PRASAD BHAT IN CONVERSATION WITH SHALINI PASSI

Prasad Bhat is a self-taught digital artist and illustrator based in Bangalore, India, known for his signature caricature style and witty storytelling. Founder of Graphicurry, his artwork blends humor, pop culture, and intricate detailing to create striking illustrations, often featuring iconic characters from movies, TV shows, and history. Prasad’s work has gained international recognition, with exhibitions in India and abroad, and collaborations with global brands. His animated series, The Evolution, capturing the transformation of actors across their careers, has become a fan favorite. Combining creativity with sharp observations, Prasad continues to push boundaries in the realm of digital art.

Caricature of Salvador Dalí

Photo courtesy: Prasad Bhat

SP: Who are your subjects, and what inspires you to depict them?

PB: My subjects are people, and I’m endlessly inspired by how each person looks so distinct. As a kid, I remember observing my dad, who was very expressive. He was often stressed and worried about finances, but there was something comical about his expressions that made me want to capture them. I’d draw him, and it would bring a smile to his face. That feeling has stayed with me; if my art can make people smile, even for a few seconds, it’s worth it.

Caricature of Clint Eastwood’s “the Good” from The Good, the Bad and the Ugly (1966)

Photo courtesy: Prasad Bhat

SP: How did you develop Graphicurry’s unique style? Is there one piece that really captures its essence?

PB: There isn’t just one piece that captures Graphicurry’s essence, but rather several that showcase its evolution. Recently, I worked on a piece for Shalini that took the style to a new level by using monotone colors and polygonal shapes. It’s these kinds of explorations that keep Graphicurry’s style evolving and help capture its unique aesthetic.

Caricature of Tom Cruise from Edge of Tomorrow (2014)

Photo courtesy: Prasad Bhat

SP: You have featured such memorable characters from pop culture, like Mickey Mouse. How was it making art for such an iconic character, and how did you try to capture its unique style?

PB: Disney approached me for Mickey Mouse’s 90th birthday and provided a 600-page guideline for creating an evolution series of Mickey over the years. I followed their guidelines and created the artwork, but then they asked me to interpret Mickey in my own style. It was then that I realized I had my own unique style, that moment was a revelation.

Caricature of Indian Politicians

Photo courtesy: Prasad Bhat
Caricature of Uma Thurman’s Mia Wallace from Pulp Fiction (1994)

Photo courtesy: Prasad Bhat

SP: Do share a glimpse of what you’re currently working on. Which of your past projects do you believe has made the greatest impact on you?

PB: My current project is a bit of a secret, so I’ll keep it under wraps for now! As for past projects, I’d say most of the evolution series I’ve done for iconic characters have left a lasting impact on me. There’s something special about capturing the timelessness of these characters and reimagining their journey in my own style.

Caricature of Sanjay Dutt from Yalgaar (1992)

Photo courtesy: Prasad Bhat
Caricature of Tupac Shakur

Photo courtesy: Prasad Bhat

SP: Your art style leans toward minimalism. How do you define that, and how do you find what to highlight in each of your illustrations?

PB: Minimalism in my work is about capturing a person’s likeness with as few strokes as possible. Often, I create a piece and then remove elements until only the essentials remain. I follow the philosophy that good art isn’t when there’s nothing left to add, but when there’s nothing left to remove. This approach helps me find the essence of each subject while maintaining simplicity.

Caricature of Shalini Passi’s iconic look from the Netflix Series, ‘Fabulous Lives vs Bollywood Wives’

Photo courtesy: Prasad Bhat

SP: What advice would you like to give to young emerging talent who are trying to find their voices in the art world?

PB: It’s essential to find a unique style that feels true to you. When you discover your own style, it becomes your signature and sets you apart. Embrace limitations, they can lead to unexpected breakthroughs, and don’t be afraid to take an unconventional path. 

 

Image Courtesy: Prasad Bhat 

Find out more about the artist and his artworks: https://www.prasadbhat.com/
https://www.graphicurrystore.com/ 

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