How did India’s most expensive artwork, by MF Husain, reach a Norway hospital?
India’s most expensive artwork, “Untitled (Gram Yatra)” by the celebrated artist MF Husain, has a fascinating story behind its sale. The painting, which fetched a staggering ₹118 crore at a Christie’s auction, has a unique connection to Oslo University Hospital in Norway. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the history of the artwork, its journey from MF Husain’s studio to the hospital’s corridors, and what makes this story so extraordinary.
The Artwork’s Early Life
In 1954, MF Husain, one of India’s most renowned contemporary artists, sold “Untitled (Gram Yatra)” to Norway-based surgeon LE Volodarsky. At that time, Volodarsky was a young doctor who had traveled to India to pursue his medical education. He was not only a medical professional but also an art enthusiast, and he developed a deep appreciation for Husain’s work. The two men formed a close bond, and Volodarsky became a patron of Husain’s art.
From Husain’s Studio to Volodarsky’s Home
After purchasing the painting, Volodarsky brought it back to his home in Oslo, where it hung proudly on his wall. Over the years, the painting became a prized possession, a symbol of his connection to India and his admiration for Husain’s art. Volodarsky’s love for the painting was not limited to its aesthetic value; he also saw it as a reflection of his cultural journey and his experiences in India.
A Gift to the Hospital
In 1964, Volodarsky decided to donate the painting to Oslo University Hospital, where he worked as a surgeon. The hospital was not just a place of work for Volodarsky; it was also a hub of medical education and research. By donating the painting to the hospital, Volodarsky aimed to create a cultural oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of medical practice.
The Painting’s Journey to the Hospital Corridors
After the donation, “Untitled (Gram Yatra)” was hung in a private corridor within the hospital. For decades, the painting remained there, a testament to Volodarsky’s generosity and his connection to Indian art. The painting was not just a work of art; it was also a symbol of the cultural exchange between India and Norway.
The Auction and a New Chapter
Fast forward to 2022, when Christie’s auction house announced that “Untitled (Gram Yatra)” would be part of its upcoming auction. The painting was expected to fetch a significant sum, but even the most optimistic estimates couldn’t prepare the art world for the staggering ₹118 crore that it ultimately sold for.
The news sent shockwaves through the art world, with many wondering how a painting that had been hanging in a hospital corridor for decades could fetch such a record-breaking price. The sale was a testament to Husain’s enduring popularity and the growing demand for Indian art on the global stage.
Conclusion
The story of “Untitled (Gram Yatra)” is a fascinating one, full of twists and turns that reveal the power of art to transcend borders and cultures. From MF Husain’s studio to the corridors of Oslo University Hospital, the painting’s journey is a testament to the enduring power of art to connect people across the globe. As we reflect on the sale of this painting, we are reminded of the importance of preserving and promoting Indian art, not just for its cultural significance but also for its economic potential.
Source:
https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-culture/m-f-husain-painting-9903618/lite/
