visual representation of the human form and the impact of human actions, themes that are informed by both art historical contexts and contemporary scientific perspectives. Her artistic process is deeply analytical, driven by a desire to understand and manipulate formal elements such as space, light, and texture. This allows her to create works that not only engage viewers visually but also invite them into a deeper, more introspective dialogue.

Exploration of Space, Medium, and Time

A significant aspect of Dhabre’s practice is her interest in the relationship between art objects and their environments. She often engages with space and medium in innovative ways, creating time-sensitive projects that respond to their specific contexts. Her work emphasizes the fluidity of experience, encouraging direct and indirect interactions between the viewer and the artwork. This approach underscores her commitment to creating art that is both immersive and thought-provoking, challenging traditional boundaries between the artwork and its audience.