Vir Kotak, Joint MD, J M Baxi Group has a rather unique take on collecting art

Most art works displayed by corporate collectors in their work space are pleasing to the eye. Not so with Vir Kotak, joint MD, JM Baxi Group.

Delhi-based Kotak believes in surrounding himself with works that give an insight into the human condition.

Behind his desk, Kotak has a small water colour on paper work by Arpita Singh, which he describes as being “quite pleasant to look at first, but it’s actually a dark subject matter”.

A 2015 piece titled Palmyra-Tailors & Drapers, it depicts the beheading of an archeologist in Syria by IS at the UNESCO world heritage site Palmyra.

“It deals with Syria as a humanitarian crisis. It’s nice to have it as a reminder that people can also be transient,” says Kotak, who recently
showcased his first solo photography show that focused on memories, in Mumbai.

The other painting that hangs on his office wall is the crucifixion of Christ by Rameshwar Broota, which Kotak says complements Singh’s work.

Why such dark themes? “I view it objectively, lighter, darker or happier,” he says, “Take your work seriously, not yourself.

Things can be done lot more efficiently if you know the difference between the two.”