A shrine for artists and art lovers, these art galleries will evoke the hidden artist in you with their bold and intricate collection of showcased works. By Yagnoseni Das
Art holds the power to draw in its viewer and transport them to a land unknown. And India is one such land that has been gifted with people right from ancient times, who can create this magic. And there may be numerous artworks by dedicated artists and visionaries, but a work that moves your heart and speaks to you need not do the same to another art-loving soul. So, here are some of the most prestigious art galleries in the country that not only showcases, preserves and encourages the country’s celebrated artistry but might also potentially house that one artwork that will reach your heart and move you beyond words.
Jehangir Art Gallery, Mumbai
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Nestled in Klaghoda In Southern Mumbai, Jehangir is one of the oldest and most prestigious art venues for seasoned artists and beginners to showcase their work. Established in 1952, the gallery also contributed to the evolution of the neighbourhood marking it as the art district of Mumbai. With numerous art galleries, boutiques, pavement art stalls and cafes around, a visit to this art gallery can also make a good mini cultural tour of the area.
Experimenter Gallery, Kolkata
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Co-founded by Prateek and Priyanka Raja in 209 in Kolkata, Experimenter is a space for artists to showcase their contemporary art. The gallery encourages dialogue, dissent and the bold expression of an artist through various artistic expressions. The experimenter has also been organising a wide range of initiatives to further the agenda of knowledge creation and dissemination through publishing, talks, workshops and much more.
The Government Museum and Art Gallery, Chandigarh
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Known for housing a rich collection of paintings, artefacts, sculptures and more from the country’s past, the Government Museum and Art Gallery in Chandigarh is one of the most prestigious museums in the country. With its many initiatives, the museum has always encouraged integrating art with the lives of people. The art gallery of the museum is divided into seven sections, representing the different sections of the history collection. Filled with unique works based on India’s rich timeline, from the prehistoric beings of India to its freedom movements, the gallery also effectively educates and transports its viewer to the different times in India.
National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi
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Established by the government of India in March 1954, NGMA houses a diverse range of art collections with 14,000 works. Some of the works are as old as a hundred and fifty years. Visitors can get a chance to appreciate the masterpieces by great names in art such as Abanindranath Tagore, Thomas Daniell, Gagendranath Tagore, Rabindranath Tagore, and many more.
Aakriti Art Gallery, Kolkata
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Another spot to witness the greatness of contemporary art, Aakriti gallery provides the up and coming artists with a safe space to showcase their unique and fearless pieces. With a strong digital presence, Aakriti also offers its pieces to art enthusiasts who like to take their favourite art piece back to their abode to adorn it with a touch of the artist’s creative expression.
Academy of Fine Arts, Kolkata
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Kolkata is no doubt the cultural hub of the country. And among its many art galleries, stands the Academy of Fine Arts, one of the country’s oldest and finest art societies. A hub where the state’s culture and artistry come to life, the academy along with its precious and valuable art gallery also organises theatre and dance programs.
National Gallery of Modern Art in Bangalore
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This pristine white structure stands on 49 Palace Road in Bangalore. This two-storeyed gallery was a former summer home for Raja of Mysore and now houses over 14,000 works in its restored building. One upon visiting one can witness the great artistry of Raja Ravi Verma, Jamini Roy, and more.
Sakshi Gallery, Mumbai
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Building a remarkable repertoire for 30 years, Sakshi Gallery is one of the premier galleries in the country. The gallery is known for working closely with significant names in the Indian and international terrain of artistry. Situated in the exciting part of Colaba, Mumbai, Sakshi gallery is a great spot for an art enthusiast to admire artists’ creative expressions and maybe also pick one or two to take as a precious souvenir.
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