Celebrating the life and works of Gobardhan Ash, a pioneering figure in Indian modernist art

Prinseps Auction House are currently hosting the highly anticipated Gobardhan Ash Retrospective Exhibition. The exhibition, titled “Gobardhan Ash Retrospective: A Celebration of Artistic Brilliance,” is taking place from March 29th to April 21st, 2024, at the Kolkata Centre for Creativity in Kolkata.

Celebrating the life and works of Gobardhan Ash, a pioneering figure in Indian modernist art, the retrospective showcases over 100 original artworks spanning four decades, from 1929 to 1969.  The opening address was given by his son Nirban Ash who expressed that the exhibition offers a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in Ash’s diverse creative range, including sketches, landscapes, self-portraits, the iconic ‘Avatar Series,’ vibrant pastels, and the evocative Children Series.

In his early years, Ash was defiant of the then British way of teaching art. His quest for marking a path to modernism in India led him to have a pivotal role in founding the Young Artists’ Union in 1931 and Art Rebel Centre in 1933. Throughout his journey, Ash delved into self-portraits, showcasing his evolving artistic identity and mastery of techniques like cross-hatching. His avant-garde Avatar Series, exhibited in the Joint Show of the Calcutta Group and the Progressive Artists’ Group in 1950, left a lasting impression, inspiring experimentation and dialogue.

“We are thrilled to be hosting the Gobardhan Ash Retrospective Exhibition in collaboration with Prinseps Auction House” said Richa Agarwal, Chairperson of KCC. “This exhibition pays homage to Ash’s enduring legacy and contributions to the art world, inviting audiences to experience the richness of his artistic journey.”

In addition to the exhibition, a panel discussion on ‘Art Patronage and Collecting In Bengal’ featuring distinguished guests including renowned author and curator Ina Puri along with Richa Agarwal, Chairperson of KCC and Brijeshwari Gohil, VP of Prinseps Auction House and Gallery engaged the audience. The discussion delved into the historical context of art patronage in Bengal and its relevance in contemporary times.

Actor Riya Sen unveiled a coffee table book commemorating the exhibition, with over 100 paintings curated into the book. Riya acknowledged the painter and his contribution to the Bengal school of art. Having grown up in a family that has constantly offered patronage to artists, Riya explored the paintings on display.

“We invite art enthusiasts, collectors, scholars, and the public to join us for this immersive experience celebrating Gobardhan Ash’s life and works. The exhibition promises to be a journey of artistic discovery and appreciation and never-seen work of Ash” said Mr Indrajit Chatterjee, Curator at Prinseps.

Ash’s studio in Shibpur and his Begampur residence served as a beacon of artistic discourse, attracting luminaries like Zainul Abedin and Gopal Ghose, who sought inspiration from his brilliance. His mentorship and influence extended to Modernist figures like Ganesh Haloi and Ganesh Pyne, solidifying his status as a guiding force in the art world.Through this retrospective, we celebrate Gobardhan Ash’s enigmatic legacy in the annals of art history.