Dhoomimal Art Centre is set to commemorate the centenary of one of Modern Indian Art’s most iconic figures, Francis Newton Souza, with an exclusive exhibition. Running from October 8th to 27th, 2024, this exhibition promises a rare and intimate glimpse into the life, philosophy, and enduring influence of Souza. A special preview will take place on October 7th, 2024, from 6 pm to 9 pm, at Dhoomimal Art Centre, New Delhi.
A co-founder of the Progressive Artists’ Group, Souza emerged as a pioneering force in post-independence Indian art. His audacious experimentation with form and content earned him recognition in India and across Europe, making him one of the first Indian artists to achieve international fame. Known for his raw, often provocative works, Souza tackled themes of religion, sexuality, and the human condition with unparalleled intensity.
The upcoming centenary exhibition will showcase works spanning from the 1950s to the 1980s, offering an unprecedented opportunity to explore Souza’s artistic evolution. Many of these pieces, drawn from the personal collection of Mahender and Sushma Jain, will be exhibited for the first time. The exhibition is a tribute not only to Souza’s artistic genius but also to his long-standing relationship with the Jain family and the Dhoomimal Art Centre.
In addition to the exhibition, a limited-edition book will be launched, capturing Souza’s powerful legacy. Shankar Tripathi’s essay, “Whose Monster? The Sensation(al) in Francis Newton Souza Today,” explores the relevance of Souza’s bold, subversive works in contemporary art. Tripathi writes, “In the centennial year of his birth—and this exhibition—Souza’s raw, expressive energy continues to reverberate through his subversive canvases, leaving little doubt of his enduring significance.”
Reflecting on the exhibition, Mohit Jain, Director of Dhoomimal Art Centre, shared his personal experiences with Souza. Jain recalled a memorable encounter in 2000, when Souza was hospitalized in Delhi: “Despite being in the hospital, Souza’s spirits were high. He joked that it was his first-ever hospital stay and credited his long life to ‘the three Ws’—Wealth, Wine, and Women. His humor, charm, and wit were as memorable as his art.”
The exhibition offers viewers a chance to witness Souza’s artistic journey, from his early expressive works to his later, more contemplative pieces. His fearless approach to confronting societal norms and his unapologetic exploration of controversial themes solidified his place as a revolutionary figure in post-colonial art. His works are celebrated in prestigious collections worldwide, and his contributions remain central to discussions about Modern Indian Art. Founded in 1936, Dhoomimal Art Centre holds a unique place in India’s art history. It has played a significant role in nurturing and promoting the works of Indian masters like M.F. Husain, S.H. Raza, and Jamini Roy. The gallery’s deep connection with F.N. Souza, as well as its legacy in modern and contemporary art, ensures that this centenary exhibition will be a milestone in the appreciation of Souza’s enduring influence on the world of art.