Robin David marks 50 years in sculpture with a stunning solo exhibition in Hyderabad

Veteran sculptor Robin David showcases 30 stone sculptures in a solo show. Titled 'Sculpting Voids' the show is curated by Aman Preet Kaur of Sirjanhara The Art Studio

Veteran sculptor Robin David marks 50 years of his sculptural journey with ‘Sculpting Voids’, an exhibition curated by Aman Preet Kaur of Sirjanhara The Art Studio in Hyderabad. The showcase features 30 meticulously crafted stone sculptures, created over six years. Ranging from one to four feet high in height and sculpted from black and white marble, these works exude symmetry and rhythm. Embracing abstraction, Robin invites viewers to interpret the pieces through their own perspectives, making each interaction a personal experience.

Can an empty space be as engaging and expressive as a sculpture? In Robin’s stone sculptures, voids are an integral part of his visual narrative. The exhibition offers insight into his creative process, exploring the interplay between solid forms and vacant spaces to introduce a new dimension..

The 75-year-old sculptor has visited Hyderabad before to organise symposiums but has never had a solo exhibition in the city. In fact, he had originally planned to showcase his works here after a preview in Bhopal. “But one art collector bought all my works within an hour, so I couldn’t bring them here,” he recalls with a laugh.

Robin’s fascination with stone began in Gwalior in 1974. A student of the Government College of Fine Arts, he played a key role in establishing the college’s sculpture department, which previously only offered painting. “Ours was the first batch, with just seven students — none of us knew how to sculpt,” he recalls.

The historical Ek Pathar Ki Bawdi in Gwalior became their guru, as the students learned the craft by chiselling stone with hammers. This hands-on experience cemented Robin’s enduring love for stone, although he has also experimented with materials like stainless steel and glass. Yet, stone remains his primary source of inspiration.

During his 25-year stay in Makrana, Rajasthan, Robin forged deep bonds with traditional artisans, immersing himself in the craft to preserve, propagate, learn, collaborate, and teach. His time there was not just about sculpting but also about honouring and sustaining centuries-old techniques.

He has also worked with Magsaysay awardee Rajendra Singh on a series of bavdis (stepwells), using his artistry to emphasise the importance of water conservation. Through these collaborations, Robin blended traditional craftsmanship with contemporary concerns, ensuring that his work carried both cultural and environmental significance.