Husain and Raza show together in London

There was a time when Husain and Raza could not even afford a cup of tea worth two paisa. They shared it from the same cup. Decades later, India's top progressive artists still shine brightly on the international art scene with name, fame and glory.

Depicting their grit and determination, Anubha Sawhney Joshi of The Times News writes: “Both had fire in their belly. They had a mission to demolish the then school of thought, which suppressed everything Indian. And they actually did! Both Husain and Raza, the last of India's living greats, are now settled in countries not their own. However, they continue to paint the world with the glorious colors of India."

M.F. Husain’s ‘Mother Teresa’ series and ‘The Five Rays of Raza’ have been unveiled for public viewing in London. The showcase has moved to Kings Road Gallery courtesy Tanya Baxter Contemporary.

‘The Five Rays of Raza’ shows his new works done in the last couple of years. It is in essence the culmination of seven decades of artistic endeavor. On the other hand, 18 hand-finished prints inspired by Mother Teresa series are a rare treat for art lovers. Mesmerized by this extraordinary persona, and fabulously framed in gothic arches, these iconic works get transformed into stained glass windows. These semi-abstracted works measure at least six feet in height. The series has not been shown in the UK before.

The managing director of Barclays Wealth International Private Bank, Michael Demirel, commented: “It’s a great pleasure to host such a notable exhibit of two highly respected individuals within the contemporary Indian art world. I’m certain this event will be of great interest to both art lovers and collectors alike.”

Christie’s will be sponsoring lecture series on both Indian artists as well as hosting a special program during the exhibitions. The curatorial team comprises Michel Imbert considered an authority on S.H Raza and Raisa Husain.