12 Masters

“12 Masters” emerges as the natural successor to “Visions,” a seminal exhibition marking my curatorial debut in 1986. While “Visions” spotlighted four artists, “12 Masters” casts its net wider, embracing the oeuvres of eight additional artists. This expansion aims to capture generational, gender, and medium diversity, enriching the exposition’s scope. As CIMA commemorates three decades, we revisit past themes while introducing new inquiries, reinterpreting earlier explorations through a contemporary lens. The overarching goal is to offer today’s audience a panoramic view of evolving visual history.

Organizing the exhibition into three phases, we trace thematic trajectories across the showcased artists’ works. Phase One navigates from fantastical realms to the subconscious, showcasing Ganesh Pyne’s introspective fantasies alongside Arpita Singh’s vibrant, feminine perspectives. Shreyasi Chatterjee’s post-modern landscapes disrupt temporal and spatial confines, infusing traditional forms with contemporary relevance, while Sushen Ghosh’s abstract compositions evoke meditative introspection.

Phase Two delves into existential crises and social realities, from Bikash Bhattacharjee’s exploration of neorealism to Jogen Chowdhury’s sociopolitical commentary. Meera Mukherjee’s empathetic depictions of marginalized communities contrast with Jaya Ganguly’s feminist expressions, highlighting societal injustices.

Phase Three culminates with the distinct idioms of Sarbari Roy Chowdhury, Somnath Hore, Lalu Prasad Shaw, and Sanat Kar, offering a journey through Bengal’s sculptural, graphic, and tempera traditions.

“12 Masters” serves as a tribute to CIMA’s enduring legacy, drawing from private collections to honor artists and aficionados alike. Grateful for the art community’s support, this catalogue celebrates shared journeys and artistic evolution over three decades.