Born in the town of Shimoga in Karnataka, BO Shailesh works with the multifaceted and composite feelings and emotions that human beings experience and express. As he admits, many of these explorations deal with the experiences of his youth, and the searching nature of a young man who finds everything in his environment interesting or noteworthy. 

After earning his bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts in 1993, Bo embarked on a journey as a freelance artist, establishing his studio in the renowned Cholamandal Artists’ Village in Chennai. Over the years, he has honed his craft across a wide spectrum of visual art forms, including painting, sculpture, installation, and video art.

A deep fascination with Yoga—where the human body twists, bends, and flows into intricate and powerful postures—has been a recurring theme in Bo’s artistic expression. This inspiration is vividly reflected in his paintings and sculptures, where he captures the essence of movement, balance, and harmony.

His work transcends mere physicality, delving into profound relationships: man’s bond with animals, the interplay between humanity and nature, and the spiritual connection between man and the divine. Each piece offers a unique interpretation of these themes, with yogic poses serving as a central motif.

Bo’s art continues to evolve, pushing the boundaries of form and symbolism, inviting viewers into a world where the physical and metaphysical meet, creating a dialogue that resonates with universal truths.

Bo’s work explores the experience of his youth - shyness, love, eroticism, rebellion, visions of freedom, confusion. His paintings are memories made manifest.

Bo received Tamil Nadu State Award in 2016, Camlin Art Foundation Award in 2012, Lyon Award in France in year 2008 to name a few. He is recipient of several other awards and accolades since his college days. His works feature in Germany, Korea, France and Hyatt Regency in Chennai, Lalit Kala Akademi and many private collectors.