Saurabh Suryan is an architect-turned-artist whose practice spans a diverse array of mediums, including photography, film, creative direction, books, and exhibitions. Often referred to as the “Man Who Lived at the Airport,” Suryan’s life has been shaped by a transient existence, a narrative he channels into his artistic expression. Early professional experiences at esteemed studios such as Studio Mumbai and Sameep Padora laid the groundwork for his understanding of design communication and spatial storytelling.
Suryan’s work is deeply inspired by the Indian landscape and the philosophy of self-made design. He is constantly in search of new languages, mediums, and practices that allow him to better express himself and the world around him. This relentless curiosity defines his approach, making his practice both exploratory and adaptive.
His sources of inspiration are as eclectic as his work. From the monumental sculptures of Richard Serra to the architectural sensibilities of Geoffrey Bawa and Peter Zumthor, and the raw, evocative photography of Daido Moriyama, Suryan draws on a wide spectrum of creative influences. These inspirations inform his exploration of space, form, and light, which often feature prominently in his projects.
Suryan believes that a change of environment is essential to overcoming creative blocks. Whether shifting between cities or altering his immediate surroundings, he thrives on the stimulation of new perspectives. This philosophy extends to his workspace, which he describes as a highly calibrated environment—a meditative setting designed to enhance the rhythm of creation. His studio is not just a place for producing art but a space for thinking, editing, and refining ideas, allowing him to work with clarity and purpose.
Currently, Suryan is exploring prints, light installations, and product design as part of his ongoing artistic evolution. These projects aim to merge the personal with the physical, investigating how design can carry a slice of the artist’s identity. His recent series, Almost Home (featured in this story), is a poignant reflection on the idea of home and belonging. Documented through years of photography using a phone camera, the series captures the mundane yet profound aspects of daily life and the spaces that shape it. The imagery, featured in exhibitions, speaks to the universal quest for comfort and identity within transient environments.
As he moves into 2024, Suryan plans to further expand his creative repertoire by venturing into sculpture and product design. He sees these mediums as opportunities to deepen his engagement with materiality and form, offering new dimensions to his storytelling. His vision remains rooted in the idea of blending emotion and design, creating works that resonate with both personal and collective narratives.
Suryan’s journey is a testament to the power of exploration and adaptability in the creative process. By continuously seeking new modes of expression, he challenges conventional boundaries and invites his audience to do the same.
All images by Saurabh Suryan.
