Jamshedpur, Jan. 14: Anamorphosis artist Avtar Singh Virdi — a Guinness record holder — has got a chance to exhibit his work at the famous Saatchi Art Gallery in London. But because of a financial crunch he has approached corporate houses to finance his trip.

Leading a quiet life in a narrow by-lane of Agrico in Jamshedpur, Virdi recently received an invitation from the London-based gallery, which has promoted the work of over 200 artists in the past two decades.

Artists like Jitesh Kallat and Anjoli Ela Menon are a few Indians whose work has been displayed there. And now it is Virdi’s turn.

“A few days ago, Vinita Sreepada, the owner of Saatchi Art Gallery wrote to me saying that they would organise a solo exhibition of my paintings completely on their expense,” said Virdi, who is one of the few free hand anamorphosis artists in the world. Saatchi has also offered to display his work in an online gallery.

“We will soon start sending some of my father’s latest work for the online exhibition. As soon as we arrange for sponsorship we will confirm the offer,” said his son B.S. Virdi.

Virdi has made portraits of leading sportsperons, film stars and politicians. “Sachin Tendulkar and Saurav Ganguly have had their portraits made by me at their homes,” said Virdi.

Leonardo Da Vinci did the original anamorphosis painting. But what got Virdi started? “I started around 45 years ago when a car pulled up next to my vehicle and threw a distorted reflection on the mirror. I felt like painting that picture,” said Virdi.

He is perhaps the only artist who makes these paintings without any mathematical calculations. Right now he is preparing a fresh stock of paintings. “Most of my previous work has been displayed. I am trying to add to my collection. But the offer from London has surely come as a surprise,” he said.

Next January, Virdi would head to Mumbai for a solo week-long exhibition at the renowned Jehangir Art Gallery. Also coming up is an exhibition in Pune.

“Though I have a world record, few people know me. Maybe I will get my due soon,” said the artist.