Nandalal Bose

Born in Bihar, Nandalal Bose (1882-1966) was one of the guiding forces behind the quasi-renaissance of art in India. He proved to be a great asset in the modernization of Indian art and a trailblazer in bringing notable reforms. Importantly, he was critical in re-engagement of traditional art and shaping the future congregation of the then shifting tides concerning the context, form and representation.

Towards his relentless contribution, the Government of India bestowed on him the second-highest civilian award, Padma Vibushan in 1954. But Bose’s journey to fame and recognition was not always exuberant. He faced numerous rejections and lack of support in the earlier years from his family. It was Bose’s adherence to his practice that justifies his vigour and persistence.  

Under the guidance of Abanindranath Tagore, Bose was encouraged to develop and share his virtuous calibre. His paintings expressed a great inclination to the freedom movement, which includes his portrait of Mahatma Gandhi of his protest against the taxation of salt. Bose’s paintings were noted for preserving aesthetic, indigenous and artistic value. 

Bose was resolute in depicting Indian subjects and traditions. Though some of his techniques leaned towards the European style, he was instrumental in the delineation of mundane lives of village people. His works included landscapes, scenes from villages, Indian mythologies, women, and portraits. 

His classical artworks form a compatible bridge between contemporary art and historical heritage. With rich saturated colours and unvarying tones, Bose’s paintings create a positive outlook with refined strokes. Highly regarded for his modernism in the Indian art scene, the Government of India commissioned him to illustrate the Constitution of India. Bose’s works are declared as art treasures by the Department of Culture, India. 

Kick-starting his glorious career in art, his paintings were exhibited at Athenee Gallery, Geneva, Indian School of Oriental Art, National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi, The Netherlands, and Imperial Institute of England, to name a few.