Retrospective Exhibition Celebrating a Prolific Artist: Master Modernist Lalit Mohan Sen’s Legacy

An extraordinary retrospective exhibition at Emami Art gallery in India is currently shining a spotlight on the illustrious Master Modernist Lalit Mohan Sen’s Legacy. Titled “Lalit Mohan Sen: An Enduring Legacy,” this exhibition pays tribute to the remarkable and diverse works of this prolific artist, showcasing the modernist spirit that defined his creations.

Lalit Mohan Sen, born in West Bengal in 1898, was a renowned artist and teacher. His creative journey was nothing short of exceptional, with the exhibition displaying a wide array of materials and artworks from different phases of his relatively short but immensely productive career. From oil and tempera paintings to graphic prints, book cover illustrations, and even previously unseen drawings and photographs, Sen’s rich and expansive practice is on full display.

Although once well-known during his lifetime, the name of Lalit Mohan Sen has somewhat faded from today’s art historical discourse. In an effort to resurrect his legacy, the exhibition presents a vast variety of his works, shedding light on his talent as a versatile artist. Richa Agarwal, CEO of Emami Art, expressed that the exhibition is the result of intensive research, aiming to showcase Sen’s true prowess as an artist with a passion for experimentation and amalgamation of different genres and mediums.

Sen’s artistic achievements were not confined to India; his paintings, prints, posters, and photographs garnered praise both domestically and internationally. Notably, his tempera painting titled ‘Potter Girl’ received admiration from Queen Mary and found its place in the royal collection after being showcased at the Royal College of Art exhibition in 1930.

Artist : Late Lalit Mohan Sen pic.twitter.com/wTw7sdZPw6

— Sanjukta Choudhury (@SanjuktaChoudh5) October 2, 2021

Furthermore, Lalit Mohan Sen was the only Indian artist whose woodcuts were permanently exhibited at the Victoria & Albert Museum’s print room in the early-1920s. Upon returning to India from England, he took on the role of Superintendent of Drawing Teacher’s Training at the Government School of Arts and Crafts in Lucknow, where he later became the school’s principal.

Lalit Mohan Sen. A largely forgotten artist. Student of Rodenstein @ London Royal College of Art.

Principal, Lucknow Art College.

Thread⬇️ pic.twitter.com/uV8BJJLNio

— Partha M. w/ Severe Imposter Syndrome. (@partham) June 10, 2021

Debdutta Gupta, the exhibition consultant, emphasised the importance of exploring Sen’s relationship with Indian and indigenous art forms, beyond just his Western influence. The exhibition aims to celebrate his versatility and creativity, highlighting the mastery he demonstrated across various mediums, including photography, sculpture, and ceramics.

As the “Lalit Mohan Sen: An Enduring Legacy” exhibition continues to captivate art enthusiasts, it not only commemorates the life and works of this extraordinary artist but also offers visitors a deeper understanding of his contributions to the world of art. The exhibition is a testament to the enduring impact of Lalit Mohan Sen, bridging the past and present to inspire future generations of artists.

Art enthusiasts and history aficionados can experience this exceptional exhibition until September 30, savouring the brilliance of one of India’s finest modernist artists and appreciating the artistry that transcends time and generations.

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