Page 149 - Iconic Masters October2023

A Seminal

Work by Raza

Executed in the year 2004, the presented lot titled
‘Jagrat,’ stands as a shining example of his S. H. Raza’s
exploration of the ‘Bindu,’ a motif that would become
an iconic and unifying element in his body of work. S. H.
Raza’s interpretation of the Bindu, a term derived from
Sanskrit that means ‘dot,’ ‘point,’ or ‘seed,’ transcends
its mere visual representation. It delves into the
metaphysical and spiritual realms of existence, with the The artist with the presented lot.
Bindu emerging as a potent symbol representing the
source of creation, the core of energy, and life itself.

Within this composition, the artist delves into the essence S. H. Raza, born in 1922, spent his early years in towns
of nature through varied geometric configuration that adjacent to the forests of Madhya Pradesh, an
harmoniously relates to the larger whole. Through this experience that instilled in him a deep connection with
intricate structure, S.H. Raza creates a self-contained the surrounding natural world. This connection became
universe within the artwork, inviting viewers to decipher a lasting part of him, leaving a profound impact on his
its visual language. The piece also encapsulates the artistic journey. Throughout his remarkable career, S.H.
artist’s pioneering approach to geometric abstraction. Raza received numerous accolades, including several
The utilization of sacred geometry in this context prestigious awards. In 1981, he was honored with the
expands the interpretive boundaries of the artwork, Padma Shri and Fellowship of the Lalit Kala Akademi.
transcending specific religious or geographical In 2007, he was bestowed with the esteemed Padma
associations. Instead, these forms exude a universal Bhushan, further acknowledging his significant impact
essence, invoking the elemental, primal, and timeless on the artistic landscape. In 2013, he was honored with
aspects of existence. In ‘Jagrat,’ the Bindu takes center the distinguished Padma Vibhushan, a testament to his
stage, amplified by the color black, which, for the artist, exceptional achievements and profound influence in
symbolized the vastness of the universe. the field of art.