How did India’s most expensive artwork, by MF Husain, reach a Norway hospital?
In a fascinating tale of art, philanthropy, and global connections, India’s most expensive artwork, “Untitled (Gram Yatra)” by the legendary artist MF Husain, has found a new home at the Oslo University Hospital in Norway. The painting, which fetched a staggering ₹118 crore at a Christie’s auction, has a rich history that spans decades and continents.
The story begins in 1954, when Oslo-based surgeon LE Volodarsky purchased the painting from Husain himself. Volodarsky, an art enthusiast, was so taken by the painting’s beauty and power that he decided to display it in his Oslo home. For over a decade, the painting hung on his walls, a testament to his appreciation for Indian art.
In 1964, Volodarsky made the decision to donate the painting to the Oslo University Hospital, where it was subsequently exhibited in a private corridor. The hospital, which is one of Norway’s largest and most prestigious medical institutions, has a strong focus on art and culture, recognizing its importance in promoting well-being and relaxation for its patients and staff.
So, how did India’s most expensive artwork, created by one of its most renowned artists, end up at a Norwegian hospital? The answer lies in the remarkable journey of LE Volodarsky, a surgeon who was not only a patron of the arts but also a humanitarian with a deep commitment to his community.
Born in 1922, Volodarsky was a pioneer in his field, known for his innovative surgical techniques and his tireless efforts to improve healthcare in Norway. His passion for art, however, was just as strong, and he spent much of his free time collecting and supporting artists from around the world.
Husain, who was just beginning to make a name for himself in the Indian art world in the 1950s, was one of the many artists who benefited from Volodarsky’s patronage. The two men developed a close friendship, with Volodarsky becoming a frequent visitor to Husain’s studio in Mumbai.
During this period, Husain was experimenting with a range of styles and techniques, from traditional Indian miniature painting to abstract expressionism. “Untitled (Gram Yatra)” is a masterpiece of this period, a vibrant and emotive work that captures the essence of rural India in the post-Independence era.
Volodarsky’s donation of the painting to the Oslo University Hospital was a significant moment in the hospital’s history, marking the beginning of a long and fruitful partnership between the institution and the art world. Over the years, the hospital has hosted numerous exhibitions and events, showcasing the work of local and international artists.
Today, “Untitled (Gram Yatra)” is not only India’s most expensive artwork but also a symbol of the enduring power of art to bring people together across cultures and borders. As the painting continues to inspire and delight audiences at the Oslo University Hospital, it is a testament to the vision and generosity of LE Volodarsky, a true patron of the arts.
Source:
https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-culture/m-f-husain-painting-9903618/lite/
