M.F Husain is one of the most prolific names in modern contemporary art scene. Born in 1915, he was primarily a self taught artist who started his career as a painter of cinema hoardings.

Husain got associated with modernism in the 1940s and became a part of the Progressive Art Group in the 1950s. He is often known as the’ Picasso of India’. His painting style culminates cubism with Indian classical motifs. His themes are wide and varied. His works include instances from Ramayana and Mahabharata, Mother Teresa and various other themes. He always returned to his roots in his paintings and depicted themes which were very indigenous in its nature. His phenomenal success can be attributed to his skill and his images. His works vary from a sarcastic tone to caustic or serious.  Husain is a man of many facets. From calligraphy to film making he has painted his canvas of experience in multicolored hues. In 1967, he made his first film ’Through the eyes of a painter’. He received accolades for the film and received a ‘Golden Bear’ for it. In 1971, Husain was a special invitee along with Pablo Picasso at the Sao Paulo Bienelle.

Education :  

J.J School of Art

Major Exhibitions:

He has participated in many international shows which include Contemporary Indian Art, Royal Academy of Arts, London, in 1982, Six Indian Painters, Tate Gallery, London, in 1985, Contemporary Indian Art, Grey Art Gallery, New York in 1986, Coups de Coeur and many more.

Awards :

He was awarded the ‘Padma Bhushan’ in 1973. The highest civilian honour ‘Padma Vibhushan was awarded to him in 1991.