How did India’s most expensive artwork, by MF Husain, reach a Norway hospital?
In a fascinating tale of art, philanthropy, and serendipity, India’s most expensive artwork, “Untitled (Gram Yatra)” by the legendary artist MF Husain, has made its way to an unexpected location – Oslo University Hospital in Norway. The painting, which fetched a staggering ₹118 crore at a Christie’s auction, has an incredible history that spans over six decades. This blog post delves into the story of how this masterpiece, painted in 1954, ended up in the hospital’s corridors.
The painting’s journey began in the early 1950s when MF Husain, a young and aspiring artist, was experimenting with his unique style that blended traditional Indian art with modernist influences. It was during this period that he sold the painting to Norwegian surgeon LE Volodarsky, who was a friend and patron of the arts. Volodarsky was so taken by Husain’s work that he not only bought the painting but also commissioned several more pieces from the artist.
Fast forward to the 1960s, when Volodarsky decided to donate the painting to Oslo University Hospital. At the time, the hospital’s administration was looking to adorn its corridors with art pieces that would bring solace to patients and provide a sense of calm. Volodarsky, being a surgeon himself, understood the importance of art in healing and decided to gift the painting to the hospital. The hospital, in turn, displayed the artwork in a private corridor, where it remained for over four decades.
The painting’s value, however, remained relatively unknown until recently. In 2015, the hospital decided to put the painting up for auction to raise funds for a new hospital wing. Christie’s auction house was approached, and the painting was sold to an anonymous buyer for a staggering ₹118 crore, making it India’s most expensive artwork.
So, what happened to the painting after the auction? According to reports, the buyer, who wished to remain anonymous, sold the painting to a private collector. It is not clear whether the painting will be displayed publicly or remain in private hands.
The story of “Untitled (Gram Yatra)” serves as a testament to the power of art to transcend borders and cultures. From its creation in India to its exhibition in a Norwegian hospital, the painting has traveled an incredible journey. It is a reminder that art has the ability to bring people together, regardless of their background or nationality.
The sale of the painting has also sparked a renewed interest in MF Husain’s work, with many art connoisseurs and collectors seeking to own pieces by the legendary artist. Husain’s unique style, which blended traditional Indian art with modernist influences, has inspired generations of artists, and his work continues to be in high demand.
In conclusion, the story of “Untitled (Gram Yatra)” is a fascinating tale of art, philanthropy, and serendipity. From its creation in India to its exhibition in a Norwegian hospital, the painting has traveled an incredible journey. It is a testament to the power of art to transcend borders and cultures, and a reminder of the importance of art in healing.
Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-culture/m-f-husain-painting-9903618/lite/
