Sushil Sarkar is a Bengali painter renowned for his contribution to both art and art education in India. Born in 1902, Sarkar belongs to a community of early modernists who were known for merging diverse artistic practices. Though the subjects of his works were primarily traditional Indian figures, his body of work demonstrates an eclectic set of stylistic influences ranging from the Bengal School to the then burgeoning Modernist...
Sushil Sarkar is a Bengali painter renowned for his contribution to both art and art education in India. Born in 1902, Sarkar belongs to a community of early modernists who were known for merging diverse artistic practices. Though the subjects of his works were primarily traditional Indian figures, his body of work demonstrates an eclectic set of stylistic influences ranging from the Bengal School to the then burgeoning Modernist movement.
Sarkar is most noted for his efforts to improve the quality of education and training provided at the Government School of Art and Craft, Chandigarh (located in Shimla until 1960). During his tenure as Principal of the institution from 1959 to 1975, Sarkar encouraged students to explore new ideas, practices and techniques. By inviting eminent artists and art critics for lectures, screening documentaries and films exploring art history, and promoting the institution through journals such as The Illustrated Weekly of India and Advance, he actively sought to develop and expand the art school. At a time when the institution suffered from a lack of funding and support, his efforts proved to be pivotal to its survival.