Stunning Revelations: Gautham Manohar Captures the Heartbreaking Plight of Nature Through Powerful Photography
Gautham Manohar, an emerging voice in the realm of photography, emphasizes the importance of nature in his work while consciously avoiding the mention of specific locations. “I do not want my photographs to become part of a bucket list,” he states. His aim is to capture a universal essence of nature-whether it’s a hill, lake, or forest-highlighting the beauty that exists beyond particular spots. His upcoming exhibition, “Dreams, Places and the Spaces in Between,” seeks to showcase India’s breathtaking landscapes, as well as the urgent need for conservation amid human impacts.
Now based in New Delhi, Gautham’s journey began in Bengaluru, where he completed his education and embarked on a corporate career. Yet, like many creatives, he found that the corporate route left him unfulfilled. “I was disillusioned with what I was doing versus what I wanted to pursue,” he says. Photography had always been a passion for him, even as a childhood hobby. In 2010, he transitioned to wedding photography, but two and a half years ago, he pivoted to focus entirely on nature and conservation, driven by a shared commitment with his wife, Ashmitha Jasper.
Gautham hopes to inspire greater dedication to conservation through his photography, particularly in a nation where social development often overshadows ecological concerns. He argues that tourism should go hand-in-hand with conservation efforts. “Most of our beautiful tourist hotspots have become overrun,” he observes, noting the detrimental effects of mass tourism in North India. He points to the long-term consequences of our negligence, including worsening water crises and increased landslides. “We need to urgently preserve the very places we wish to promote,” he stresses.
His photographic approach involves capturing the essence of a location while deliberately steering clear of well-trodden tourist traps. Gautham envisions a comprehensive exploration of India’s diverse landscapes, with aspirations for road shows displaying his work across the country. He emphasizes the necessity of reaching an “inflection point” in his art before sharing it with the public, ensuring that his photographs convey their message independently.
“Dreams, Places and the Spaces in Between” debuted in New Delhi earlier this year and was met with an enthusiastic reception that Gautham found surprising given the traditional nature of his work. “My photography is a classic documentation of landscapes, primarily in black and white,” he notes. Despite its straightforwardness, the interest it garnered motivated him to bring the exhibit to Bengaluru, with hopes of showcasing it in cities like Mumbai and Kolkata soon.
While most of his work features monochrome images, Gautham explains this choice was not premeditated. “Black and white photography presents a range of possibilities,” he asserts, suggesting that it captures moods in a way that resonates personally with viewers. He observes that many people overlook the nuances of color, and presenting images in black and white compels a deeper engagement. “It introduces a level of abstraction,” he adds.
“Dreams, Places and the Spaces in Between” will be exhibited at the Bangalore International Centre from March 27 to 29, with free entry for all. For more details about his work and upcoming shows, visit @only10fineart. This exhibition not only highlights the beauty of India’s landscapes but also serves as a poignant reminder of the urgency for their preservation.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/art/gautham-manohar-brings-a-stark-revelation-of-natures-plight-with-his-photographs/article70750045.ece
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Publish Date: 2026-03-23 12:45:00
