Message from the desk of Director General
Embedded Files
Dr. Sanjeev Kishor Goutam
Director General
National Gallery of Modern Art
It is with great pleasure that I present the exhibition Nabha Sprash – Indian Women Printmakers at the National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi. This exhibition stands as a testament to the extraordinary contributions and pioneering spirit of women printmakers in India, whose creative endeavours have enriched the realm of printmaking with profound innovation and artistic depth. Printmaking, a medium that combines both technical precision and expressive freedom, has been profoundly shaped by these women artists. Their work not only reflects a dedication to the craft but also embodies their experimental and inspirational artistic journeys. This exhibition is a celebration of their diverse approaches, exploring the ways in which they have pushed the boundaries of printmaking.
Curated from the extensive NGMA repository alongside compelling entries from an open call, this exhibition showcases a wide array of techniques and styles. It highlights the evolution of printmaking in India through the eyes of its women practitioners, offering viewers an opportunity to engage with their unique perspectives and artistic visions.
As a printmaker myself, I am deeply moved by the transformative power of this medium. The exhibited works not only demonstrate technical mastery but also convey rich narratives and emotional content, reflecting the artists' personal and cultural experiences. Their contributions have not only shaped the history of printmaking in India but continue to inspire future generations of artists.
Our curatorial approach focuses on presenting a comprehensive view of the contributions of women printmakers across various regions of India. The exhibition encompasses a broad spectrum of works, reflecting different styles, techniques, and thematic explorations. The open call entries, selected by a distinguished jury of esteemed women printmakers, add a dynamic and diverse element to the exhibition, representing a wide array of geographical and artistic backgrounds.
Printmaking in India has a rich history, evolving from ancient techniques such as woodblock printing used for textiles and religious texts to the introduction of European technologies like copperplate engraving and lithography during the colonial period. The 19th century saw the arrival of the printing press, revolutionizing the field with early newspapers and lithographic prints. The 20th century witnessed modern printmaking practices pioneered by influential artists from India who experimented with etching, lithography, and screen printing.
Post-independence, printmaking emerged as a vital medium for contemporary artists, supported by institutions like the Baroda School of Art, Santiniketan, Visva-Bharati, Delhi College of Art and the National Institute of Design to name a few. Today, Indian printmaking is characterized by a vibrant interplay of traditional techniques and contemporary innovations. Modern artists integrate digital technologies with traditional methods, creating hybrid forms that reflect both local and global influences. Printmaking continues to address socio-political themes and adapt to new technologies, maintaining its relevance and dynamism.
The evolution of printmaking in India, from its ancient roots to contemporary practices, reflects a rich interplay of tradition and innovation. Historically, printmaking has been deeply intertwined with cultural and commercial practices, evolving through various phases of technological and artistic development. Today, Indian printmaking continues to thrive, characterized by a dynamic blend of traditional techniques and modern innovations. As the art form continues to adapt to new technologies and global influences, it remains a vital and vibrant component of India's artistic landscape.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, for their generous support, which has been instrumental in realizing our exhibitions. The success of this initiative is also owed to the exceptional artists whose original prints are featured, each contributing to a deeper understanding and appreciation of women's roles in printmaking. Special appreciation to the Education and Research team at the NGMA. Their dedicated efforts in curation, cataloguing, and overall organization have been invaluable in bringing this exhibition to life. Their commitment to presenting a well-rounded and informative display ensures that visitors leave with a profound respect for the art and craft of printmaking.
Nabha Sprash – Indian Women Printmakers is not just an exhibition but a celebration of the creativity, resilience, and artistic achievements of women printmakers across India. By presenting their works and offering educational resources, we aim to foster greater interest and appreciation for printmaking as a powerful and expressive medium. I am extremely proud to present this landmark exhibition at the National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi, and hope it serves as a source of inspiration and admiration for all who visit.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse