Elephant parade at night

The central theme of Hebbar's art has always been man. In the early works, as seen here, this is reflected through his depictions of aspects of Indian life such as the local festivals and daily activities of the common man. In later works, this translates into his preoccupation with man's scientific and technological advances, and the works often reflect his associated fears. These works are often pervaded by a sense of gloom where as in this work "expresses in its own subtle way a clear sense of joie de vivre." (S.I. Clerk, 'Hebbar's Concern with Man', Lalit Kala Contemporary 24-25, New Delhi, 1981, p. 31.) In this capacity, elements of music and dance are visible and necessary in Hebbar's works. As seen here, the presence of musicians permeate the work with a general air of festivity, in keeping with the theme of the parade. In later works, the integral component of music shifts from figural representations to the more abstract symbolism of sound patterns created through the use of colour.