5 Indian Artists You Should Consider for Your Art Collection

January 30, 2024
Vibrant S H Raza masterpiece 'Bindu' available for acquisition, showcasing a mesmerizing blue concentric circle symbolizing the seed of life amid a colorful geometric patterned background, reflecting the synthesis of Indian philosophy and modern art.

 

This article introduces the thriving market and growing global interest in Indian contemporary art. This concise article highlights five groundbreaking artists, showcasing the diversity and vibrancy of India's art scene. It's a must-read for anyone keen to explore the dynamic world of Indian art.

 

Raja Ravi Varma (1848-1906)

 

Considered India's most iconic artist, Varma's detailed and realistic portrayals of Hindu deities and mythology remain deeply loved. His talent blossomed early and was nurtured by his supportive uncle who recognized his passion, and provided him with rudimentary lessons in painting. At just 14, he caught the eye of the Maharaja of Travancore, who became his patron and facilitated his artistic development.

 

Painting titled 'Shakuntala Removing a Thorn from Her Foot' by Ravi Varma, 1898, depicting the mythological character Shakuntala in a forest setting, gracefully seated while removing a thorn from her foot, showcasing Ravi Varma's mastery in blending Indian mythology with realism.

Raja Ravi Varma, Shakuntala Removing Thorn From Foot, 1898, The Ganesh Shivaswamy Foundation, Bengaluru

 

He largely honed his skills independently, studying anatomy and perspective from books and observing traditional Indian miniature paintings and European prints. This self-taught approach fostered his remarkable originality and adaptability. His thirst for knowledge led him to seek distinct techniques. He embarked on a pivotal journey to Europe in 1873, immersing himself in the Italian Renaissance and academic realism.

 

Raja Ravi Varma, Expectation, 1893, Private Collection

 

In 1894, Varma's collaboration with American lithographer Fritz Schleicher to reproduce his paintings ignited controversy. Hindu conservatives raised concerns about the accessibility of sacred depictions for mass consumption. This episode highlights the complex cultural climate in which Varma navigated his artistic expression.

 

Raja Ravi Varma, Indrajit Presenting To His Father Ravana The Trophies Of His Conquest Of Swarga, 1905, Raja Ravi Varma Heritage Foundation, Bengaluru

 

The Ravi Varma Fine Art Lithographic Press was established in Bombay (now Mumbai) and commenced operations in 1894. Many of Ravi Varma's paintings were printed as chromolithographs at this Press. These chromolithographs would have a tremendous impact on religion, society and aesthetics.

 

Sayed Haider Raza (1922-2016)

 

Renowned for his vibrant geometric canvases and profound connection to spirituality, Raza is one of the founding members of the Progressive Artists' Group. His abstract geometric painting, often inspired by his childhood memories and Hindu philosophy, are vibrant and meditative.

 

Abstract painting 'Universe' by S H Raza from 1993, featuring geometric patterns and symbols, vibrant colors, and cosmic elements in a grid-like composition reflecting the artist's signature Bindu and tributes to Indian cosmology.

Sayed Haider Raza, Universe, 1993, Museum of Art and Photography, Bengalore

 

Growing up in the lush forests of Madhya Pradesh, India, he found inspiration in the vibrant flora and fauna surrounding him. He was already making charcoal sketches by the age of 12, and thereby displaying an innate talent for capturing the essence of his surroundings.

 

In 1950, Raza received a scholarship to study at the École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris. This pivotal moment marked a turning point in his artistic journey, which exposed him to the burgeoning avant-garde movement and the works of leading artists like Picasso and Braque.

 

Sayed Haider Raza, Soleil Noir, 2007,  Bronze, Private collection

 

In the 1970s, Raza's artistic vocabulary underwent a transformation. He returned to his Indian roots, seeking inspiration in ancient philosophies and symbolism. The "bindu," a Sanskrit word signifying the primordial point of creation, became his signature motif, appearing in countless paintings as a radiant circle symbolizing cosmic energy and spiritual awakening.

 

Raza's artistic legacy extends beyond his paintings. He established the Raza Foundation in Delhi, fostering the growth of young artists and nurturing the Indian art scene. His dedication to education and mentorship further solidified his commitment to shaping the future of Indian art.

 

Amrita Sher-Gil (1913-1941)

 

One of the most prominent female artists of the 20th century and pioneers of modern Indian art, Amrita Sher-Gill was born to an Indian Sanskrit scholar and Hungarian vocalist. She absorbed influences from both East and West. 
 
She was trained at École des Beaux-Arts in Paris and subsequently got influenced by Cézanne, Modigliani, and Gauguin. Upon her return to India, she was dissatisfied with her contemporaries' focus on landscapes and went on to paint vibrant and emotionally charged paintings that depicted everyday life with profound empathy, especially for women. 

 

 1935 painting 'Three Girls' by Amrita Sher-Gil, featuring a trio of young women in traditional attire, rendered in earthy tones, reflecting the introspective and somber mood characteristic of Sher-Gil's work and highlighting her focus on the lives of Indian women.

Amrita Sher-Gil, Three Girls, 1935, National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi

 

Works like "Three Girls" and "Bride's Toilet" bridge post impressionistic painting styles with marginalized subjects. Although not directly part of the Bengal Renaissance, Sher-Gil's art engaged with many of its ideas while simultaneously challenging its limitations. Her focus on social themes and her raw emotional expressiveness earned her a distinct place in the history of Indian art.
 
Despite her short life, Sher-Gil achieved exceptional recognition. She was the youngest artist ever elected to the Grand Salon in Paris, showcasing her talent on a global stage. 

 

Amrita Sher-Gil, Bride's Toilet, 1937, National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi

 
To prevent her artworks from being dispersed internationally, the Indian government mandates that any sales must keep her artwork within the country. Her legacy shines bright, inspiring generations of artists and preserving her place as one of India's most treasured cultural icons.

 

Maqbool Fida Husain (1915-2011)

 

Raised by his father, a dedicated timekeeper, Husain witnessed both artistic vibrancy in Indore's cultural scene and the realities of hardship facing the everyday man. Despite his father's initial disapproval about his artistic pursuits, Husain found support and inspiration within the broader community of artists around him. His mother passed away in his infancy and his family dynamics played a key role in shaping his artistic spirit.
 
Before becoming a celebrated painter, he worked as an assistant to a cinema hoarding artist in Mumbai. He was very fascinated by Bollywood and even designed costumes and sets for several films, showcasing his versatility and willingness to engage with popular culture. 

 

Maqbool Fida Husain, Hindu Triad, 2008-2011, Collection of Usha Mittal

 

Husain often depicted scenes from Indian mythology and life, and employed a style based in Cubism. His controversial portrayal of religious subjects pushed the limits of censorship in India. However, he remained unapologetic, even drawing comparisons to a gladiator fighting for artistic freedom and challenging societal norms.
 
Following escalating controversies, threats to his safety, and numerous lawsuits, Husain reluctantly left India in 2006 and spent his last five years in self-imposed exile. This period was marked by a profound sense of longing and reflection, evident in his final works.
 
Several of Husain's later works including My Childhood in Indore, portray the recurring motifs of horses, bulls, and street performers that are evocative of his early life.

 

Maqbool Fida Husain, My Childhood in Indore, 1981, Private Collection

 

One of Husain's most ambitious projects, a 40-foot canvas depicting the River Ganges, remained unfinished at the time of his death. This enigmatic work, with its layers of symbolism and unfinished forms, serves as a poignant reminder of his creative spirit and unfulfilled artistic ambitions.
 
Despite the exile, Husain remained a celebrated figure internationally. He passed away on June 9, 2011 in London. Today, his works can be found at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the National Gallery of Modern Art in Mumbai, and the National Museum of Islamic Art in Doha among others.
 

Tyeb Mehta (1925-2009)

 
Tyeb Mehta was an Indian artist who was born in Kapadvanj, Gujarat, India and rose to the forefront of the country's post-colonial art scene. He graduated from Sir J.J. School of Art in Mumbai and later traveled to London, where he lived for five years. This experience exposed him to a wider range of artistic influences, including the work of Indian miniature painters.
 

While his early works depicted the harrowing reality of Partition, Mehta later transcended its immediacy. The "Falling Bird" series, for instance, symbolized a universal concept of existential vulnerability, resonating beyond the context of his personal experience.

 

 
Tyeb Mehta, Untitled (Falling Figure), 1965, Private Collection in New York
 

Mehta's signature use of the diagonal composition wasn't just an artistic choice. He discovered its potential while visiting a temple in Goa, where the sunlight falling across the courtyard created a diagonally divided space. This inspired him to explore the dynamic tension and sense of movement it evoked.

 

 
Tyeb Mehta, Untitled, 1973, Private collection
 
He has won numerous awards, including the Padma Bhushan, India's third-highest civilian honor. His work is included in the collections of major museums around the world, including the National Gallery of Modern Art in New Delhi, the Museum of Modern Art in New York, annd the Tate Modern in London.
 
Mehta was a passionate advocate for young artists. He established the Tyeb Mehta Memorial Trust to nurture Indian artistic talent and provide opportunities for growth.
 

Wrapping up our artistic journey, we've dipped into the palettes of Varma, Sher-Gil, Raza, Husain, and Mehta—masters who've sketched India's story onto the global canvas. Keen on adding a splash of their genius to your walls or just curious to learn more? Reach out to us. We’re here to color in the details.

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