"Lion Closeup" Drawing

Geology and art may seem like two very different fields, but they can intersect in fascinating ways. Muralidhar seems to use the textures, patterns, and colours found in rocks, minerals, and landscapes to serve as a rich source of inspiration as a painter and designer. Realistic Indian art is a testament to the enduring spirit of Indian creativity, encapsulating the nation's diverse heritage, traditions, and contemporary life. Through its portrayal of the real and the imagined, this genre continues to be a source of inspiration, reflection, and connection for artists and viewers alike, serving as a mirror to India's multifaceted identity. We see how the artworks have realistically captured various facets of the artist’s influence from the region of Kasaragod and Mangalore.

Muralidhar's journey began in Kasaragod, and later he relocated to Mangaluru. After dedicating 12 years of his career as a senior graphic designer/visualizer in Dubai, he returned to Mangaluru and persued freelancing in graphic design and art. With a postgraduate degree in Geology and being a self-taught artist, Muralidhar initiated his graphic design career at Artsworkshop in Car Street, Mangaluru.

Pencil and acrylic are his preferred mediums, but he has also ventured into pastels, oil, enamel, and watercolors to enhance his artistic prowess. Muralidhar's first art exhibition in Dubai took place with Artee Group at Timesquare Centre in 2008, followed by another in 2016, organized by The Cartoon Art Gallery, Dubai. Upon returning to Mangaluru in 2017, he actively engaged with the local art scene, participating in art camps and group exhibitions at various venues, including Aloysius College, Fisheries College, Rama Krishna Mission, Karavali Utsav, Kadri Rocks, and Mangalore River Festival. Recently took part in a group art exbibition at Jahangir Art Gallery, Mumbai.

Muralidhar's artistic journey includes accolades such as Gold and Public awards in the Countryside Artists Group online Facebook contest (June 2020) and a Bonus Trophy in The Great Indian Art online Facebook contest (2020). He also took part in an Online Art Camp organized by Karnataka Lalitha Kala Academy in October 2020. His art is grounded in realism and intricate details, often drawing inspiration from nature and its vibrant colors, which serve as his palette.