S. G. VASUDEV

Born in Mysore, Karnataka, in 1941, S.G. Vasudev is a renowned Indian artist recognized for his distinctive style and contributions to contemporary Indian art. He gained early acclaim while studying at the Government College of Art, Madras, where he was awarded a National Scholarship by the Government of India in 1964. Soon after, he received the National Award from the All-India Lalit Kala Academy in 1967, marking the beginning of a celebrated career that would span decades and encompass various artistic mediums, including painting, drawing, and copper reliefs.

Vasudev’s body of work is deeply rooted in themes that explore human experience, nature, and mythology. His celebrated series such as "Humanscapes" and "Earthscapes" resonate with audiences for their balance of intricate detail and luminous, mysterious palettes. His use of ocean blues, iridescent greens, and aquamarines evokes a dreamlike atmosphere in which his figures and landscapes exist in a state of equilibrium. His exploration of nature and human forms found expression in his widely acclaimed "Vriksha" and "Mithuna" series, which used vegetal and sexual imagery to convey a deeper understanding of the connection between life forces.

Beyond his work on canvas, Vasudev has collaborated with master weavers to create exquisite silk tapestries that reflect the same themes as his paintings. His artistic repertoire also includes copper engravings, batik paintings, and beaten metal works. His style, initially marked by heavy impasto, later evolved to integrate the linear impulses of South Indian art with an emphasis on lyricism and colour, often framed by simple geometric shapes.

A founding member of the Cholamandal Artists’ Village, Vasudev lived and worked there until 1988. His work has been showcased in numerous solo and group exhibitions both in India and internationally, and he has been honoured with numerous awards, including from the State Academies of Art in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. In addition to his artistic practice, Vasudev has contributed to the art community by serving on the Executive Board of the Lalit Kala Akademi and as an advisory committee member for the National Gallery of Modern Art in New Delhi. His commitment to the arts extends beyond visual expression, as he has also directed two award-winning Kannada films.

Currently, S.G. Vasudev lives and works in Bengaluru, continuing to create and inspire with his ever-evolving artistic vision.