Chandra Morkonda

(b. 1989, Srikalahasthi, Andhra Pradesh) is a contemporary Indian painter whose practice intertwines mythology, spirituality, nature, and memories of his rural upbringing. Raised in a family of weavers, he grew up surrounded by the vibrant colours, patterns, and rhythms of textiles—an early influence that continues to resonate through the richly layered surfaces of his paintings.

Trees and goddesses occupy a central place in Morkonda’s imagery, most notably in his Kalpavriksha series. Banyan, Neem, and Pipal trees appear alongside Shiva, Maha Lakshmi, and Maha Vishnu, while symbols such as the Trishul and Sri-Chakram deepen the works’ spiritual and mythological associations. Animals, birds, and intricate patterns further populate these imagined landscapes, where the natural and divine coexist in a world of symbolism. Working primarily in acrylic and oil, Morkonda builds his compositions through vibrant colour, layered textures, and patterns informed by Indian folk and tribal traditions. His years at Santiniketan played an important role in shaping this visual language, particularly his sustained fascination with trees. The colours and ornamental richness of his paintings carry echoes of his childhood exposure to weaving, alongside a continuing engagement with India’s traditional crafts and sacred imagery.

Morkonda received his BFA from JNTU, Hyderabad, and MFA from Visva-Bharati University, Santiniketan, and was honoured with the State Award from Potti Sreeramulu Telugu University, Hyderabad. Across this journey, his practice has continued to evolve while remaining rooted in the meeting of nature, mythology, and memory.