M.F. Husain, a name synonymous with vibrant colors, bold strokes, and a touch of controversy, was more than just an artist. He was a whirlwind of creative energy that left an indelible mark on the Indian art scene and the global art world. Nicknamed the “Picasso of India” by Forbes, Husain’s life and work were as captivating as his paintings. So, let’s ditch the conventional biography and delve into ten lesser-known facts that paint a more personal portrait of the barefoot maestro.
Forget prestigious art schools! Husain’s artistic journey began in the bustling city of Mumbai, then Bombay. With dreams of becoming a filmmaker, the young Husain landed a job in 1935 painting cinema hoardings, those larger-than-life movie posters that graced the city walls. While this wasn’t exactly the silver screen, it sparked a love affair with visual storytelling that would define his artistic career.
2. The Allure of Calligraphy: Where Words Danced Before Colors
While painting billboards, a seemingly unrelated experience ignited a passion within Husain – calligraphy. Living with his uncle in Baroda as a child, he was introduced to the art of beautiful writing. The rhythmic flow and graceful curves of the Arabic script mesmerized him. This early exposure to calligraphy would later influence his use of line and form in his paintings, adding a unique layer of depth and symbolism.
3. A lifelong Love Affair with Hindi Poetry
Husain wasn’t just a visual artist; he was a man deeply moved by words. Throughout his life, he harbored a deep love for Hindi poetry. Renowned poets like Kabir, Kalidasa, and Mirza Ghalib resonated with him, and their verses often found expression in his paintings. He even illustrated several poetry collections, his brushstrokes echoing the emotions and imagery evoked by the words.
4. The Man Who Shunned Shoes: A Commitment to Comfort and Creativity
Husain’s unconventional streak extended beyond his art. He was a man who famously preferred to be barefoot. His reasons were twofold: comfort for long hours spent painting on the floor and a belief that it allowed him to connect better with the earth, the source of his inspiration. This simple act became a part of his artistic persona, a symbol of his groundedness and dedication to his craft.
5. A Prolific Painter: A Legacy in Numbers
Husain’s artistic output was nothing short of phenomenal. Estimates suggest he created over 45,000 paintings in his lifetime! That’s an average of more than a painting a day for over six decades. This sheer volume of work speaks volumes about his dedication, passion, and boundless creativity.
6. From Bollywood Dreams to Big Screen Debuts
While his initial foray into the film industry wasn’t as a director, as he had hoped, Husain’s connection to Bollywood remained strong. He was a huge admirer of the legendary actress Madhuri Dixit, even reportedly watching one of her movies a staggering 67 times! Interestingly, his artistic journey did eventually lead him to the silver screen. He made cameo appearances in films like “Meenaxi: A Tale of Three Cities” and “Mohabbat,” showcasing his playful personality.
7. A Brush with Controversy: When Art Sparks Outrage
Husain’s artistic explorations often landed him in hot water. His depictions of Hindu deities in a more symbolic and sometimes abstract form were met with outrage by some conservative sections of society. These controversies led to court cases and even threats to his safety, forcing him to live in exile for a period. Despite the challenges, Husain remained true to his artistic vision, highlighting the ongoing debate between artistic freedom and religious sensitivities.
8. Beyond Borders: A Global Citizen
Husain wasn’t just an Indian artist; he embraced the world as his canvas. He spent a significant part of his life living and working in London and Dubai. His artistic influences transcended geographical boundaries, incorporating elements of European masters like Picasso and fusing them with his own distinct Indian heritage. This global perspective is evident in the universality of his themes and the wide-ranging audience his work resonates with.
9. An Advocate for Peace: Art as a Bridge Between Cultures
Husain was a strong believer in the power of art to promote peace and understanding. He actively sought to bridge cultural divides through his work. One notable example is his series of paintings depicting Mother Teresa, a symbol of compassion and humanitarianism. Husain saw art as a universal language that could transcend differences and foster empathy.
10. A Legacy that Lives On: Inspiring Future Generations
M.F. Husain’s legacy extends far beyond the walls of museums and galleries. He is considered a pioneer of modern Indian art, inspiring generations of artists to come. His unwavering commitment to his artistic vision, even in the face of controversy, serves as a powerful message for aspiring artists to embrace their individuality and push creative boundaries. His work continues to be exhibited worldwide, captivating audiences with its vibrancy, energy, and timeless themes.
Where to Find M.F. Husain’s Work
Here are some museums and galleries around the world where you can find M.F. Husain’s work:
- National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi, India: This premier art institution in India houses a significant collection of Husain’s paintings, showcasing his artistic journey. https://sites.google.com/view/ngmaindia/ngma
- Jehangir Nicholson Art Gallery, Mumbai, India: One of the oldest and most prestigious art galleries in Mumbai, Jehangir Nicholson Art Gallery has hosted numerous exhibitions of Husain’s work throughout his career. https://jehangirartgallery.com/
- Salar Jung Museum, Hyderabad, India: This renowned museum in Hyderabad boasts a collection of Husain’s paintings, offering a glimpse into his diverse artistic repertoire. https://salarjungmuseum.in/Hours-and-admission.html
- Victoria and Albert Museum, London, UK: This esteemed museum in London houses a collection of Husain’s work, showcasing his impact on the global art scene. https://www.vam.ac.uk/
- National Gallery of Singapore, Singapore: This leading visual arts institution in Singapore has exhibited Husain’s work, highlighting his international recognition. https://www.nationalgallery.sg/
- Lalit Kala Akademi, New Delhi, India: This national academy for fine arts in India has exhibited Husain’s work and may hold some of his paintings in their collection. https://lalitkala.gov.in/Academy of Fine Arts and Literature, Delhi, India: This prestigious institution dedicated to Indian art and literature might have Husain’s works in their collection or might have hosted exhibitions showcasing his art. https://sahitya-akademi.gov.in/Khoja Mangeji Bagh National Museum, Mumbai, India: This museum houses a collection of Indian art and artifacts, and there’s a possibility they might have some of Husain’s works. https://csmvs.in/
