New Delhi, Nov 2 (IANS) An exhibition of works of Poland’s famous 20th century artist Stefan Norblin, who won patronage from royalties during his stay in India, opened here Wednesday.
The exhibition, Stefan Norblin (1892-1952): A Master of Many Arts, has been organised by the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA), the culture ministry and the Regional Museum in Stalowa Wala, Poland.
While in India (1941-46), Norblin received patronage from royalty and was granted large commissions from several India’s Maharajas.
It was in Jodhpur where he got his most significant commission in India — to design the interiors and paint murals for the Umaid Bhawan Palace.
Norblin developed a new style inspired by Hindu mythology and elements previously unknown to him, including characteristics from Indian art that permeated his pre-existing European Art Deco sensibilities.
The exhibition also brings together his works from Poland and the US. These include portraits of Poland’s pre-war elite, art deco posters, book covers, illustrations and designs for theatrical costumes.
Said NGMA Director Rajeev Lochan: ‘The great magnetism of this exhibition lies in the fact that India over time has witnessed the influx of foreign artists.
‘They have made India their home and drawn inspiration from a variety of sources, intertwining their innate sensibilities with elements of Indian art forming a multilayered view of the world they represented.’
The exhibition was jointly inaugurated by Kumari Selja, the minister for culture, and Bogdan Zdrojewski, Poland’s minister for culture and national heritage.
