The art exhibition, ‘The Four' is the living tribute to the legacy of the masters of modern Indian art, writes ABHI SINGHAL

The art galleries escalate your thoughts when you see artists painting their thoughts in the liveliest way possible. All the canvases depict a different story, a different world of emotions, and a different language. The same canvases are interpreted by the viewers in their own way, their own thoughts and that’s the beauty of art. The art communicates without words, leading people to find words in patterns and strokes. ‘The Four’ exhibition presented by the Progressive Art Gallery in collaboration with The Raza Foundation celebrated the birth centenary of four icons of modern Indian art.

The Four exhibitions was the celebration of all the four legendary artists namely, Francis Newton Souza, K. G. Subramanyan, Ram Kumar, and Vasudev S. Gaitonde. The guests explored the historic and remarkable legacy of the four artists. The common ground of all the celebrated artists is that they were all born in 1924. The exhibition is opened at Triveni Kala Sangam, New Delhi commemorating the 100 years since the birth of these modern masters. The Goan artist, Francis Newton Souza oil on canvas paintings Still Life, Profile of a Man are an exemplary notion that drew people to his distinctive style evolved into a more expressive and abstract approach, using vibrant colours and bold brushstrokes.

Being in name for exploration of human figures, often depicted in a raw and unfiltered manner, F.N. Souza’s painting Profile of a Man is an example of the same. Souza's style was characterised by strong lines, distorted forms and a dark palette, which he used to explore human emotion, social hypocrisy and religious paradoxes.

K.G. Subramanyan known for his polymorphic works made in diverse media ranging from paintings, water colours and reverse painting on glass to murals is showcased in his work of Ragini Vibhas and Peacock Throne displayed at the Progressive Art Gallery.

Inspired through his travels from Varanasi, Ram Kumar depicts human figures to capture the inner essence and spirituality of landscapes. The untitled paintings of Kumar are an example of the same. The fourth but not the least V.S. Gaitonde’s paintings assume no shape and form and evoke nothing other than themselves and beautiful patterns. He represents a dynamic force in modern Indian painting, capturing the essence of an independent nation and its cultural awakening.

The show is curated by art historian Yashodhara Dalmia, and was inaugurated by H.E. Dr. Philipp Ackermann, Ambassador of Germany to India. It is on public view till November 10, 2024. 

Together the birth centenary of these four artistry icons is all about diverse thoughts and mindful thinking. ‘The Four’ exhibition honours these artists but also celebrates the strength and originality of Indian art over the past century.