Ram Kumar

Ram Kumar (1924-2018) was one of the leading abstract artists during post-independent India. His take on modernist art captures the internal conflict that one embodies in a state of indecision. Ram is also one of the few artists who transitioned from figurative to abstract practice. Highly regarded for his sophisticated techniques, his artworks have fetched high value both in the domestic and international art market. 

Kumar’s journey in art began when he was inducted into Sharda Ukil School of Art, New Delhi. His futuristic western style of art was inspired by Sailoz Mookherjee, who took him under his wing. It was until 1950 when Kumar left India to travel to Paris that his art began to recourse from his conventional style. Here, he found many patrons through his involvement in the pacifist peace movement. 

On his return to India, Ram withdrew from his figurative style of art and pursued abstract expressionist technique. This was due to the discontent in post-colonial India, the changes and progress that he had envisioned for the country appeared to him as worthless. No longer pursuing the conventions, Ram generated his disillusion by adapting abstract landscapes through the use of oil or acrylic. Interestingly, a simple man, Kumar’s friendship with noted abstract artists like VS Gaitonde, SH Raza, MF Hussain, among others, paved an incredible ingenuity in his works.

Kumar was an artist who never suppressed the deep-seated roots of his motherland. Though his art was of a western-modern approach, his subjects were distinctively Indian. His visit to the holy city of Varanasi in India was also a guiding element towards his panoramic transition. Displaying spiritual tranquillity, his sweeping landscapes or ‘metascapes’ are replete with natural constitutions. He uses strong vibrant colours that provide a reprieve from reality. 

Being a part of a high-value artists’ league, his works have been exhibited worldwide. Ram Kumar was a recipient of reputed awards, which comprise Kalidas Samman, Padma Bhusan and Padmashri.