The world of art has always been a melting pot of different cultures and influences. Over the years, artists from all around the world have been inspired by each other’s works, resulting in a rich tapestry of artistic expression. In particular, the relationship between Indian and European artists has been a subject of great interest among art historians and enthusiasts. Despite the geographical and cultural differences, there are striking similarities in the way that Indian and European artists approach their craft. From the use of colour and form to the exploration of spiritual and metaphysical themes, Indian modernism was highly influenced by the works of European masters
One of the most significant inspirations for Indian artists was the Impressionist movement, which emerged in France in the 1860s. The Impressionist artists’ use of light, colour, and brushwork techniques was admired by Indian artists and incorporated into their work. The Expressionist movement emerged to be another major influence on the modernist generation of Indian artists.
Beginning in Germany in the early 20th century, the Expressionist movement emphasised the subjective emotional experience of the artist. Indian artists, particularly those associated with the Progressive Artists’ Group, were inspired by Expressionism and incorporated its principles in their work. These artists, including F.N. Souza, M.F. Husain, and S.H. Raza, among others, fused Expressionist techniques with traditional Indian art forms, creating a unique style that was both modern and distinctly Indian.
Similarly, other movements like Cubism and Surrealism also had a profound impact on Indian artists.
Francis Newton Souza was heavily drawn to Pablo Picasso’s use of vivid colour, geometric forms, and distorted human figures. Picasso’s Cubist period, which emphasised the fragmentation and distortion of forms, had a significant impact on Souza’s style. This influence can be seen in Souza’s use of bold, angular lines and the flattened perspectives in his paintings.
Credit: The Picasso Museum, Barcelona, Spain
An exploration of the darker aspects of the human condition was also a common running theme in the oeuvre of both artists. Moreover, both Picasso and Souza used their art to express their political and social views, and their works often contained themes of violence, sexuality, and power.
In the works of one of India’s most important modernists V.S. Gaitonde, one can see inspiration from the artistic style of Paul Klee, a Swiss-German painter known for his use of colour, abstraction, and intricate symbolism. Both artists were also interested in exploring the spiritual and metaphysical aspects of art. While Klee used symbolic elements to express his beliefs about the nature of reality, Gaitonde’s works also contained elements of mysticism and spirituality. His paintings are often interpreted as meditative and contemplative in nature.
Credit: Sprengel Museum, Hanover, Germany
Credit: NGMA, New Delhi, India
Additionally, like Klee, Gaitonde’s works were marked by their use of colour and abstraction. Gaitonde’s paintings were often monochromatic, with subtle variations in tone and texture creating a sense of depth and complexity. Similarly, Klee’s use of colour was also highly nuanced, with delicate shadings and subtle transitions between hues.
It has been well documented that celebrated Indian painter S.H. Raza was deeply influenced by the works of Latvian-America abstract painter Mark Rothko. Raza was drawn to Rothko’s use of colour and his exploration of spirituality through art. Rothko’s paintings, characterised by their large, colour field compositions, had a profound impact on Raza’s artistic style.
Credit: AstaGuru Auction House, Mumbai
Like Rothko, Raza’s works were marked by their use of colour and their exploration of spiritual themes. Raza’s paintings often featured geometric forms and symbols, such as circles and dots, which he used to express his beliefs about the nature of existence. Similarly, Rothko’s works were also highly abstract, with large, floating fields of colour used to evoke a sense of emotion and spirituality.
Both artists were also interested in exploring the relationship between colour and emotion. Rothko believed that colour had the power to evoke deep emotions, and he used his art to explore this idea. Similarly, Raza also believed that colour could transcend language and communicate directly with the soul.
The influence of Western modernism on Indian artists cannot be overstated. The adoption of modernist techniques and styles allowed Indian artists to break free from the traditional forms and conventions that had dominated their art for centuries. The fusion of Indian and Western elements resulted in a unique blend that has come to define modern Indian art. This cross-cultural exchange continues to thrive, enriching both the Indian and Western art worlds
