(1905-1972)
Abani Sen was born in Bangladesh, 1905, was an Indian Modern artist. He received his art training from the Government School of Art, Kolkata, under the Percy Brown, who was a renowned British scholar, artist, art critic, historian and archaeologist. Sen taught art at Ukil School of Art, New Delhi. He was a founder member of the “Young Artist Union” in Kolkata in 1931.
Sen, one of the old masters of Indian art, created paintings fifty or more years ago that still show a fresh sense of modernism and contemporary style. As an artist, he was realistic, romantic, and had a unique approach. He was known for his strong realism and social commitment. His detailed depictions of animals, especially bulls and horses, were uncommon among artists of his time. His style also clearly reflects influences from European modernists in how he portrayed figures, forms, and subjects.
Sen was skilled in various mediums, including pencils, crayons, watercolours, and oils. He believed that India's folk tradition was a major source of inspiration for art and artists. Although he worked during the era when the Bengal School's romanticism was prominent, Sen chose not to draw from literature or mythology for his inspiration.
Sen used a variety of materials—pencil, charcoal, crayons, pen and ink, watercolours, pastels, and oils—to create compositions that were both dynamic and peaceful. These works perfectly capture his post-impressionist style. He believed in immersing himself in the subjects he painted, finding ongoing joy in fully engaging with his art.
Sen, one of the early Indian modernists, stayed true to his individuality throughout his life, constantly experimenting and passionately teaching. He absorbed and adapted the various forms of realism seen in artists like Daumier, Cézanne, and Van Gogh, along with techniques from modern art, making them his own. His skillful use of different media reflects a continuous blend of the local and the foreign, as well as the past and the present.
Sen was honoured many awards and recognitions in India and he awarded the reputed Governor General's Plaque in 1949.
Abani Sen passed away in 1972.
