Page 94 - Manifest September 2024
P. 94
Manjit
Bawa &
the cow
motif
Manjit Bawa was deeply influenced by his
spiritual leanings, which shaped his artistic
journey. Unlike many of his contemporaries
who embraced Western influences, Bawa
drew from Indian traditions, choosing vibrant
colours like pinks, reds, and violets to express
his vision. His works often reflected themes
of Indian mythology and spirituality, with the
sacred cow being a recurring motif.
The cow, a symbol of divinity and maternal
care in Hinduism was depicted in his
paintings with a sense of reverence and
serenity. Bawa’s use of bright, colours
against minimalist backgrounds highlighted
the spiritual significance of his subjects. His
art was not just a visual experience but a
reflection of his inner beliefs, where religion
and philosophy intertwined to create a
unique, enduring legacy in modern Indian art.
