Museum dedicated to artist A Ramachandran to open in Kerala on October 5

The museum will not only realise his long-cherished dream of a space where his art could be in dialogue with the public, but also marks a homecoming of sorts for the Attingal-born artist, whose early influences included Kerala’s temple murals and the works of Raja Ravi Varma at Sri Chitralayam in Thiruvananthapuram.

“One of the most talented and dedicated artists of our times, his continued commitment to uphold secularism and Gandhian ideals was truly inspiring. With a keen eye for detail, his intricate depictions reflect not only his artistic precision but also his deep awareness of his surroundings, which he monumentalised in his large canvases and sculptures,” said Murali Cheeroth, Chairperson, Kerala Lalithakala Akademi.

Ramachandran himself had also selected artworks for the museum, proposed during his lifetime. On display, among others, will be 12 oil paintings chosen by him, including three monumental lotus pond canvases from the later period after the mid-80s. This was when his oeuvre saw a dramatic shift from more politically and socially charged works to a lyrical imagery that was influenced by his numerous visits to Rajasthan. There, he had acquainted himself with the life led by the Bhil community and discovered their lotus ponds that became an enduring motif.

Curated by art historian R Siva Kumar, the museum will also showcase watercolours and pen-and-ink drawings from the celebrated ‘Insignificant Incarnation’ series.

Ramachandran was also an inspiring art educator who taught for several years at Jamia Millia Islamia University. The museum will highlight his wide-ranging pursuits, including several of his illustrations and original artworks featured in children’s books, rare experiments with ceramics, and seven stamp designs, including the iconic Dandi March commemorative stamp. His deep admiration for Mahatma Gandhi will be reflected in ink drawings of the national leader as well as his sculpture in a section that will also feature a monumental installation titled ‘In Trance’ that comprises nine life-size figures.

Rajasthani miniature paintings and oil paintings from his personal collection will also be featured in the museum. Offering a glimpse into the collaborative artistic vision he shared with his wife and fellow artist Chameli Ramachandran will be a section featuring ten watercolours by her.

Visitors can also step into Ramachandran’s studio that’s complete with his personal artifacts and tools. A standing easel he used for smaller works and a Kerala wood carving that adorned his Delhi studio have also been transported to the museum studio.

Ramachandran’s family said in a statement: “Although Ramachandran did not live to see the museum’s inauguration, the fulfillment of his long-cherished dream stands as a tribute to his life’s work. The family hopes the museum will inspire generations of young artists, just as Sri Chitralayam once inspired him. We also hope it will encourage the growth of museum culture in India…”

Cheeroth said the museum will also plan active programming, including workshops and walkthroughs. “We will soon have an international exchange programme with Sri Lanka and the US. An international camp is also being planned, apart from soft skill sessions and educational workshops with children.”

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