But consistency lays artists open to the criticism of predictability. Maity doesn't have the ability to surprise the art world the way artists like Sudarshan Shetty or Jitish Kallat, who like to explore new languages of expression, do. This can leave some critics underwhelmed, and in turn constrain genuine appreciation.But as Apparao explains, "It really isn't fair to compare artists whose minds are working in such completely different areas. The basic parameters are so different."
So though Maity has worked in oils, acrylic and charcoal, it is as a watercolour artist that he continues to be best known. But even if the medium is constant (unlike those boats), he is always seeking the new. Most of this comes through his travels. Maity does not necessarily paint in the city he lives in, preferring instead to work in situ. In the last few years, this has meant Digha, Kodaikanal, Goa and Venice. "I am on the move at least eight months of the year. A senior artist recently told me I should be recognised by the ministry of tourism!" says Maity.
"But I stay on the move because I cannot bear to be stagnant, neither in a place nor in any style. There is always a new element in my paintings each time and within every theme."
And there's the tightrope walking. Katayun Saklat, who owns Gallery Katayun in Calcutta describes Maity's way of approaching a large painting of the Vivekananda Setu (a bridge across the Hoogly river) that had been commissioned by ITC: "It was a tight deadline. He woke up early in the morning and started work. Midway he left. I asked him, 'Where are you going—you haven't finished!' He said, 'I know what size this will be. I am going to the framers so the frame will be ready in time.' He came back and completed his painting of the bridge by night, which was far more difficult than painting it by day."
Saklat just has to add what is perhaps the classic Maity anecdote, one that might taint most other artists with arrogance: "He has oodles of confidence. Once we were walking around in London, and just decided to enter a competition held by the Royal Watercolour Society. Paresh said, 'I'll participate and win'"
And he did.
