Ranbir Singh Kaleka’s practice embodies a restless exploration of perception and experience, seamlessly blending traditional and contemporary forms. Born in 1953 in Patiala, Punjab, Kaleka trained at the College of Art, Punjab University, before refining his approach at the Royal College of Art in London. His early works, primarily executed on paper and canvas, draw on surrealist influences, capturing moments from everyday life through subtle color schemes and evocative, suggestive lines. These paintings evoke a quiet introspection, reflecting the complexities of human consciousness with restrained sensitivity.

A significant transformation in Kaleka’s oeuvre emerged through his pioneering work in video art. He developed the concept of ‘hyperimages,’ an innovative fusion of painting with video projection that integrates light, movement, and sound to create immersive environments. This melding of media dismantles the boundaries of static imagery, inviting viewers into multisensory encounters where visual, auditory, and spatial elements converge. The resulting installations challenge conventional modes of viewing, expanding the experience of art into a dynamic interplay of senses.

Central to Kaleka’s work is the investigation of psychological moments, those transient intersections where physical reality meets inner emotional and mental states. This thematic preoccupation with the nexus of body and mind persists across his evolving artistic vocabulary, whether through the intimate gestures of his early paintings or the layered complexity of his multimedia pieces. Kaleka’s contributions have achieved international recognition, with exhibitions at major venues including the Venice Biennale, Sydney Biennale, and the Museum of Fine Arts in Berne, Switzerland. These platforms highlight his role as a leading figure in contemporary art who persistently pushes the boundaries of medium and message. His ongoing experimentation with emerging technologies continues to expand the possibilities of visual language, demonstrating a commitment to innovation without relinquishing conceptual depth. Currently based in New Delhi, Ranbir Singh Kaleka remains a vital force within Indian art, shaping its trajectory through his multidisciplinary approach and visionary practice. His work stands as a testament to the power of art to engage not only the eye but the full spectrum of human perception.