Skip to main content

Tyeb Mehta

 Born in Kapadwarj, Gujarat – Tyeb Mehta is one of the most well-known Indian artists of his generation. He briefly worked as a film editor and then joined Sir J.J. School of Art in Mumbai to study art and graduated in year 1952. Tyeb Mehta became a part of Bombay Progressive Artists Group.

He was a strong film maker, His one and only film, Koodal was also a masterpiece of such montages, where he tries to project the same or similar images through a different medium. He won a National Award for the film.

Bulls, Rickshaw pullers, Kali were some of the main subjects of his artworks. His work is characterized by matte surface, diagonal lines breaking his canvasses and images of anguish – a result of pre occupation with formalist means of expression. Use of flat planes of colour provided the canvasses an intense means of expression in his oeuvre of work. A transformation occurred in his painting style when he visited America, it was during his stay in America that Abstract Expressionism was explored. However, his stay in Shantiniketan influenced his subjects. Goddess Kali and Durga were the most famous subject for him. He found contentment in painting her in all her forms.

One of the most definitive leaps that Tyeb Mehta made as an artist was the introduction of the diagonal in his paintings which was a result of an accident. In 1969, he thought he had hit dead end and in a flounce of frustration he flung a black streak across his canvas. Then as the drama of the diagonal hit him, he knew he had made a breakthrough for the slanting gash was biblical equivalent of the verb ‘Cleave’ that once unites and separates.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Frescos of India

Fresco painting in India has a rich history, especially in the context of ancient and medieval art. While it might not be as widely recognized as in some other regions, India has several notable fresco examples. Ajanta and Ellora Caves : These UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Maharashtra feature stunning frescoes dating back to the 2nd century BCE to the 6th century CE. The Ajanta Caves showcase elaborate paintings depicting the life of Buddha and various Jataka tales. The Ellora Caves also have some frescoes, albeit fewer in number compared to Ajanta, portraying Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain themes. Shekhawati Region : In Rajasthan, particularly in the Shekhawati region, fresco paintings adorn havelis (traditional ornate homes). These frescoes depict a variety of themes, including mythological stories, daily life scenes, and religious motifs. The town of Mandawa is known for its beautifully painted havelis showcasing this art form. Bundi Palace : The palace in Bundi, Rajasthan, is renowned ...

Investing in Art

Investing in Art is a great idea though like any other form of investment this too has its advantages and risks. While earlier art was collected more like a passion, without a doubt art as an investment has gained popularity over time. The art market has diversified and With art investment growing in popularity and accessibility, the number of art collectors in India and around the world has seen a steady rise. Here are some things to keep in mind before investing: Network with Experts   Get in touch with professional and experienced Art Consultants, Curators, Artists, or Gallery owners. Interacting with experts can increase your knowledge and will provide you a better understanding of the art market in order to make an informed decision. The best way to learn and interact with experts is to attend frequent exhibitions, art fairs, and auctions. Focus on One Category Focusing on one style or category of painting that interests you the most can turn out to be a significant aspec...

Indian Folk Art

Art is an expression of one’s traditional cultures. It encompasses a range of art forms from performing arts to visuals. Folk artists traditionally learn these skills and apprenticeships through their communities and cultural settings however many can be formally educated. Passed down from one generation to another, Indian folk art is still alive in many parts of the country. Each one is equally unique and breathtaking. Here are some of the best known folk art forms popular for their mediums, paints, drawings and subjects. Madhubani Madhubani art originated in Mithila region of Bihar is also known as Mithila. Madhubani paintings are one the most popular folk arts. Known for its vibrant yet earthy colours and tribal motifs madhubani paintings were primarily done be the women of the region. The paintings are done using natural pigments derived from plants and other natural sources on freshly plastered walls or mud walls. Figures from nature & mythology are adapted to suit their sty...