v. Modern and Contemporary Art

The evolution of modern Indian art is often traced back to around 1857, a period marked by significant social and cultural transformation. This era is well represented in the National Gallery of Modern Art in New Delhi. While the Impressionist movement in the West is frequently cited as the dawn of modernity in global art, in India, the journey typically begins with the emergence of the Bengal School of Painting.

Modern and contemporary art in India brought with it a sense of liberation—freedom in creativity, a shift from localized traditions to a more global perspective, and an openness to eclectic influences. Artistic technique became more prominent, often celebrated for its sophistication and innovation. Most notably, this period witnessed the rise of the individual artist as a unique voice, distinct from collective schools or historical styles.

1. Evolution of modern painting in India

• By the late 19th century, Indian painting, especially as a continuation of the miniature tradition, was experiencing a decline. The artistic landscape was sustained mainly by modest forms such as ‘Bazar’ and ‘Company’ school paintings, along with select regional folk arts that managed to preserve their relevance during this transitional phase.
• Then emerged the recently introduced naturalism in the West, which Raja Ravi Verma was the leading proponent of.
• Abanindranath Tagore made an effort to stop this cultural muddle, and under his inspired leadership, a new school of painting that was initially distinctly nostalgic and romantic came into being. It maintained its position as the Bengal School of Painting, also known as the Renaissance School or the Revivalist School, for more than three decades.
• The end of the Second World War unleashed unprecedented and entirely new political and cultural forces and situations that the artist had to deal with.
• Significantly, the time frame was contiguous with the country’s independence. Freedom brought with it previously unheard-of opportunities. A broad modernization and confrontational course were set for the artist, especially with the West, which had far-reaching repercussions. The artists accepted this change brought about by the circumstances and the desire for modernization (to adopt the ideas such as impressionism, expressionism, or post-expressionism in the realm of arts)
• The fact that the technique and method have taken on new significance is one of the most distinguishing features of contemporary Indian painting. The content of a work of art became secondary to the form, which was increasingly valued as a distinct entity.
• The lack of a genuine connection between the artist and the public has become a new issue with the rise of individualism as the dominant artistic ideology.

2. More on Bengal school of art

The Bengal School of Art commonly referred to as the Bengal School was an art movement and a style of Indian painting that originated in Bengal, and flourished throughout the Indian subcontinent, during the British Raj in the early 20th century.

Impressive and Indian Subject Matter: Bengal School is both Indian and very impressive. Themes from literature, religion, and history are all used.