About
Ratilal
Kansodaria
Ratilal M. Kansodaria is a renowned Indian artist whose metal sculptures vividly depict the traditional village children's playfulness life of Saurashtra, Gujarat. Rooted in his childhood memories, his work beautifully captures the harmonious relationship between humans, nature, and animals, reflecting the vibrant culture of his homeland. His sculptures evoke feelings of nostalgia and creativity, portraying a world where children found joy in simple, everyday objects, creating imaginative play that resonates with universal themes of innocence and a deep connection to nature.
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Kansodaria’s work has been showcased in numerous art galleries across India and abroad, and his sculptures adorn prestigious collections in institutions, companies, and the homes of notable figures such as the US Ambassador to India, Padmabhushan Architect B.V. Doshi, Mrs. Sonal Ambani, Mr. Sanjay Lalbhai, and Dabur. His art has reached countries like Japan, Germany, and Africa, earning him numerous state and national awards. Internationally, he has been honored with accolades from Art Horizon in New York, the Triennial in Osaka, Japan, and the German Technical Organization (GTZ) in Eschborn. He was also invited to China for a Public Sculpture Symposium.
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​As a pioneer artist of Gujarat, India, Kansodaria’s work offers a heartfelt celebration of rural life and its countless stories, serving as a poignant reminder of the simple joys that connect us all while highlighting the impact of urbanization on cultural and ecological richness.
Date | Awards & Honors | Location |
|---|---|---|
1986 | Award of Gujarat State Lalit Kala Academy | Ahmedabad |
1989 | Award of Gujarat State Lalit Kala Academy | Ahmedabad |
1990 | Award of National Kalidas Academy (Hon mention) | Ujjain |
1990 | Award of International Art Horizon | New York |
1990 | Work selected in National Lalit Kala Academy Exhibition | New Delhi |
1992 | Award of Gujarat State Lalit Kala Academy | Ahmedabad |
1992 | Award of Bombay Art Society | Mumbai |
1992 | Award in 6th All Indian Art Contest org by South Central Zone Cultural
Center | Nagpur |
1995 | Award of All India Fine Arts and Crafts Society | New Delhi |
1995 | Selected as one of the Indian Sculptors at 7th Asian Biennial | Dhaka |
1995 | Work selected for Slide Show in Australia on Contemporary Indian
Sculpture organized by National Lalit Kala | New Delhi |
1996 | Selected for Slide Show on Indian Contemporary Art at Royal College of
Art | London |
1996 | Invited to participate in All India Fine Arts Exhibition cum Auction | Baroda |
1997 | Invited in all India Fine Arts Exhibition at Eschborn, Germany org by
German-Technical-Co (GTZ) | Germany |
1997 | 40th National Kala Academy Award (Hon. Mention) | New Delhi |
1997 | Award of All India Fine Arts & Crafts Society, New Delhi for Fifty Years of Art in
Independent org by Gujarat State Lalit Kala Academy | New Delhi |
1998 | Sculpture selected in 9th International Contemporary Art Sculpture
Triennial At Osaka | Japan |
1998 | Award of Bombay Art Society | Mumbai |
2001 | Award of Bombay Art Society | Mumbai |
2001 | Work selected in National Lalit Kala Academy Exhibition | New Delhi |
2009 | ‘Gaurav Puraskar Award’ by Gujarat State Lalit Kala Academy | Gujarat |
2009 | One of personality in Coffee Table Book ‘Fathers & Sons’ launched by
Dr Sonal Vimal Ambani | Ahmedabad |
2014 | Invited to participate in China Guizhou International Handicraft & Folk Art
Expo, on behalf of CMIA | China |
2015 | Invited in ‘VADFEST’ Vadodara International Art & Culture Festival | Vadodara |
2015 | Gave live sculpture demo in wax on the celebration of 65th anniversary of the
establishment of bilateral diplomatic relations of India and China | Mumbai |
2023 | One of Jury Member of 63rd National Lalit Kala Academy annual exhibition | New Delhi |
2023 | Invited in search-cum-selection committee for selection of post of Director
General, Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) | New Delhi |
Awards & Honors
Ratilal M. Kansodaria’s artistic journey has been marked by numerous national and international accolades, reflecting his exceptional contribution to the world of art. Among his most prestigious honors is the Gaurav Purashkar, a lifetime achievement award that underscores his enduring impact on the cultural landscape. He has twice received the Gujarat State Lalit Kala Award, a testament to his artistic excellence, and the 40th National Lalit Kala Akademi Award, a distinguished recognition that highlights his significant achievements as an artist. Additionally, Kansodaria has been honored by esteemed institutions such as IFACS and the Bombay Art Society.
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His sculptures are not only celebrated in galleries but also studied by national and international universities and art societies, affirming their educational and cultural value. Beyond creating art, Kansodaria has also contributed his expertise as a judge in various art competitions, further cementing his role as a leading figure in the art community.
Public Monuments
Ratilal M. Kansodaria's public monuments reflect his unique vision and artistic perspective, extending beyond commercial projects. His notable contributions include the Akha Bhagat and Dalpatram sculptures, which are celebrated as part of Ahmedabad’s heritage and were inaugurated by Shri Narendra Modi. Kansodaria has also created large-scale monuments for prime locations in Unja and Surat, showcasing his distinctive style and design. These public works are crafted with his own concepts and ideas, adding a personal touch to each piece. ​
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Additionally, he has designed commercial sculptures ranging from 10 to 20 feet in height for private collections as well as institutions like Nirma University , Adani Institute and many more, enhancing both public and private spaces with his innovative approach.