Prokash Karmarkar

“I do not want my paintings to be imprisoned within four walls” 

Prokash Karmarkar’s (1933- 2014) practice was an outcome of colossal ramification of darkest moments of the Bengal partition. Karmarkar’s stimulating paintings express the erosion of moral codes, integrity, and virtuous human behaviours. Set to portray insipid moments, his oeuvre is a testimony to the turbulent times of the past. 

Born in a creative family, Karmarkar was far from being deprived of guidance and inspiration. Nevertheless, destiny works in inquisitive ways! After the death of his parents during the Hindu-Muslim riots, Karmarkar had to give up his training at the Government College of Art and Craft, Kolkata. Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, Prokash overcame poverty and misfortune, venting uncertainty and dejection into his paintings. Interestingly, Karmarkar had joined the army for two years, which he had quit on account of pursuing graphic design.

Karmarkar, in the quest about complex human existence, traversed various avenues of inspiration like Nirode Mazumdar. Fostering the simplicity of the aesthetic evolution of a human body, his exercises were meant to express the hypocrisy of social-political symbols and personal turmoil. Subtly evoking, his linear sketches are rhythmic and provocative!

Karmarkar’s art is rendered with the distinguishing use of watercolours, oil paints, inks, and acrylics. Focusing profusely on the discordant balance in his works, the viewers are compelled to probe the empathic value.  He had also received a French fellowship to study in Paris, France.

Prokash Karmakar’s illustrious career witnessed many great works and they have found permanent residence in the National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi, and various other galleries and museums across India. He was one of the founders of the artists' collective Society of Contemporary Artists.