Under the open road

Sculptor KS Radhakrishnan is showcasing his first ever retrospective exhibition of his works of over fiver decades at the Bikaner House. While the exhibition began on November 19 and it will be on display till December 14.

Born in 1956 in Kottayam, Kerala, KS Radhakrishnan studied art at Kala Bhavana, Santiniketan, under the guidance of legendary teachers and mentors such as Ramkinkar Baij, Sarbari Roy Choudhury and Somnath Hore. Since then, he has been a prolific presence in the world of sculpture, constantly exploring, thinking, and responding to his world and his times.

Radhakrishnan is celebrated for his exceptional use of bronze, which is his primary medium of sculpting. Though bronze is known for its solidity and heaviness, he has brought a remarkable lightness of form, movement and energy to his bronze figures.

His artworks: Early sculpture from the 70s and 80s, including abstract sculpture and portraiture.

The iconic figures of Musui and Maiya: Since 1998, Radhakrishnan has consistently worked with the smiling face of Musui, a young Santhal man he had met as a student in Santiniketan. Over the years, the artist has turned Musui into a saint, imp, rickshaw-puller… while Musui’s female counterpart Maiya becomes a writer, a goddess, a Santiniketan graduate… and much more.

Human Boxes series: These sculptures respond sympathetically to the unfolding saga of migrants who come to Delhi and somehow create a life within highly limited spaces and circumstances.

Special attraction, The Crowd: Radhakrishnan’s most recent work – The Crowd (2023) – a massive, unique installation of 50 bronze figures, each 6 foot tall. (Displayed outdoors).

Images of public sculpture: Firmly committed to public engagement with art, Radhakrishnan has installed his art in many public places across India (as well as France). Photographs of these open-air works will add a significant dimension to the show.

When: 11am – 7pm; November 19 – December 14
Where: Gallerie Nvy, Centre for Contemporary Art, Bikaner house, New Delhi