Shankar Palsikar: A Notable Figure in Indian Modern Art

Shankar Balwant Palsikar was a key figure in Indian modern art—painter, teacher, and thinker. His work is known for its simplicity, depth, and strong connection to Indian culture. For Thane, he is not just a renowned artist but one of their own. In his later years, he lived and worked in the city, enriching its cultural life. Even today, Palsikar remains a source of pride, reminding Thane of its legacy of influential artists and thinkers.

Palshikar was born on 17 May 1916 in Sakoli, a small village in Bhandara district of Maharashtra. He came from a large family and was the youngest among ten siblings. His father passed away when he was just eight years old. Despite these early challenges, he continued his education and showed strong interest in art from a young age.

In 1938, he moved to Mumbai. There, he started working with well-known artists like N. S. Bendre and Dinanath Dalal. It was during this time that he became more serious about pursuing art as a career. Interestingly, he began formal art education at the age of 26, which is considered late. However, his dedication helped him progress quickly.

He joined Sir J. J. School of Art in Mumbai. Over the years, he held many positions there. He started as a student, then became a fellow, assistant professor, professor, and finally the Dean. He retired in 1975. His long association with the institution made him an influential figure in art education.

Palsikar’s paintings are calm and thoughtful. Though abstract, they carry meaning beyond technique. He used muted tones—brown, grey, orange, deep blue—to create a quiet, reflective mood.

His work often evokes silence and inner peace, blending Indian tradition with modern ideas. Influenced by Vedanta, the Upanishads, Buddhism, and Yoga, these philosophies are clearly reflected in his art.

Apart from painting, he was also active as a speaker and writer. He delivered lectures on Indian aesthetics, modern art, and spirituality. He believed that art is a way of understanding life and oneself.

Some of his well-known works include Green Lotus, Crusade for Freedom, Sinners Divine, One Without Second, and Maya. He also painted portraits of important personalities like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Lal Bahadur Shastri, and Indira Gandhi. His portraits captured not only physical likeness but also the character of the individuals.

He received many honours during his life. In 1950, he won gold medal from the Bombay Art Society and the Fine Art Society of Calcutta. In 1965, he represented India at an art conference in England and later travelled across Europe. In 1973, he was invited by the Sri Lankan government as an art education expert. He also received a gold medal from an Italian academy for his contribution to art.

One of his highest recognitions was being named among the nine leading artists of India by the Lalit Kala Akademi.

Shankar Palsikar passed away in 1984. After his death, exhibitions of his work were held in Mumbai, including at the Jehangir Art Gallery. A major exhibition was also held in 2017 at the National Gallery of Modern Art to mark his birth centenary.

Today, he is remembered as a key figure in Indian modern art. His work continues to inspire artists and students.