He creates concepts and not objects. His work is not separated from the environment, but is an intrinsic part of life, reflecting ideas, images, sensations and exploring deep emotions. “My work is a way to share my experiences with others,’’ UK-based sculptor Avtarjeet Dhanjal shares the philosophy of his art and inspirations at a lecture and slide show, Beyond the Object, organized by the Chandigarh Lalit Kala Akademi. Life’s a journey and Avtar is a traveller, a nomad, who feels the space and silence and presents an idea, be it in old buildings, parks, museums, beaches, with rock, sand, slate, wood, candles. His guide, something within him, which always tells him what to do...”Life has been generous with me. My learning began watching my father’s carpentry skills and the village craftsmen carving images,’’ Avtar goes back in time, to the Arts College, his travels through Africa, Ethiopia, Zambia, the St Martin’s Art School, galleries...Prose or poetry, most of his works begin with that, so that he can feel the spirit of the place...as he shows you a rock he has carved in a park, with a big bowl in the middle...to be filled with rain water for the birds to bathe again and again....or his series using candles and the amazing play of light and darkness that it creates. “There was no electricity in our village and this is something from my childhood. When I carve and create, I hope people will take back a piece, thought or image in their heart and head, for I allow my true self to come out and then the sensitivity guides me on. Imagination is the core of my works,’’ Avtar combines in himself the earthiness of the rural landscape, consciousness of India’s spiritual heritage and the intense search for a sense of being and belonging.