PAST EXHIBITION: BENGAL AND MODERNITY

In the early 20th century, nationalist fervour swept the Indian subcontinent. In Bengal, several artists focused on revitalizing Indian cultural history and spirituality, deliberately turning away from academic expressions of realism practiced in the various British art schools in India. United by mutual artistic interests, these artists found new ways of expressing anti-colonial resistance. Some of them were inspired by the spirit of Asian universalism and looked for inspiration in the arts of East Asia expressed through the revival of indigenous techniques and materials. While yet others celebrated creative freedom drawing on various European art movements. In 1922, an exhibition in the city of Calcutta displayed works of several Indians alongside works by Bauhaus artists. The deep interest in emerging idioms of 'Modernity' shown by artists in Bengal had a significant impact on art in 20th century India. The Museum is grateful to the Lahiri Collection for lending most works on display in this show.

View the online exhibition here