A study of the element of grotesque in Indian sculptures and installations art since 20th century to present era

Abstract

The main concern of this study is to explore the element of grotesque in Indian sculpture and installation art and its social and psychological relevance in the 20th century. The present research focuses on the element of grotesque in art. The rampant increase in violence is now a global phenomenon. This is affecting the peace and harmony of society by and large. Therefore, with passing time grotesque as a visual expression in art has got acceptance worldwide, and seeing its popularity, galleries have also started promoting the concept of grotesque in art as a narrative of expression. The boundaries of grotesque are enlarged and expanded by the modern artists. Not only myth and legend but also day to day life, human sufferings and their tragedies whether natural or man-made, took shape of grotesque interpretation. The various discoveries of the 21st century and the all-round progress of science and technology gave the artists the courage to think, create, choose and experiment in new mediums. This new thrust gave artists the courage to explore those mediums and avenues which were totally untapped before. The whole study of the topic would be analyzed on three parameters: Theory, History, and Practice. In the theory section the meaning and various connotation of Grotesque as discussed from the Indian and Western philosophical point of view will be discussed. While discussing about the historical background the major focus will be on tracing down the element of grotesque as seen in Indian and Western sculptures from the ancient to modern times. Comparative philosophies will be analyzed. In the Modern and contemporary art practices, social and psychological purpose of grotesque representations will be analyzed and understood as seen in the works of Indian contemporary sculptors. newline