‘Drishyakala Khand’, a biographical encyclopaedia on visual art is launched

This is the sixth volume of the 12 volumed Charitrakosh.

The 900 page book features profiles of more than 300 distinguished artists, sculptors, applied artists and cartoonists, who are illustrated with black and white reproductions of paintings and sculptures.

The book also features a special colour section titled ‘Kalasanchit’ which is an added attraction. Many rare works of art are reproduced here, some of which are probably printed for the first time in such a volume.

According to the joint editors of the book, Suhas Bahulkar and Deepak Ghare, the criteria for selection of the artists, was quite simple; those who are born in Maharashtra and worked here or outside Maharashtra; those who are from other states but have made their career in Maharashtra; and the ones from remote areas, who have remained unknown, despite their commendable work. All the distinguished artists have one thing in common. They have a minimum span of their career, ie 25 years.

Suhas Bahulkar, said, “It was really a difficult job of collecting the information, checking for its authenticity, and transforming it into a readable biographical note in a proper perspective of art history. The book took six years to complete."

Bahulkar added, “These profiles are not mere biographical notes, but they also construct an engaging narrative of the evolving trends in modern Indian art of the past 200 years. As this volume gives a new perception and vision, it is going to be a valuable reference book for art lovers, art students, and scholars.” 

The book launch event was attended by more than 200 personalities which included painters and writers who have contributed to the book.