About my journey
Discover the story behind the art of Phaibhakapar Kharlukhi, where nature, culture, and spirituality come to life on canvas.
Phaibhakupar Kharlukhi, an oil landscape painter born in Shillong in 1977, has nurtured a passion for art since a very young age. Though he initially pursued painting as a hobby, his creative journey evolved significantly as he grew older. Drawing from a few years of experience in photography, he began blending photographic techniques with his painting. Over time, this fusion helped him realism.
Living the life of an artist, for me, is living in constant dialogue with nature. Each day begins not in a rush, but in observation—of light slipping through the trees, of clouds forming over distant hills, of the stillness or movement of the earth around me. My lifestyle is shaped by these quiet moments. It is during early morning treks through the slopes of Meghalaya, or quiet afternoons spent by a stream, that ideas begin to form. I often hike uphill and downhill, sometimes for hours, searching for a place that speaks—a beauty spot where nature composes its own masterpiece, and I merely follow.
Earlier
Earlier in his artistic journey, Phaibhakupar Kharlukhi explored a variety of expressive styles, particularly in portrait painting and lots of Still Paintings. His work during this phase was characterized by a looser painting technique and a bold use of high-contrast lighting, focusing on mood, expression, and the drama of shadow and form. These experiments in light and gesture became essential stepping stones in developing his current visual language. Though his focus has shifted more toward landscapes and nature-based compositions, the knowledge gained from these past explorations—especially the ability to manipulate contrast and emotional intensity—continues to inform and enhance his present style, adding depth and atmosphere to every sceneVision
Phaibhakupar Kharlukhi’s long-term vision is to create artworks that transcend the moment—to become living records of time, culture, and place. His goal is to compose pieces that are not only visually striking but also carry the weight of history, the truth of the present, and the spirit of the future. Each painting is intended to serve as a narrative thread—interweaving past traditions, current realities, and lasting knowledge that future generations can look back on and learn from. Through this vision, Kharlukhi sees his art as a form of preservation, reflection, and timeless storytelling—rooted in heritage, grounded in fact, contemplated by someone else. He believes that art is meant to connect, to evoke emotion, and to invite reflection. Therefore, an advice to emerging artist is “Create an Art, show it to the world and let the artworks speaksCurrent and Future Artistic Endeavors:-
In his current body of work, Phaibhakupar Kharlukhi places a strong emphasis on research, fieldwork, and practical involvement as the foundation of every composition. For him, creating a painting goes far beyond visual representation—it begins with an in-depth study of the main subject, including its history, cultural significance, ecological context, and lived experience. Field trips play a crucial role in this process, allowing the artist to observe firsthand, interact with local environments and communities, and gather material that informs both the concept and the execution of the piece. Every artwork is supported by theoretical knowledge and factual insight, which Kharlukhi considers essential to forming a strong and authentic point of view. This methodical approach ensures that each painting is not only aesthetically compelling but also deeply rooted in truth, understanding, and respect for its subject. While grounded in traditional techniques and natural materials, Phaibhakupar Kharlukhialso embraces the evolving possibilities offered by digital tools and AI in his creative process. In his recent works, digital applications and artificial intelligence serve as powerful companions—helping him visualize compositions, study light behavior, and refine the interplay of elements before translating them onto canvas. These tools do not replace his hands-on practice, but rather extend his artistic mindset, allowing for deeper exploration of lighting, mood, and structure. Through this harmonious blend of ancestral knowledge and modern innovation, Kharlukhi continues to expand the boundaries of his landscape art, crafting images that are both timeless and forward-looking.