SAMIKSHAVADI

Emerging from the art culture of the 1970's, Samikshavad is opposed to the tendency of Indian artists following the Western trends of Modern art. Its purpose is to help create a kind of art rooted in the experience of India.

The term Samikshavad acquires its origin from ‘Samiksha,’ a Sanskrit word which means criticism of life and society in which one lives.
Samikshavad also positions itself against imitations of the past or present styles of art.

Samikshavad, as a movement, is inspired by present social, political, cultural and economical conditions in India. Its aim is to make the art free from personalized obligations by the subtly exposing the corruption prevalent in the society and politics, with a language that is symbolic and satirical.

Professor Ram Chandra Shukla has published numerous articles and books relating the Samikshavad movement. His paintings and writings show a strong indigenous presence. Many of the paintings resemble paintings predating British influences. What is especially unique about these paintings is that although many of them resemble the methods, styles and forms of classical Indian art they feature subjects which push contemporary socio-political themes

The paintings above are all representative of the Samikshavad movement.

The painting on the left, Politicians of Today, is very explicit in its criticism of the Indian political system.
The title of the upper right painting, Flood Relief Center is also explicit in its message, but interestingly the painting remains very abstract and a connection can not only be made between the title and the paintings subject but much more can be disseminated especially when analyzing what is behind the forms and styles which the painter utilizes.
The third painting is a demonstration of the oppression by western influences on Indian art but also points to the entire subject and history of Western oppression in South Asia.