Profile: Abanindranath Tagore

Abanindranath Tagore (7 August 1871 – 5 December 1951) was an Indian painter, writer, and educationist. He was the principal artist and creator of the "Indian Society of Oriental Art". He was also the first major exponent of Swadeshi values in Indian art. He founded the influential Bengal school of art, which led to the development of modern Indian painting. He was also a noted writer, particularly for children.

Tagore was born in Jorasanko, Calcutta, British India, to Gunendranath Tagore and Saudamini Devi. His grandfather was Girindranath Tagore, the second son of "Prince" Dwarkanath Tagore. He was a member of the distinguished Tagore family and a nephew of the poet Rabindranath Tagore. His grandfather and his elder brother, Gaganendranath Tagore, were also artists. Tagore learned art while studying at Sanskrit College, Kolkata in the 1880s. In 1890, Tagore attended the Calcutta School of Art where he learnt to use pastels from O. Ghilardi, and oil painting from C. Palmer, European painters who taught in that institution.

Tagore's early paintings were influenced by European art, but he soon began to develop his own style, which was inspired by Indian art and culture. He was particularly interested in the art of the Ajanta Caves, and he often used their style and motifs in his own work. Tagore's paintings are characterized by their use of soft colors, flowing lines, and decorative patterns. He often depicted scenes from Hindu mythology and folklore, as well as everyday life in India.

Tagore's work was a major influence on the development of modern Indian art. He is credited with reviving interest in Indian art and culture, and he helped to create a new national identity for India. Tagore's paintings are now considered to be some of the most important works of Indian art, and they are exhibited in museums all over the world.

In addition to his work as a painter, Tagore was also a noted writer and educationist. He wrote several books on art and culture, and he also founded several schools and educational institutions. Tagore was a strong advocate for education, and he believed that it was essential for the development of India.

Tagore was a complex and multifaceted figure. He was a talented artist, a gifted writer, and a dedicated educator. He was also a nationalist and a patriot, and he played a significant role in the development of modern India. Tagore's work continues to inspire and influence people all over the world.