Manjit Bawa, born in 1941 in Dhuri, Punjab, was a prominent figure in Indian contemporary art, known for his unique approach to figurative painting. Unlike many of his contemporaries who were drawn to abstraction, Bawa carved out a niche for himself with his focus on the human figure and the use of a bright, saturated color palette. His early training at the College of Art in New Delhi, followed by a period of study in the UK, exposed him to both Indian miniature painting and Western modernism, influences that would come to define his style.
Bawa’s work is marked by its simplicity and elegance, often depicting figures in serene, dreamlike settings. He drew inspiration from Indian mythology, Sufi poetry, and the natural world, frequently featuring deities, animals, and allegorical themes in his compositions. The use of flat, vibrant colors, particularly reds, greens, and blues, became a signature element of his work, creating a sense of timelessness and tranquility.
Throughout his career, Bawa exhibited widely, both in India and internationally, earning recognition as one of the most original and innovative artists of his time. His legacy continues to resonate in the art world, inspiring new generations of artists.