K.G. Subramanyan’s Centennial Year: An Examination of His Artistic Vision

• K.G. Subramanyan, known as ‘Mani-da’, is a significant figure in the Indian art scene.
• His five collections of essays, published by Seagull Books, celebrate his omniscient presence in the field.
• The essays cover 19 topics, including the meaning of culture, the value of art, the difference between the average person and the professional, the concept of global art, the morality and truthfulness of the artist, the survival of rural and tribal art, and the balance between integration and accommodation.
• Subramanyan’s perceptive vision suggests that “culture” is more than a commodity or ritual, but a human being’s relationship with the self, fellow humans, and their relationship with the environment.
• He aims to achieve a balance between traditional past and modern innovations and infrastructure to create a culture-intent society.
• Subramanyan has received all the Padma awards, three of India’s four highest civilian accolades.
• He understands the psyche of policy makers, social activists, industrialists, politicians, sociologists, educators, and the audience.
• He acknowledges that serious art has never been a mainstream concern, falling short in its’recreational’ value.
• Subramanyan shares his perspective with mentors and historical figures, including Abanindranath Tagore, Coomaraswamy, Nandalal Bose, and M.K. Gandhi.
• His works, including his satire on democracy and understanding of the human condition, demonstrate his breadth as an artist and observer of the world in its socio-political context.
• He believes that Indian culture needs preservation amidst progress, and protecting art and artisans may be the way to do it.