P.T Reddy

Pakala Thirumal Reddy, an exceptional draughtsman, is known for his fluid lines and mastery of form. Born into a farmer's family in Andhra Pradesh's Karimnagar district, Reddy defied his family's opposition to pursue art and studied painting at Sir J. J. School of Art, Bombay, on a scholarship. In 1941, he co-founded the Contemporary Painters of Bombay collective, predating the famous Progressive Artists’ Group.

Reddy worked as a freelance artist in Bombay, contributing to the film industry as an art director and working in commercial studios and printing presses. He later established a furnishing industry in Hyderabad from 1947-67, before returning to full-time painting in the 1950s.

Reddy's art evolved from realistic and expressionistic portraits, still-lifes, and landscapes to abstract compositions influenced by tantric art and folk motifs. He also trained in mural design and was familiar with Rajput and Pahari miniature styles. Reddy received multiple awards, including gold, silver, and bronze medals from various art societies, the Dolly Cursetjee award, and the Mayo scholarship for murals. He also founded the Sudharma Art Gallery in Hyderabad, leaving a lasting impact on the Indian art scene.