Mahesh Jagtap is a multidisciplinary artist, sculptor, and conservator with over fifteen years of experience in the fine art industry. With a Master’s degree in Fine Arts (Creative Painting, 2010) and a deep passion for both artistic creation and the preservation of cultural heritage, he has built a career that bridges contemporary artistic expression with meticulous restoration and conservation.
As a painter, Mahesh delves into introspective and abstract themes, exploring the interplay between the conscious and subconscious mind. His work is a visual dialogue between inner emotions and external materiality, forming a universal language that resonates deeply with viewers. His paintings have been exhibited in India and internationally for the past fifteen years, captivating audiences with their layered textures, bold compositions, and psychological depth.
As a sculptor, Mahesh works with a diverse range of materials, including metal, wood, stone, resin, and ceramics, creating dynamic forms that blend traditional craftsmanship with modern artistic sensibilities. His sculptures reflect his keen understanding of materiality and structure, drawing inspiration from both organic and geometric aesthetics.
About
Fine Art Career & Exhibitions
Mahesh’s journey as an artist began with his first solo exhibition in 2005 at the prestigious Jehangir Art Gallery, Mumbai, shortly after completing his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Drawing and Painting from Sir J.J. School of Art.
His artistic journey began with accolades, including Silver Medal in 2003 and Gold Medal in 2005, at the Annual Exhibition of Sir J. J. School of Art. and Prestigious S.H. Raza Foundation Award in 2006. Early in his career, his talent was recognized internationally through exhibitions such as the Third International Exhibition at the World Trade Centre, Jakarta, Indonesia, in 2004.
In 2010, he won His Excellency The Governor of Maharashtra Award & Medal of The Bombay Art Society, and in 2018, he won the Maharashtra State Award from Prafulla Dahanukar Art Foundation.
Mahesh has participated in numerous exhibitions and art fairs across India and internationally. His works have been collected by private and corporate collectors, and he continues to explore new dimensions in abstract painting and sculptural installations.
Art Conservation & Restoration
In addition to his artistic practice, Mahesh has devoted the past four years to the field of art conservation and restoration, specializing in the preservation of paintings, sculptures, and heritage objects. His expertise extends to advanced techniques ensuring that historical artworks are preserved for future generations.
Mahesh completed a one-year Postgraduate Diploma in Museology and Conservation, followed by a five-month internship at the CSMVS Museum Conservation and Research Center in Mumbai, where he worked on museum objects, utilizing advanced scientific methods that allowed him to undertake complex restoration projects with a high degree of precision.
Grants, Research & International Engagement
For the year 2025, Mahesh is working under the Pollock-Krasner Foundation Grant, which would provide him with the resources to expand his creative practice, explore new materials and techniques, and prepare for upcoming exhibitions. His research interests include the intersection of contemporary art, material experimentation, and conservation ethics, driving his commitment to both artistic creation and the preservation of cultural heritage.
Mahesh’s work has been selected for the Martinsons Award 2025 as part of the Latvia Ceramics Biennale, to be held at the iconic Rothko Museum in Daugavpils, Latvia. Chosen from among submissions from around the world, Mahesh’s ceramic sculpture will be exhibited alongside works by artists representing 30 countries. The Martinsons Award 2025 International Juried Exhibition will be on view at the Rothko Museum from 5 September 2025 to 1 February 2026.
In the fall of 2024, during his visit to Berlin, Germany, Mahesh engaged in professional networking, museum research, and historical site visits, enriching his understanding of global conservation practices. His visit also included interactions with international artists and art professionals, strengthening his global artistic and conservation network.
Artistic Philosophy & Future Endeavors
Mahesh’s artistic journey is an ever-evolving process—a continuous exploration of form, emotion, and materiality. Whether through painting, sculpture, or conservation, his work seeks to create meaningful connections between history, contemporary expression, and the human experience.
He envisions expanding his studio practice, collaborating with international artists, and developing conservation projects that contribute to the preservation of India’s rich artistic heritage. With an unwavering commitment to both creativity and restoration, Mahesh Jagtap continues to make meaningful contributions to the contemporary art and conservation landscape.