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Photo shows two female friends self-consciously pose for a photo, with New Delhi’s iconic Lotus Temple behind them. This painting is a statement on sexuality and the presence and acceptance of same-sex relationships in Hindu stories and art.

Born into the Patua community of scroll painters and storytellers, Kalam Patua (India b.1962) is a self-taught contemporary exponent of Kalighat painting, which draws on conventions from West Bengal scrolls and Indian miniature painting. A postmaster in a rural post office in West Bengal, he is one of the few artists painting in this style today.

Patua’s unique watercolours contain elements of autobiography and myth, and reflect on social issues and current news events. Topics include the changing nature of Indian society; dowry deaths and violence against women. He also paints light, humorous works, including a series about working in the postal system.

Exhibited in 'The 8th Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art' (APT8) | 21 Nov 2015 – 10 Apr 2016