On My Surveillance by Debajit Paul

Debajit Rudra Paul is a contemporary Indian painter whose work bridges the gap between memory, environment, and the surreal. Born and raised in Tripura, a culturally rich region in Northeast India, he draws inspiration from his surroundings, transforming them into evocative, layered landscapes.

Paul holds a Bachelor’s degree in Painting from the Government College of Art and Craft, Agartala (2018) and a Master’s degree in Painting from the University of Kalyani, West Bengal (2020). His artistic journey has taken him across India, participating in numerous national exhibitions and regional residencies, immersing himself in the essence of rural and tribal life. His notable residencies include Latabuni (West Bengal, 2020), Bamutiya (Tripura, 2022–23), Mathabhanga (North Bengal, 2022), Kalimpong (West Bengal, 2023), and Surjamoninagar (Tripura, 2024).

Recognized for his distinctive artistic voice, Paul was awarded the prestigious one-year Research and Development Scholarship Residency by Lalit Kala Akademi, which he recently completed. His work has also been featured in "The Baroda March" (2024) and the curated exhibition "Gaman" at Vis A Vis Studio Cum Gallery, Vadodara—both highly regarded within India's contemporary art scene.

Paul's paintings delve into themes of displacement, nostalgia, and transformation, often materializing as surreal landscapes infused with remnants of human presence. His approach is deeply rooted in scavenging expressions from everyday life and reimagining them in abstract, yet emotionally charged, environments.

Currently based in Vadodara (Baroda), India, he continues to refine his visual language, creating artworks that resonate with collectors, curators, and art enthusiasts alike.