By Our Correspondent
KOLKATA: It is with immense delight and pride that Dhoomimal Art Centre announces an exhibition spotlighting the esteemed ‘Calcutta Painters,’ a distinguished collective hailing from Kolkata. This event marks a significant milestone of sixty years, showcasing the group’s profound influence on the modern art landscape of India.
Founded in 1964, the ‘Calcutta Painters’ epitomize visionary artists dedicated to pushing the boundaries of artistic expression. Their commitment to fostering art and artists domestically, while making notable contributions to the global art community, remains steadfast. Presently, Mr. Jogen Chowdhury serves as the president, with Mr. Sudip Banerjee as the vice president of the group.
Emerging from the dynamic art scene of New Delhi, this esteemed collective has been instrumental in shaping the avant-garde art narrative in India. The artistic vision and techniques, pioneered by luminaries like Bijon Chowdhury, Rabin Mandal, Prakash Karmakar, and Nikhil Biswas, continue to resonate after six decades. In celebration of this remarkable journey, Dhoomimal Art Centre is thrilled to present an exhibition featuring the works of the group’s current members, paying homage to the enduring legacy established by its founding visionaries.
Among the featured artists is Mr. Jogen Chowdhury, widely acclaimed as the master of unbroken lines. His drawings in the exhibit depict female figures intriguingly devoid of sexuality or provocative postures. Vulnerability emanates through textured skin and lucid lines, showcasing the artist’s unique approach. The deliberate confinement within a smaller space reflects Chowdhury’s reverence for humanity and nature, crafting a thought-provoking artwork where vulnerability meets unconditional portrayal, creating a vivid and impactful narrative.
Subrata Ghosh’s series of exhibits delve into various manifestations of the sea, offering a glimpse into his unique perspective on life. It’s as if everything in our lives is adorned with a touch of romance. We often cling to history, mythology, and societal beliefs, yet when the tide of time washes everything away, we confront harsh realities. We oscillate between romanticism and reality, seeking equilibrium.
Mohit Jain, Director of Dhoomimal Art Centre, expresses his pride in showcasing this esteemed group, stating, “It brings me great joy to present the Calcutta Painters group, a dedicated force instrumental in shaping the modern art scene since 1964. I am thrilled to underscore the invaluable contribution such artistic collectives make, not only in nurturing the development of art and artists within our borders but also in making substantial contributions to the global art community. As the ‘Calcutta Painters’ mark their sixty-year milestone, they stand as a formidable presence in our nation’s cultural landscape, embodying a rich legacy in the realm of art.”
In essence, ‘Calcutta Painters’ have carved a legacy of unwavering dedication and artistic excellence, leaving an indelible mark on the canvas of India’s cultural heritage.
Participating Artists: Jogen Chowdhury (President), Sudip Banerjee (Vice President), Subrata Ghosh (Secretary), Anup Mandal, Gautam Bhowmik, Shibaprashad Kar Chowdhury, Susanta Chakrabarty, Rakesh Sadhak, Niren Sengupta.
