How did India’s most expensive artwork, by MF Husain, reach a Norway hospital?
India’s art world was recently abuzz with the news that MF Husain’s “Untitled (Gram Yatra)” has become the country’s most expensive artwork, selling for a staggering ₹118 crore at a Christie’s auction. The painting, which is considered one of Husain’s most iconic works, has an intriguing history that spans decades and continents. How did this masterpiece, which was once the personal possession of a Norway-based surgeon, end up in a Norwegian hospital? Let’s delve into the fascinating story behind this artwork.
The painting’s journey began in 1954, when it was purchased by Dr. LE Volodarsky, a Norway-based surgeon, from Husain himself. At that time, Husain was still a relatively unknown artist, but Volodarsky was an art connoisseur who recognized the potential of the young painter. Volodarsky not only bought the painting but also befriended Husain, who would often stay with him in Oslo.
In the early 1960s, Volodarsky decided to donate the painting to Oslo University Hospital, where he worked. The hospital, which is one of the largest in Norway, has a long tradition of art appreciation and has a dedicated art collection. The painting was hung in a private corridor, where it remained for over 50 years, only occasionally being exhibited to the public.
So, what made Volodarsky decide to donate the painting to the hospital? According to sources close to the hospital, Volodarsky was a passionate art lover who believed that art had the power to heal and uplift. He wanted the painting to be a part of the hospital’s art collection, where it could bring joy and solace to patients, doctors, and staff. It’s a testament to Volodarsky’s generosity and foresight that the painting has remained a part of the hospital’s collection for so long.
Fast forward to 2019, when the hospital decided to put the painting up for sale at Christie’s auction house. The decision was made after the hospital underwent a major renovation, and the painting was no longer needed in its current location. The hospital’s administrators believed that the painting’s sale would be a great opportunity to raise funds for the hospital’s art collection and to support local artists.
The auction was a highly anticipated event, with art enthusiasts and collectors from around the world bidding on the painting. In the end, it was sold to an anonymous buyer for a staggering ₹118 crore, making it India’s most expensive artwork.
The sale of the painting has sparked a renewed interest in Husain’s work, as well as the story behind it. Art historians and enthusiasts are fascinated by the painting’s journey, from its creation by Husain to its eventual sale at auction. The painting’s sale has also raised questions about the value of art and its role in society.
In conclusion, the story of MF Husain’s “Untitled (Gram Yatra)” is a fascinating one that takes us on a journey across continents and decades. From its creation by Husain to its sale at auction, the painting has had a rich and varied history. Its eventual sale to an anonymous buyer has raised important questions about the value of art and its role in society. As we reflect on the painting’s journey, we are reminded of the power of art to bring people together and to transcend borders and cultures.
Source:
https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-culture/m-f-husain-painting-9903618/lite/
