Chennai Mathematical Institute

Seminars




3.30 p.m.
Modern Art in Tamil Nadu (Part I)

Lakshmi Venkataraman
.
08-03-10


Abstract

The presentation on "Modern Art in Tamil Nadu" has been divided into two parts. In the first part there is a brief background sketch about Indian art followed by the establishment of the College of Fine Arts, Chennai. It then traces the works of some of the pioneers of the movement starting from Debi Prasad Roy Choudhury, the first Indian principal of the college. Many of the others were students in the institution and later became teachers there and had been the catalysts for many of the later acclaimed artists.

The second part will take up these latter artists' work of the late 60s and after and also touch on some of the currently up and coming artists.

Ms. Lakshmi Venkatraman - brief profile

After completing B.A. in Fine Arts, Lakshmi Venkataraman obtained diplomas in German and French languages. Five years administrative assistants work with the Germans at the IIT Madras led to technical translations of German into English as a freelancer. After a few years stint in advertising and textile printing, started career as a freelance journalist writing on art, music and cultural themes; nearly two decades as art and music critic for the Hindu, Chennai. Has translated Tamil fiction into English. Recipient of Art Critic award from the Lalit Kala Akademi, Hoso Bunca award from Japan for best script in the Asia-pacific region competition, best speaker and outstanding Melvin Jones Person award from Lions Clubs International. Currently running Gallery Sri Parvati and also a charitable trust to help deserving poor childrens education.