Meanings in metal: the creative works of sculptor Rohan Sonavane
In this photo essay, we showcase a range of artworks from the iconic Jehangir Art Gallery in Mumbai.
Launched in 2014, PhotoSparks is a weekly feature from YourStory, with photographs that celebrate the spirit of creativity and innovation. In the earlier 945 posts, we featured an art festival, cartoon gallery. world music festival, telecom expo, millets fair, climate change expo, wildlife conference, startup festival, Diwali rangoli, and jazz festival.
Mumbai’s Jehangir Art Gallery recently hosted an exhibition featuring the works of talented young sculptor Rohan Sonavane. Over 45 of his sculptures were showcased (see our coverage of earlier exhibitions at this iconic Mumbai gallery here).
He is well known for his expressive, figurative and religious artworks, primarily in metal sculpture. His art bridges traditional Indian iconography with a contemporary aesthetic, creating pieces that reflect both spiritual depth and modern artistic sensibility.
“Art for me brings about a sense of peacefulness,” Sonavane tells YourStory. He graduated from the renowned JJ School of Arts in Mumbai in 2007.
He works extensively with metals like brass. His sculptures are at once symbolic and engaging for collectors and art lovers alike.
“I must have completed over 200 sculptures by now,” he adds. They are priced from Rs 70,000 to Rs 3 lakh, depending on size, theme, material, and complexity.
His exhibition at Jehangir Gallery was aptly titled Rhythmic Movement. The artworks reflect his engagement with dynamic human forms, drawing inspiration from classical motifs, athletics, and dance. The energetic sweep of gestures in these sculptures evokes a sense of celebration and emotional rhythm.
Sonavane has an art studio in Mumbai’s Dahisar suburb. His works have been featured in exhibitions in over 15 cities across India, including the India Art Festival (see our coverage of the festival’s Bengaluru, Mumbai and Hyderabad editions here).
His sculptures are detailed and evocative, and spark reactions of admiration, joy and peace in viewers. “It takes me around a month to complete each sculpture,” he explains.
“I come from a family of artists. I am blessed to have such a creative environment around me,” Sonavane says.
His work often interprets human emotions, spiritual themes, and cultural motifs through dynamic forms and gestures. As shown in this photo essay, his sculptures range from human figures in motion to iconic religious subjects, such as Buddha, Ganesha, and other symbolic representations.
Some of his artworks are titled Man with Flying Birds, Buddha with Flowers, Three Monks, Standing Buddha, and Running Man with Horse. They demonstrate an original and authentic balance between tradition and innovation.
Sonavane’s works are also featured in online platforms. They have received acclaim for sparking introspection, spurring dialogue, and exploring deeper interpretation of familiar cultural symbols.
He also offers tips for aspiring artists. “Pour out your emotions and thoughts into your artwork. Let the hidden feelings come out, then you will begin to discover your own unique style,” Sonavane signs off.
Now what have you done today to pause in your busy schedule and harness your creative side for a better world?
Rohan Sonavane
(All photographs taken by Madanmohan Rao on location at Jehangir Art Gallery.)