Born amidst the rustic landscapes of Nerurpar in Maharashtra’s Ratnagiri district in 1946, he finished his graduation from Mumbai’s Sir J.J. School of Art in 1968 immersing himself in the city’s vibrant artistic scene.

Kolte’s distinguished trajectory is marked by a plethora of solo exhibitions and notable involvement in renowned group exhibitions, spanning both domestic and international arenas. His array of accolades, encompassing the esteemed “Walter Langhammer Award” granted by the Indo-German Cultural Society in 1978, alongside the prestigious “Kavi Kusumraj Award” and “Rupdhar Award” conferred by the Bombay Art Society in 2010, serve as a testament to his artistic brilliance. In 2015, Gwalior University bestowed upon him an honorary “Doctorate” in recognition of his unparalleled contributions to the realm of art.

In his nascent years, Kolte’s canvas bore the influence of Paul Klee, the Swiss maestro known for his intricate shapes and whimsical figures. Klee’s influence reverberated among Kolte’s peers at the J.J. School of Art in the late 1960s, leaving an indelible mark on his artistic sensibilities. His meticulous technique of weathering vibrant hues, infusing touches of white to imbue an aged patina upon bold colors is his defining style. His early masterpieces are characterized by a singular, dominant backdrop, upon which intricate geometric and organic forms dance in harmonious symphony.