Thaindian News

New Delhi, Oct 31 (IANS) An exhibition of works of Poland’s famous 20th century artist Stefan Norblin, who won patronage from royalties during his stay in India, will open here Wednesday.

The exhibition, Stefan Norblin (1892-1952): A Master of Many Arts, is being organised jointly by the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA), the culture ministry and the Regional Museum in Stalowa Wala, Poland.

While in India (1941-46), he received patronage from royalties and was granted large commissions from several of India’s Maharajas, an official statement said Monday.

It was, however, in Jodhpur where Norblin got his most significant commission in India — to design the interiors and paint murals for the Umaid Bhawan Palace.

These have been restored, and some of them form part of the current exhibition.

Norblin in India 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.

Norblin’s Indian productions are of special significance on a global scale, where Europe meets Asia on a cultural platform giving testimony to cooperation beyond all barriers.

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.

The 60 curated works demonstrate the versatility of Norblin and his diverse output.

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 will be jointly inaugurated by Kumari Selja, the minister for culture, and Bogdan Zdrojewski, Poland’s minister for culture and national heritage.