Dazzling diversity of India's artistic heritage

A series of international events look to unveil dazzling diversity and vibrancy of the amazing artistic heritage, now rightfully occupying its deserved place on the global map. Several exhibitions already held this year in European and the Western countries testify the trend. For example, a significant exhibition ‘Other Masters of India: Contemporary Creations of the Adivasis’, at the musée du quai Branly in Paris unraveled the captivating creations of indigenous populations and folk communities for the very first time.

The idea was to let the art-loving public in France discover an important but still highly unrecognized facet of the contemporary Indian art scene. This was probably the most representative material, day-to-day, artistic and religious productions of India’s indigenous populations showcased in a multidisciplinary and thematic approach. The collection reflected the vibrancy of the artistic traditions of these different communities, and to their evolution and their exposure to the outside world.

‘The Indian Portrait’ explored the various wondrous ways in which artists of the different eras approached the depiction of the human form and the changing role of portraiture in Indian history. Another show, entitled ‘Contemporary Connections: The Singh Twins’ (Amrit and Rabindra) was held alongside the main display. It offered a contemporary response to ‘The Indian Portrait’ show and the London based National Portrait Gallery’s permanent Collection.

Bringing together 60 stunning works from international collections, the event celebrated the beauty, power and humanity of these works. It narrated the nostalgic tale of the Indian portrait over 300 years (1560-1860), comprising some of the earliest realistic painted images from the Mughal Court.

A curatorial essay termed them a ‘record of a complex and rich history, embracing influences from Europe and Iran as well as local traditions – both Hindu and Muslim - showing that the Indian portrait could proudly stand shoulder to shoulder with outstanding portraiture styles from across the globe.’