A tribute to the legend

Legendary artist K G Subramanyan, one of the pioneers of Indian modern art, passed away recently in Vadodara at the age of 92. In a career of over six decades, the multifaceted artist, who lived and worked in Baroda, had been a painter, sculptor, muralist and print maker besides being an author of children's books. As a teacher at Baroda, he had tutored many a legendary artist across India, and that includes senior artist Laxma Goud who learnt mural painting from the legendary KG Subramanyan.

To remember his great works, share memories and offer tribute, Hyderabad-based artistes met at Gallery Space, Hyderabad on Thursday. "I never imagined that a day will come so soon that I should stand up and talk about his not being there. He may have passed away, but he will always be with us in the art forms. What he contributed to the arts, was phenomenal," said Laxma Goud.

He shared his memories of studying art with the master, "He always used a word - indigenous - when he talked to his students. His love and affection for people is something extraordinary. He always said that artistes must stay away from pride. The analysis and information he gave on art is something unbelievable. If I'm here today, talking to you, it is all because of the inspiration I had from him." "His contribution to Indian art is great.

Being a Gandhian and in 1924, he was even imprisoned in Kerala, and was later banned from joining government colleges during the British rule. However, he grew to be an extraordinary artist,” shared artist Anand Gadapa. Artist Laxman Aelay and Cartoonist Shankar were also present at the meeting.