M. Sivanesan had humble beginnings as the son of a farming family from a village in Southern India. He was self-taught until, in 1956, his talents were recognized, and he joined one of the oldest art institutions in India, the Madras College of Arts and Crafts (now known as the Government College of Fine Arts).

Sivanesan's art is deeply personal and introspective, often exploring themes of loneliness, love, and spirituality. His statements are not about social or political issues, but rather his work explores the inner world of human emotions and experiences. His paintings feature figures in everyday situations, and the artist believed that by depicting people in their natural environments, he could capture the essence of their humanity and the beauty he saw in them.

Sivanesan has exhibited his art widely in India and abroad, and for much of his career, he showed his work in New York each year. His works are held in collections around the world, and he has been recognized with numerous awards and honors. Despite his many successes, he remained committed to his art and created deeply personal and moving works that resonate with viewers around the world.