Author: Rudrangshu Mukherjee
Publisher: Lalit Kala Akedmi/CIMA
Year: 2003
Language: English
Pages: 152
ISBN/UPC (if available): 8187977027
Description
Founded on the detailed academic study of the period by Dr Rudrangshu Mukherjee, Dr Bhaswati Chakravorty, Dr Sovon Som, and Ms. Rita Datta, this book holds the glass closer to the historical, socio-cultural, and artistic conditions of the period.
During this period, the artists, having discarded the robe of colonialism along with all its appendages, wove instead a new cloth, coloured by local motifs and patterns, and completely consistent with indigenous history and practices. At the same time they were educated in democratic values and empowered by the euphoric sense of freedom, which was the dominant spirit of the country.
Consequently, the created a canvas that was bold, confident, comfortable with western aesthetic pedagogy, and highly energetic and individualistic. The emphasis was on innovation and introspection, and the outcome of this exploration demonstrated an unprecedented kind of vigour and clarity. The artists explored universal ideas through indigenous sensibility and ideals. It is no wonder then that their work very quickly touched a deep and resonating chord with the intelligentsia of the country. Their art became more meaningful and widespread in the sub-continental context. This book charts the trajectory of that complex and compelling story.
Contents
Foreword
Chronicle of a Decline Foretold: Bengal, 1955-75
Rudrangshu Mukherjee
A Bridge Too Far: Culture and the Left in West Bengal
Bhaswati Chakravorty
An Idiom of their Own
Sovon Som
From Indian to Individual
Rita Datta
Chronology
Bio-datas
Contributors
List of Illustrations
Acknowledgements