Question

The South Indian Artist who used European realism and art techniques with Indian subjects:

• A. M.F. Hussain
• B. Raja Ravi Varma
• C. Bhupen Khakhar
• D. Tyeb Mehta

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Raja Ravi Varma

• Raja Ravi Varma (1848-1906) was a renowned Indian painter from the princely state of Travancore (now part of Kerala).

• He's significant in Indian art history for his unique fusion of European academic painting techniques with Indian themes and subjects.

• Some key facts about Raja Ravi Varma:

1. He was one of the first Indian artists to master oil painting techniques and European realism

2. He primarily painted scenes from Hindu mythology and epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana

3. He created realistic portrayals of Indian goddesses and women that became iconic representations in Indian visual culture

4. He established the first lithographic press in India (The Ravi Varma Press) which made his art accessible to the common people through affordable prints

5. His paintings blended Western art techniques with distinctly Indian subjects, creating a unique aesthetic that influenced generations of Indian artists