Kamala

Sunayani Devi’s paintings reveal a childlike, almost uncomplicated quality that is distinctive even as they reflect an abiding interest in Hindu mythology. Unschooled in art, despite being from an illustrious family—she was the sister of Abanindranath Tagore—Devi’s work though neglected so far is now gradually getting recognised. A comprehensive understanding of her contribution to Indian modern art, however, is long overdue. In her intuitive renderings of the human form, the artist created, as seen in Kamala, an aura of meditativeness and divinity while being influenced by Hindu religion and mythology.