Page 9 - Anjolie Ela Menon - Inner Vision

INTRODUCTION

O ne of the most distinguished and prominent
Indian artists today, Anjolie Ela Menon was
born in Burnpur, Asansol, in a Bengali and
American household on the 17th of July 1940. She
took up art at an early age, even selling some of her
art by the age of 15. She then went on to study
briefly at the J.J. School of Fine Arts and then
studied English literature at Miranda House, Delhi
University. Artists like Amrita Sher-Gil, Modigliani
and M.F. Husain had a large impact on the artist at
this time, with the latter even helping organise
Menon’s first exhibition when she was 18. Husain
also designed the invitations for the show. This solo
exhibition showcased 53 of her works executed in
various styles, earning her acclaim from famed
critic Richard Bartholomew. The critic stated the
following while elaborating on her art, “I have no
doubt that before long this gifted young woman
will be joining the ranks of our very best painters.”
Besides being a mentor and friend to Menon, M.F.
Husain was also the reason behind the artist carry-
ing around paints and brushes with her in a small
bag so she could paint whenever inspiration struck,
in whatever space was available. He continued to
be an ardent supporter of her art through his life,
introducing her to art circles in Bombay in the 50’s
and 60’s and promoting her art.

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