Retrospective on modernist KG Subramanyan on in Bengaluru

The Padma Vibhushan artist’s works are on display at the Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath from May 11 to May 20

The research-based retrospective One Hundred Years and Counting at the Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath (CKP), features Indian artist and Padma Vibhushan awardee, KG Subramanyan’s wide collection of works. Curated by cultural theorist Nancy Adajania, the exhibition provides an insight not only into the artist’s life, but also the context of his works and philosophies. 

“KG Subramanyan was a versatile modernist whose works span nearly seven decades. In the setting of a fine arts college (CKP), I feel Nancy’s research-oriented exhibition has benefitted our students the most. The art works are not arranged chronologically, but in a comprehensive manner which helps in educating students about this valuable part of art history,” says Sheetal CP, Assistant Professor at the Art History Department, Chitrakala Parishath. 

The exhibition includes elaborate write-ups to give social and political context to the artist’s life, works and inspiration; it also includes the works of some of his students. On display at CKP are his works created with different media such as acrylic, watercolour and oil, sketches using pencil and pen, cutouts, paintings in children’s books, wooden toys and murals, among others.

Arranged across four galleries, one can see how Subramanyan transitioned from traditional blending to cubist, post-cubist, and modernist styles over time. Sheetal says, “He is a relevant artist to study because he hasn’t stuck to a particular style, but has explored different media and techniques.” 

Ritika S, a student pursuing her Masters in Printmaking at the college says, “KG Subramanyan was a sculptor, painter and muralist who experimented in a lot of things. I learned a lot by observing his works up close.” 

“Other than understanding art history, a lot of our students gained firsthand experience on how to set up for an exhibition. They worked closely with the curator and helped in framing the art pieces, measuring and even placing them on the walls,” adds Sheetal. 

Another highlight of this curation is that it exhibits pieces that were not included in its first iteration at Emami Art, Kolkata. For instance, Subramanyan’s major paintings such as Chinnamasta (1991), Girl with Cat Boy (1991), Birbhum Nativity (1991), Devi II and III (2008) and Madonna and Child (2005), which have not been shown to the public in decades have been specially added to this show in Bengaluru.