Appalachari Chalapaka (b.1987) is a distinguished printmaker from Andhra Pradesh, currently based in the scenic district of Visakhapatnam. His journey into art began with a profound curiosity for traditional mediums, particularly woodcuts, etchings, and lithography, influenced by the abundant natural beauty of his surroundings.

Chalapaka’s art uniquely blends realism and symbolism to capture the grandeur of urban development, industrialization, and cultural heritage. His works often showcase monumental structures and dynamic cityscapes, celebrating the intricate patterns and magnificence of architectural change while honoring global progress and historical legacy. Influenced by his formative years spent closely observing building artisans and rice farms, Chalapaka's keen observational skills and fascination with human labor are central to his art. His artistic language is a conscious symphony reflecting the rhythm and coordination of construction processes, incorporating textures and colors that resonate deeply with his subject matter. He often includes clouds to signify future development, a testament to his visionary approach. Primarily working in pen and ink for quick expression and woodcut for semi-realistic urban landscapes, Chalapaka’s art portrays the dynamic changes in construction. Multi-layered structures represent strength, with buildings, temples, and forts serving as living examples of cultural resilience and advancement. Just as these structures boast multiple storeys, so too does his work exhibit layered storytelling. His medium captures the primitive stages of construction, while pillars and buildings reaching toward the heavens symbolize the profound changes and expansive nature of progress.

Chalapaka honed his craft with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Printmaking from Andhra University, Andhra Pradesh (2011), and a Master of Fine Arts from Visva Bharati University, West Bengal (2013). Enriched by numerous workshops and residencies across India, including the National Traditional & Tribal Painting Workshop and the International Symposium Iron Scrap Workshop, his talent has garnered significant recognition with awards such as the Sri Varada Venkata Ratnam Award and the Prof. Vissa Apparel Memorial Award. Featured in prestigious exhibitions nationwide, including the Lalit Kala Academy in New Delhi and the Jahangir Art Gallery in Mumbai, Chalapaka has solidified his reputation as a prominent figure in contemporary Indian printmaking.