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| Sculptures by Bahom Kaling Darang |
Bahom Kaling Darang, a multifaceted individual with a passion for both dentistry and sculpting, originates from the serene landscapes of Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh. Currently, he calls Guwahati home, where he navigates the intricate balance between his professional endeavors and artistic pursuits. A self-taught sculptor, Bahom's journey into the world of art reflects a harmonious blend of dedication and innate talent. Adding another layer to his dynamic persona, Bahom is married to Dr. Lima Das, a prominent figure in the realms of acting and dance, thus creating a household adorned with creativity and artistic expression. Bahom shares insights into his life as an artist, his upbringing, and his artistic vision.
When and how did you first delve into art and craft?
My artistic journey commenced during my primary school days, where the art classes ignited a spark within me. I vividly recall embellishing all my notebooks with sketches whenever I found a spare moment, be it on the margins or covers. Sculpting, on the other hand, serendipitously entered my life a few years ago.
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| Sculptures by Bahom Kaling Darang |
Balancing your work as a dentist and your passion for art can't be easy. How do you manage both roles?
Weekdays are dedicated to my dental practice, but once the night falls and weekends arrive, it's time for sculpting. Dentistry provides financial stability, while art fills my soul with happiness and fulfillment. While I entertain the idea of transitioning to full-time sculpting someday, for now, this equilibrium suits me well.
You work across various mediums, from sculpture to painting. Which one do you enjoy working with the most?
While I've experimented with painting and drawing, I find myself deeply connected to figurative sculpture. There's something inherently satisfying about molding clay with my hands and bringing three-dimensional forms to life.
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| Sculptures by Bahom Kaling Darang |
What materials do you typically use for your sculptures?
My sculpting process typically begins with metal or wooden armatures, followed by the application of clay, either water-based or oil-based. After sculpting, I create molds using materials like silicone or plaster, and the final piece can be cast in various materials like plaster, resin, concrete, or bronze. Personally, I prefer hydro resin for the final cast.
Can you walk us through your artistic process? How do you go from concept to completion on a project?
My creative process often begins with something or someone that fascinates or inspires me, whether it's a cultural tradition, heritage, or an emotional experience. After conceptualizing, I delve into research to deepen my understanding of the subject. Then, with a clear mental image, I embark on the sculpting journey, allowing new ideas to emerge and evolve along the way until the envisioned creation materializes into reality.
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| Sculptures by Bahom Kaling Darang |
Over the years, how have advancements in technology impacted the art world? And how do you foresee this evolving in the future?
I believe technology has mostly positively impacted the art world, providing accessibility to inspiration and educational resources, especially for self-taught artists like myself. While advancements like 3D printers may raise questions about the future of sculpture, I remain optimistic, drawing parallels to how photography didn't diminish painting but rather birthed a new art form. As art evolves alongside technology, there will always be individuals who find solace and beauty in its expression.
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| Sculptures by Bahom Kaling Darang |
Lastly, could you share a bit about your upbringing and family background?
Hailing from the picturesque landscapes of Arunachal Pradesh, specifically Pasighat, my upbringing was deeply influenced by my father's career as a civil servant. Early on, I embarked on a journey of education at Ramakrishna Mission School, Narottam Nagar, in the Tirap district, where boarding life sculpted my character from a tender age of six. Reflecting on those formative years, I attribute much of who I am today to the experiences and lessons learned during my time at the boarding school.
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| Sculptures by Bahom Kaling Darang |
