Paresh Maity, one of India’s most celebrated painters, recently shared his thoughts on the intersection of technology and creativity. As he opened the door to his art studio, the room came alive with vibrant hues of red, yellow, and blue, dominating the enormous canvases that covered the walls. The studio, filled with paints, brushes, and eccentric sculptures, was a testament to the creative genius that is Maity.
Maity is the artist behind some of the most iconic works in India, including “The Indian Odyssey,” one of the country’s longest paintings, displayed at Terminal 3 of the Indira Gandhi Airport in New Delhi. His works have been placed in prestigious locations, such as the Rashtrapati Bhawan and the British Museum in London. With over 80 solo exhibitions to his name, Maity has made an indelible mark on the art world.
During a recent conversation, Maity discussed his creative process, reflecting on the inspirations that have driven him throughout his artistic journey. He spoke with passion about his love for color, which he described as the soul of his work. “Colors have a language of their own,” he said, “they speak to the viewer in ways that words cannot.” His studio, with its shelves brimming with paints and brushes, is where this language comes to life.
Maity also addressed the growing influence of technology in the art world, particularly the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in creating art. While he acknowledged that technology has its place in modern society, he expressed a firm belief that true creativity cannot be overtaken by machines. “Technology can assist and enhance the creative process,” he explained, “but it can never replace the human touch, the emotions, and the personal experiences that drive true artistic expression.”
According to Maity, art is deeply rooted in human experiences and emotions, something that AI cannot replicate. He emphasized that creativity stems from the soul, and while AI can mimic styles or generate images, it lacks the depth and authenticity that comes from a human artist’s personal journey. “Every stroke of the brush, every color choice, is influenced by an artist’s life, their memories, their emotions,” Maity said. “This is something no machine can replicate.”
He also spoke about his upcoming collaboration, though he kept the details under wraps. Maity hinted that the project would be a blend of traditional art with modern techniques, but he was quick to clarify that technology would serve only as a tool, not the creator. “The essence of art lies in its ability to connect with people on a human level,” he said. “No matter how advanced technology becomes, it cannot create that connection on its own.”
Maity’s thoughts on AI in art come at a time when the debate over the role of technology in creative fields is more heated than ever. While some argue that AI has the potential to revolutionize art, others, like Maity, believe that the core of artistic expression will always remain in the hands of human creators.
As Maity continues to explore new horizons in his work, he remains committed to the idea that true creativity is something that can never be fully replicated by machines. His studio, filled with the tools of his trade, is a reminder of the tactile, hands-on nature of art. For Maity, the act of creating is more than just a process—it’s a deeply personal journey, one that technology can assist with but never replace.
In the end, Maity’s message is clear: while technology may change the way we create and experience art, it will never replace the human soul at the heart of creativity. As he prepares for his next project, the artist remains as dedicated as ever to pushing the boundaries of his work, all while staying true to the essence of what makes art so profoundly human.
Paresh Maity’s reflections also touched on the evolution of his own work over the years. He reminisced about his early days as an artist, when he relied solely on traditional methods and materials. The tactile experience of working with paint, the smell of the canvas, and the hours spent perfecting each stroke were all integral parts of his creative process. “There’s something irreplaceable about the physical act of creating art,” Maity noted. “It’s a form of meditation, a dialogue between the artist and the canvas.”
Despite his strong affinity for traditional methods, Maity is not entirely dismissive of technology. He acknowledged that digital tools have opened up new avenues for artists to explore, allowing for experimentation that was previously impossible. “Technology has given us the ability to reach a global audience, to share our work instantly with people all over the world,” he said. “It has also introduced new mediums and techniques that can complement traditional art forms.”
However, Maity remains cautious about relying too heavily on these advancements. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance, where technology serves as an aid rather than the driving force behind the creative process. “It’s essential to remember the roots of our craft,” he advised. “While we should embrace new tools, we must not lose sight of the foundation that true art is built upon—human emotion, experience, and the unique vision of each artist.”
As the conversation shifted to his future endeavors, Maity revealed his plans to mentor young artists, helping them navigate the complexities of merging traditional and modern techniques. He expressed a desire to ensure that the next generation of artists remains grounded in the fundamentals of art, even as they explore the possibilities offered by technology. “Mentorship is crucial,” Maity said. “Young artists need guidance to understand that while technology can enhance their work, the essence of creativity lies in their own hands.”
Maity’s views on art and technology reflect a broader conversation happening in creative industries worldwide. As AI and digital tools become increasingly prevalent, the challenge for artists like Maity is to find ways to integrate these advancements without compromising the authenticity and emotional depth that define their work.
Maity reiterated his belief that art’s true power lies in its ability to connect with people on an emotional level. Whether through a painting, a sculpture, or a digital creation, the artist’s role is to evoke feelings, provoke thought, and inspire action. “Art is a language of the soul,” Maity concluded. “And no matter how advanced technology becomes, it will always be the human touch that gives art its true meaning.”