Kolkata Centre for Creativity (KCC) in collaboration with Gallery Rasa inaugurated ‘Scenes from Santiniketan & Benodebehari’s Handscrolls’, a historic exhibition curated by Prof R Siva Kumar on 20th May at 5:00 PM. This one-month long (20 May to 20 June) exhibition has put on display for the very first time-Scenes from Santiniketan-the earliest and longest handscroll ever painted by Benodebehari Mukherjee, depicting the 1920s landscape of Santiniketan, one of the primary art centers of the country. Besides this recently discovered 44.61 feet-long original scroll, the exhibition also features reproductions of all other handscrolls and existing fragments, including one from the collection of the Victoria & Albert Museum, London.
The exhibition exploring Benodebehari’s handscrolls at KCC provides new insights into his engagement with landscape as a means of self-expression and a record of the evolution of his inner self.
Richa Agarwal, Chairperson of Kolkata Centre for Creativity, expressed her enthusiasm about the collaboration with Gallery Rasa and R Siva Kumar, a renowned art historian, and curator in India, to bring the exhibition to Kolkata. She said, “KCC is dedicated to promoting and preserving India’s rich artistic heritage. This unique exhibition showcases the early works of Benodebehari Mukherjee, one of India’s most celebrated modern artists. It offers a rare insight into Benodebehari’s creative process and his deep engagement with nature and landscape. We hope that this exhibition will be a valuable addition to the city’s vibrant art scene and that it will inspire a new generation of artists and art enthusiasts.”
Reena Dewan, Director, Kolkata Centre for Creativity said, “KCC is thrilled to curate the exceptional exhibition “Scenes from Santiniketan’ & Benodebehari’s Handscrolls’ that provides a rare glimpse into the artistic journey of Benodebehari Mukherjee, a pioneering figure in the Indian modern art movement. We are particularly delighted to showcase the newly discovered 42.3 feet handscroll, Scenes from Santiniketan, which is a rare piece of work among his creations. The exhibition would offer a unique opportunity to see his body of works on scrolls in one place. This exhibition is a must-see for art lovers and anyone interested in the cultural heritage of India.”