Exhibition at Triveni Kala Sangam honours centenary of four modern Indian art legends

Amid the season of festivals, there’s another captivating art exhibition to explore. Titled ‘The Four: Celebrating the Birth Centenary of Four Modern Indian Masters’, this exhibition showcases the iconic works of FN Souza, KG Subramanyan, Ram Kumar and VS Gaitonde at Triveni Kala Sangam in New Delhi from October 29 to November 10.

The event, organised by the Progressive Art Gallery in collaboration with the Raza Foundation, offers a unique opportunity to engage with diverse artworks that span oil paintings, acrylics and pen and ink on paper. Each piece reflects the distinct styles of these four masters, who share a common legacy, having all been born in 1924.

During the exhibition’s inauguration on Tuesday evening, Philipp Ackermann, Ambassador of Germany to India, said, “It is an honour to inaugurate this exhibition that celebrates the works of four exceptional artists who defined Indian modernity in art. Their vibrant, distinctly Indian styles convey both individuality and a collective spirit of India’s unique journey in modern art.”

Harsh Vardhan Singh, Director and CEO of the Progressive Art Gallery, emphasised the significance of this retrospective: “This exhibition is not merely a retrospective; it is a vibrant exploration of the themes, techniques and philosophies that define the works of Gaitonde, Souza, Kumar and Subramanyan. Their legacies serve as a lens through which we can explore themes of identity, memory and transformation.”

The exhibition presents a rich tapestry of artworks. As visitors enter, they are greeted by Souza’s captivating pieces on the left and Subramanyan’s vibrant creations on the right. Souza’s painting ‘Hamstead Terraces’, with its intriguing red hues, immediately captures attention, reflecting the artist’s raw emotions and unique fusion of western influences with Indian themes. “His work challenges societal norms and continues to resonate today,” noted Singh.

At the centre of the exhibition, Gaitonde’s untitled artwork, featuring a striking combination of red and yellow, has become a focal point, used as the backdrop for the event.

Singh described Gaitonde’s work as “a meditation on colour and form that elevates abstract art to new heights”.

Ram Kumar’s piece, ‘In Memory of Banaras’, stands out with its lush green tones, inspired by his travels through the holy city of Varanasi. “His transition from figurative to abstract landscapes offers viewers a profound connection to nature and the human spirit,” Singh explained.

Subramanyan’s ‘Leela’, dominated by deep blues, further adds to the exhibition’s allure, showcasing his ability to blend folk traditions with modern artistic expressions.

Eminent curator Yashodhara Dalmia highlighted the cultural legacy of these artists: “In their struggle to carve a meaningful path reflecting contemporary life, these artists became symbolic of the nation’s own journey. Each piece tells a story of resilience and artistic evolution.”

This exhibition not only honours the artistic contributions of Souza, Subramanyan, Kumar and Gaitonde, but also celebrates the vibrant tapestry of Indian art over the past century, inviting audiences to engage with the themes that continue to resonate in contemporary society.