Indian art's American breakthrough by Riddhi Doshi

Source: DNA

Mumbai: The Bharat Ratna, a nine month- long exhibition of Indian art at the Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) in Boston, USA, will kick-start from November 14. The museum claims that this exhibition is the first modern Indian art show at MFA, and the first one at a major American museum in nearly 30 years. The 16 art works by eminent Indian artists like MF Husain, SH Raza, FN Souza, Tyeb Mehta, Ganesh Pyne and others are from the collection of US- based art collectors Payal and Rajiv Chaudhri.


DNA
Falling Figure with Bird (Tyeb Mehta)

In an exclusive interview to DNA Payal says, "There are several aspects that make this exhibition significant. This is the first time in 30 years that a major museum in America is showcasing such a comprehensive show. That is a milestone. This exhibition will promote awareness of Indian art and artists in America. And finally, this exhibition showcases what I believe is one of independent India's most precious achievements. India invented 20th century multiculturalism and this exhibition offers us a chance to showcase that to the world. Political and artistic multiculturalism are India's gifts to our deeply divided world. You will not be able to distinguish who painted which painting -- whether a Hindu, a Muslim, a Christian, Buddhist, Parsee, or Sikh. These artists are Indian."

Going back in time over the last 15 years of building this collection, Payal reveals, "These paintings were purchased at auctions, from dealers and from other private collectors. I forget the actual prices now but I do remember that even 15 years ago I was paying top prices and raising eyebrows. It hurts to pay top price at that moment, but very soon all you remember is the beautiful painting you own, not the price you paid for it!"