Out of the World: Sanjay Dhawan’s Eighth Solo Show at India Habitat Centre

Rajkumari Sharma Tankha

Ambala-based contemporary artist Sanjay Dhawan recently showcased his eighth solo exhibition, “Out of the World,” at the Open Palm Court Gallery, India Habitat Centre, New Delhi. The exhibition was a truly mesmerizing experience, featuring breathtaking artworks made entirely from corrugated cardboard.

With over 100 works on display, the exhibition included aesthetic wall pieces as well as functional home décor items like wall mirrors, small tables, and stools, showcasing Dhawan’s versatility and creativity.

Corrugated Cardboard: A Unique Artistic Medium

Sanjay Dhawan began experimenting with corrugated cardboard art in 2010, aiming to carve a distinctive identity in the vast world of contemporary art. By transforming an everyday packing material into a medium for abstract and functional art, Dhawan has truly achieved his goal.

“I wanted to develop my own signature style and do something no one had done before. Today, I can humbly claim to be the only artist in the world working with this medium,” says Dhawan.

Art for Everyone: Accessible Pricing and Audience Engagement

A remarkable aspect of Dhawan’s approach is his responsiveness to visitor feedback. Inspired by suggestions from previous exhibitions, he introduced home décor items such as mirrors, clocks, and stools. The price range of his artworks has been deliberately kept between Rs 6,900 and Rs 50,000 to ensure accessibility for art lovers without financial hesitation.

From Oil on Canvas to Cardboard Art

Before embracing cardboard, Dhawan painted with traditional oil on canvas and focused primarily on Western markets, sending works to the US, UK, Canada, and Australia. While financially rewarding, he sought a path that distinguished him as a truly innovative artist.

The idea for cardboard art came spontaneously while packing one of his paintings. Realizing that packing materials could become a medium for his creativity, Dhawan researched online and found no precedent, prompting him to pioneer this unique art form.

Sourcing and Creating Corrugated Cardboard Art

Dhawan sources discarded packing materials from industries that sell them as scrap. “They are happy someone is using their waste, and I’m happy to get raw materials easily,” he explains. He then cuts, assembles, and paints the cardboard to create his abstract artworks, each with a thoughtful title. For example, his painting “Ego” depicts a white eye hidden amid colors, reflecting the theme of vanity.

A Lifelong Passion for Art

Born in 1964, Sanjay Dhawan’s passion for art began early. Winning his first prize in a drawing competition in class 3, he continued to excel throughout school. However, family responsibilities initially prevented him from pursuing art full-time. After working as an engineer, Dhawan finally followed his heart in 2010, dedicating all his resources to creating art.

“At my deathbed, I didn’t want any regret that I didn’t try. That was my driving force,” he says.

Conclusion: A Truly Out-of-the-World Experience

Sanjay Dhawan’s Out of the World exhibition is a testament to innovation, dedication, and the transformative power of art. By redefining materials and making art accessible, he continues to inspire both art connoisseurs and novices alike.