Gulam Mohammed Sheikh (b. 1937), a luminary in contemporary Indian art, is celebrated for his poetic exploration of nature’s primal elements—land, water, sky, sun, and moon. His works transcend mere representation, offering a profound reflection on ecological and cultural coexistence. Sheikh’s luminous colors and evocative forms narrate a tale of harmony, where human and natural worlds intertwine seamlessly.

 

With an artistic language that bridges tradition and modernity, Sheikh's paintings emphasize the importance of sustainable living and a deeper connection with the environment. Milaaya Art has reinterpreted his masterpieces through intricate embroidery, translating his painterly strokes into vibrant threadwork. This viewing room invites you to immerse yourself in the brilliance of Sheikh’s art, now reimagined in tactile forms that celebrate the natural world.

  • A Tree in My Life, 1996 by Gulam Mohammed Sheikh

    A Tree in My Life- 29.9 x 22 in, 1996 (Embroidered)

    A Tree in My Life, 1996 by Gulam Mohammed Sheikh

    • Dimensions: 29.9 x 22 in
    • Medium: Hand Embroidery on Cotton poplin fabric
    • As the name suggests, this artwork depicts a tree as a friendly presence in life guarding us from ecological degradation. Here elements of nature like the sun and moon are woven into luxuriant foliage of a tree within a tree carrying flying figures to create an aura of exuberance.

    • Embroidery Details:

      The various thread textures with a mixture of bullion, cotton and silk thread give the artwork a depth making it come alive. The use of stitches such as French Knots, variations of satin stitch, criss-cross stitch, spring stitch help achieve the painterly effect.

  • Between Memory and Music, 1991 by Gulam Mohammed Sheikh

    Between Memory and Music - 42 x 84 in, 1989 – 1991 (Embroidered)

    Between Memory and Music, 1991 by Gulam Mohammed Sheikh

    • Dimensions: 42 x 84 in
    • Medium: Hand Embroidery on Cotton poplin fabric
    • This artwork depicts two worlds — one where the humans bound to their habitats are yearning to break out and embrace the adjacent moonrise and a sunny roadway. In the next region blooms a tree with majestic flowers surrounded by dancing cloud forms. 
    • Embroidery Details:

      It depicts the jugalbandi of human life and the world of abundant nature. To enhance the tree and the flowers, 3D textures are created using bullion and cotton thread

  • Beyond the Ridge, 1976 by Gulam Mohammed Sheikh

    Beyond the Ridge- 54 x 48 in, 1976 (Embroidered)

    Beyond the Ridge, 1976 by Gulam Mohammed Sheikh

    • Dimensions: 54 x 48 in
    • Medium: Hand Embroidery on Cotton poplin fabric
    • The beautiful landscape Beyond the Ridge, celebrates nature in its bounty of swaying trees, rolling pink hillocks and abundance of flora. The work endeavours to reveal the essence of nature by capturing the flow of pristine air and colours glowing to exude taste and smell making it a delectable sight.

    • Embroidery Details:

      Each tree and foliage in the artwork is done in unique thread techniques to show the beauty and the diversity of nature. The luminosity is enhanced with textured thread techniques to emphasize the internal brilliance of the foliage.

  • Gulam Mohammed Sheikh’s art is a luminous ode to the natural world, reflecting his deep understanding of ecological harmony and cultural interconnectedness. His evocative works invite viewers to contemplate the profound beauty of nature and humanity’s place within it. Milaaya Art’s embroidered interpretations honor Sheikh’s legacy, transforming his vibrant brush strokes into tactile masterpieces that preserve the essence of his vision.

     

    Through this collection, we celebrate Sheikh’s artistic genius, offering an immersive experience that bridges traditional craft with contemporary art. Each piece is a testament to the enduring relevance of his work and its capacity to inspire a greater appreciation for the world around us.