Balaji’s use of specific visual devices, grids, frames, photography, text, repetitive compositions and attempts at subversion can be read as the post

modern tools of visual articulations. His usage of soot serves as a formal aesthetic device and a definitive signifier. Balaji’s works are “textual” and it 

is here that Balaji’s earlier engagement with the popular sign boards and vehicle paintings come to the fore. The texts in his paintings are themselves 

the titles of the paintings, often relating directly to the visuals and bringing in contradiction/oppositions within the paintings. The text acts more as a

pun and are supported visually where the texts are erased or opened up for play by use of soot.

“My present work titled, ‘Black – smoke’ series is the result of nearly my year long indulgence and preoccupation with this concept, along with sly 

humor which has been an intrinsic part of my work, since my early days. The titles of my works are significant acts, in themselves for through them, 

I cajole people to look and observe my work in a specific manner, sometimes, like almost filling in a blank. Though the humor in my work might seem 

overt, it operates in a more subtle and ironic manner often laced with serious sub context, I usually engage with concepts, which are part of popular 

usage, making them more accessible, for example: ‘Diwali for some body, disaster for so many’, ‘India is great, But I am not’. Initially, I was interested 

in transforming the forms which I taken from my immediate life, but now I try to keep the form intact and juxtapose it with text to generate multiple 

possibilities and meanings. The fusion of verbal and visual intentions is a valid means of achieving my communicative intentions.” – Balaji Ponna.

If we try to trace linearity in Balaji’s works we can infer how he himself has taken a journey in understanding the concept of nationality through his 

works. In the process of reimaging the nation today Balaji questions the very Bourgeoisie concept of national boundaries and asks for a space free from 

restrictions and borders.

Balaji Ponna has participated in various group shows over the last couple of years including’ The July Show’ at The Guild and ‘Are We Like This Only’ 

at Vadehra Art Gallery, Delhi.