Ramkinkar Baij’s water colours are totally different. They are neither western nor eastern in technique. They are a mystery, says Anindya Kanti Biswas, who organises an annual tribute to the sculptor-artist. By Team Viva
Students of sculptor-artist Ramkinkar Baij came together to keep the maestro and his philosophy alive at a time when committed and dedicated mentors are difficult to find. Wanderlust Nature was a eulogy celebrating the 111th birth anniversary of the pioneer of modern Indian sculpture. The exhibition showcased art brought forth by four different landscape artists who have been inspired by Baij’s body of work.
Anindya Kanti Biswas, who has been organising the exhibition for the past 14 years, said, “The first time I heard about Ramkinkar Baij was from my grandfather. At that time, I was only five years old but ever since then my interest in art only grew. Coming from the same village in Bankura where Baij was born, I really wanted to do something worthwhile in this field. I have been deeply influenced by his professional attitude which was totally different from other artists. He was humble and always quiet. It was only his brush that spoke. Also his water colour paintings are totally different, they are neither western nor eastern in technique. For me there has always been some mystery in his paintings.”
Talking about the tradition of celebrating Baij’s work, Biswas shared, “last year we celebrated Baij’s anniversary in Indore with his last student Dinanath Bhargava who passed away in December. He was a co-artist in the team that sketched the national emblem, the lion Capital of Ashoka, and decorated the pages of the Constitution’s manuscript. He has been the inspiration to many of the present artists and we all owe it to him.”
Manoj Kumar, a student from Shantiniketan, who grew up under the benign supervision of Baij said, “I believe that every institution has its cornerstone and for Shantiniketan, it was Baij. His presence was so enriching that each day I spent there was a great learning experience and I will cherish that all my life. Shantiniketan gave us the freedom to explore.”
Taking about Baij on a personal note, he shared, “Kinkar da was a man of few words but he was a great singer. He motivated me for theatre although I was not familiar with the language. He was a very hard-working man who has inspired me till now. Not many people know that he was as magnificent a painter as he was a sculptor. Everyone must visit Shantiniketan to see his works although it has changed a lot,” added Kumar.
Mithram Dharmani, whose family migrated from Sindh to Delhi during the Partition, was a student of Baij. While reminiscing his days in Shantiniketan, he said, “After completing my high school, I learnt the art of sculpture under Ramkinkar da and painting under Nandalal Bose. I learnt art, sculpture, painting and handicrafts under him. He helped me realise my potential and guided me so that I could polish my art. He was a great mentor, guide and philosopher.”