Tyeb Mehta (1925–2009) was a seminal figure in Indian modern art, whose works have left an indelible mark on the contemporary art landscape. Born in Kapadvanj, Gujarat, Mehta initially pursued filmmaking before fully embracing painting. He was a key member of the Bombay Progressive Artists' Group, which sought to break away from the academic art traditions of the time and create a distinctly Indian modernist art.
Mehta's work is characterized by its minimalist yet powerful aesthetic, with a strong emphasis on line and form. His use of bold, flat colors and fragmented figures often depict themes of suffering, violence, and the struggle for identity, reflecting the turbulence of postcolonial India. One of his most famous works, Mahishasura (1997), is emblematic of his style, portraying the mythic demon in a moment of existential agony, blending Indian mythology with modernist abstraction.
Over the decades, Mehta's works have achieved record-breaking auction prices, underscoring his influence and significance in the global art market. His legacy continues to inspire and challenge contemporary artists, cementing his place as a giant of 20th-century Indian art.