Dhiraj Choudhury, Untitled, 1994

Oil on Canvas
41 x 29 cm, 49.5 x 38 x 3 cm (framed)
Condition: Very good, slightly dusty.

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Dhiraj Choudhury (Indian, 1936-2018) was a painter renowned for his socially conscious art and expressive style. Born in Brahmanbaria District, British India (now in Bangladesh), he experienced the trauma of partition, which influenced his themes in his pieces. Choudhury studied at the Government College of Art & Craft in Kolkata and later taught at the College of Art, Delhi, from 1961 to 1966. He described himself as an “aggressive painter” who depicted “life full of misery”, often addressing issues like the dowry system, corruption, and social inequalities through his work.

Throughout his career, Choudhury held over eighty exhibitions, including sixteen international shows. In the 1970s, his works were exhibited in Geneva alongside those of Salvador Dali and Joan Miro. Choudhury passed away on June 1, 2018, in Kolkata at the age of 82, leaving behind a legacy of art that continues to inspire and provoke thought.

I found the riot of colours extremely attractive, and its marbled framing from Merlin Framers really added a complimentary touch.

(Photographed in August 2024)