Born in 1924, in Tamil Nadu, India, K.G. Subramanyan grew up in a culturally vibrant environment that was deeply influenced by Indian Art and Mythology. He initially pursued an undergraduate degree in Economics from the Presidency College, Chennai. However, his true calling for art led him to join Santiniketan where he studied under the tutelage of Nandalal Bose, Binode Behari Mukherjee and Ramkinker Baji.
His artistic style draws from Indian Folk Art, Classical Sculptures, along with the narratives depicted in Indian Miniature paintings creating a unique visual vocabulary. His work across mediums such as paintings, drawings, murals and terracotta relief sculptures sees modern themes, depicting everyday life, social commentaries and mythological narratives. This fusion of old and new showcased his ability to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity.
Through his works he explored ideas of identity, gender, mythology, human condition, which reflected his deep philosophical insights. His practice examines the complexities of the modern world, through visual language and metaphors that reflect the heritage, legacy and roots of living traditions of India. Furthermore, his work in the domain of textiles, crafts, and living traditions of India paved the way for generations of Artists and designers in India.
Over an exhaustive career spanning over seven decades, his works have been exhibited at various national and international venues and have received widespread acclaim. His contribution to the field of art, and design as a practitioner, writer, and pedagogue have earnt him widespread acclaim. He has been honoured with several awards and accolades, including a Padma Vibhushan for his extensive work.
Visva-Bharati University
National Award, Lalit Kala Academy, 1965
Gold Medal, The first international Triennale, New Delhi, 1968
Padma Shri, Government of India, 1975
D Litt., Rabindra Bharati University, Calcutta, 1992
Padma Bhushan, Government of India, 2006
Padma Vibhushan, Government of India, 2012
