How did India’s most expensive artwork, by MF Husain, reach a Norway hospital?
The world of art is full of surprises, and the recent sale of MF Husain’s “Untitled (Gram Yatra)” at Christie’s auction is no exception. The painting, which has been valued at a staggering ₹118 crore, has created a buzz among art enthusiasts and collectors alike. But the most intriguing aspect of this story is the journey of the painting, from being bought by a Norwegian surgeon in 1954 to being donated to an Oslo hospital in 1964, and now being sold at an auction. In this blog post, we will delve into the fascinating story of how India’s most expensive artwork, by MF Husain, reached a Norway hospital.
The Early Years
Mahmud Ali Husain, popularly known as MF Husain, was a renowned Indian artist, painter, and filmmaker. Born in 1915, Husain was a pioneer of modern Indian art, known for his unique blend of traditional Indian art forms and Western techniques. He was also a key figure in the Indian artistic movement of the 1940s and 1950s, along with other notable artists like Francis Newton Souza and S.H. Raza.
In the early 1950s, Husain was still an emerging artist, struggling to make a name for himself in the Indian art world. It was during this period that he met LE Volodarsky, a Norwegian surgeon who was in India for medical training. Volodarsky was impressed by Husain’s work and decided to buy one of his paintings, “Untitled (Gram Yatra)” for his Oslo home.
The Painting’s Journey
The painting, “Untitled (Gram Yatra)”, is a vibrant and expressive work, showcasing Husain’s characteristic style of blending Indian mythology and symbolism with modernist techniques. The painting measures 120 cm x 90 cm and is a masterpiece of Indian modern art.
After buying the painting, Volodarsky took it back to Oslo, where he displayed it in his home. Over the years, the painting became a prized possession of the Volodarsky family, and it was exhibited in various exhibitions and events in Norway.
In 1964, Volodarsky decided to donate the painting to the Oslo University Hospital, where it was displayed in a private corridor. The hospital’s management was thrilled to receive such a valuable piece of art and proudly displayed it for the public to admire.
The Sale at Christie’s Auction
Fast forward to 2021, when the Oslo University Hospital decided to sell the painting at Christie’s auction to raise funds for the hospital’s art program. The auction was a huge success, with the painting selling for a staggering ₹118 crore, making it India’s most expensive artwork.
The sale of the painting has raised many questions about the journey of art from one country to another, and the significance of art in hospitals. The story of “Untitled (Gram Yatra)” is a testament to the power of art to transcend borders and cultures.
The Significance of the Painting
The sale of “Untitled (Gram Yatra)” has not only set a new record for Indian art but has also highlighted the importance of art in hospitals. The painting’s journey from Husain’s studio to the Oslo University Hospital is a fascinating example of how art can bring people together and create a sense of community.
Art has long been recognized as a powerful tool for healing and therapy, and hospitals around the world are increasingly incorporating art into their treatment programs. The Oslo University Hospital’s decision to display and eventually sell “Untitled (Gram Yatra)” is a testament to the hospital’s commitment to using art to improve patient care and well-being.
Conclusion
The story of “Untitled (Gram Yatra)” is a fascinating tale of art, culture, and human connection. From its creation in Husain’s studio to its sale at Christie’s auction, the painting has traveled a long and winding road, crossing borders and cultures along the way.
As India’s most expensive artwork, “Untitled (Gram Yatra)” is a testament to the power of art to inspire, heal, and connect us. Its journey to the Oslo University Hospital is a reminder of the importance of art in hospitals and the role it can play in improving patient care.
Source:
https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-culture/m-f-husain-painting-9903618/lite/
