A Series of River Landscapes by Artist Kailas Satambekar
Burmi – A Journey of River Reflections
For the past month, I’ve found myself drawn to the river near my home, captivated by the way sunlight dances on the water and the rugged rock shores shape the landscape. Observing these ever-changing reflections has been more than just a source of inspiration—it has become a profound creative journey. As an artist, I see nature as more than a backdrop; it is a living, breathing muse that influences every brushstroke. This exploration has deepened my connection to both my art and the stories I strive to tell through my paintings.
The Process: A Daily Ritual
Each late afternoon, I packed my supplies and walked to the riverbank. The calm water and shifting reflections not only created a peaceful space for creativity but also inspired deeper observation. “I’ve been experimenting with capturing different moods and color palettes each time I visit a new spot along the river. Every visit fills me with excitement—I never know what new emotions or impressions will emerge through my painting. While I began with a broad range of colors, I now choose hues more intuitively, based on the atmosphere and energy of the moment. My focus is less on realism and more on expressing the feel of the place—its mood, rhythm, and quiet presence.”
Different Compositions
As I painted, I experimented with compositions and sizes, adapting to the landscape’s rhythms. Using gouache, I captured rock textures and the water’s softness, developing techniques that added depth while preserving its reflective quality.
I focused on each brushstroke, balancing soft edges with defined lines. This harmony between softness and precision became a key element of the series.
The Beauty of Imperfection
Not every painting was a success, and that’s okay. I experienced plenty of frustration as some works didn’t turn out the way I had envisioned. Sometimes, the reflections didn’t match my expectations, making the atmosphere feel distant. Yet, these “failed” works taught me valuable lessons, pushing me to refine my techniques and perception of the landscape. I now see failure as a vital part of the creative process—an essential step toward growth and deeper understanding.
Engaging with the Local Community
One of the most enriching parts of this experience was connecting with the local community. Conversations with children, fishermen, and longtime residents deepened my understanding of the river and its rhythms.
I also watched birds return home each evening, a humbling reminder of nature’s effortless harmony. These moments reshaped my perspective, showing that art is not just about sight but also about feeling, timing, and awareness.
The River Series: A Collection of Works
What began as an exploration of natural beauty evolved into a series of selected paintings, each capturing a distinct moment by the river. Some works are abstract, focusing on the play of light and reflection, while others are more detailed, capturing the solid, enduring nature of the rocks. Through these varied compositions, I sought to portray the river in all its moods—from tranquil to turbulent, from reflective to raw.
The works in this series blend observation with interpretation, reflecting my own journey as an artist. They are not just depictions of the landscape; they are meditations on the relationship between water, land, and light, and how these elements shift and change throughout the day.
Why Reflection?
The theme of reflection is central to this series—not only in the literal sense of the water mirroring the landscape but also as a metaphor for my artistic growth. With each visit to the river, I had time to reflect, both on the landscape and on my own journey as an artist. In this way, reflection became a dual process—an exploration of both the external world and my internal creative process. Ultimately, this ongoing dialogue between nature and self shaped my artistic perspective.
Final Thoughts
As I continue to work on this series, I’m grateful for the peaceful hours spent at the river, the lessons learned from each brushstroke, and the sense of connection to nature and the community. The river, with its ever-changing beauty, taught me the importance of patience, observation, and adaptability—lessons that transcend the canvas and flow into other aspects of life.
I hope this series resonates with you as deeply as it has with me. More than just creating something beautiful, art is about being present, fully aware of the world around you, and capturing that feeling on the canvas. Ultimately, it is a reflection of both the moment and the artist’s journey.
You Can also Explore this River Series & Other Works
This collection is now available for viewing and purchase on my www.kailassatambekar.com and Saatchi Art profile. If you’re interested in bringing a piece of this journey into your space, please feel free to reach out or explore the works online.
“If you’re a curator or collector who connects with this series, I’d love to hear your thoughts.”
“Looking for a gallery-ready piece with emotional depth? Let’s connect.”
Superb , excellent work and very thoughtful also
Thank you Adishree Kulkarni Ma’am for your feedback, It really matters me a lot !