Viraj Mithani, born in Mumbai, is an artist known for his work in the realms of painting, printmaking, and sculpture. His artistic practice reflects the complexities of globalization's disoriented syndromes, where contradictory forms bombard our thoughts and gazes.[1]
Born into a family with a business background, Viraj faced initial resistance from his businessman father when expressing his desire to pursue a career in the arts. Despite familial expectations for him to join the family business, Viraj found support from his mother and aunt. His grandfather, a photographer and artist who created works for personal satisfaction rather than public exhibition, and his grandfather's brother, who attended Mumbai's JJ School of Art, provided the only tenuous link to the arts in his family. Over time, Viraj's father grew more accepting of his chosen path.[2]
Viraj Mithani graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A) in Painting and Printmaking from the prestigious School of the Art Institute of Chicago in 2015. Additionally, he holds a diploma degree in Studio Art and Visual Communications from Chelsea Camberwell Wimbledon College of Art and Design (CCW) at the University of the Arts London, earned in 2012.[3]
While rooted in traditional painting, he was introduced to printmaking during his undergraduate studies, and he currently integrates both mediums into his work. Known for his distinctive layering technique, Viraj also incorporates elements of sculpture, employing materials such as wood, 3D printing, and fiberglass.[4]
Viraj has showcased his work in both solo and group exhibitions. Notable exhibitions include displays at Clark House in Mumbai, Spudnik Press Cooperative in Chicago, Dalarnas Museum Falun in Sweden, and the International Competition Lithography Litho – Kielce in Poland. His work has been featured in prominent venues such as the Hammond Museum in New York, Sullivan Galleries, the Gene Siskel Film Centre in Chicago, and the Illinois State Museum.[5]