Page 5 - N S Bendre - Selected Works 1935 - 1991

FOREWARD

n the history of Modern Indian Art, N S Bendre is a
towering figure. With an extremely versatile artistic career,
he effortlessly moved across genres, including landscapes,
I figurative works, or abstraction, and created a harmonious
confluence of tradition and modernity on his canvases. His
artistic evolution was rooted in his bold use of colour and light,
and his relentless exploration through the years, which resulted in him
excelling in a range of diverse techniques. From his vibrant depictions of
rural India to his experiments with Cubism and abstraction, Bendre’s works
exemplify a deep sensitivity to the nuances of form and texture. His ability to
draw inspiration from both Indian and Western traditions, while remaining
rooted in his cultural milieu, positioned him as one of the most innovative
artists of his time.
This book offers readers an unparalleled opportunity to delve deeply
into Bendre’s contributions, his evolution as an artist, and his enduring legacy.
A particularly noteworthy aspect of this effort is its ability to transcend the
constraints of traditional art documentation. Drawing on archival materials,
personal anecdotes, and in-depth analysis, the book weaves a rich tapestry
of Bendre’s artistic life. By capturing Bendre’s journey—from his formative
years in Indore and his pioneering role in Baroda to his experiments with
modernism and his later years—this book fills a critical void. It not only
celebrates his achievements but also underscores the timeless relevance of
his work in the context of contemporary art.

Vickram Sethi
Chairman, The Arts Trust

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