About Suhas Roy
Suhas Roy, born in Dhaka (now in Bangladesh), was a renowned Indian artist known for his unique exploration of humanity, beauty, and mystery in his art. Despite losing his father early, Roy pursued his passion for art with the support of his mother. He graduated from the Indian College of Arts and Draftsmanship in Kolkata in 1958 and later went to Paris on a French government scholarship to study graphic arts and mural painting. There, he trained under notable mentors like S.W. Hayter and was deeply influenced by the art and architecture of Southern Europe.
Roy’s art is a blend of reality and fantasy, often portraying subjects with sensuality, innocence, and a dreamlike quality. His most famous work is the Radha series, where he painted women with luminous beauty and a hint of melancholy. These paintings were inspired by his belief in the importance of beauty in art and the mythical embodiment of feminine grace. His early work included etchings, landscapes, and depictions of Jesus Christ, which were influenced by his visits to European churches. He also explored other mediums like printmaking and glass painting.
The themes in Roy’s work often reflected his surroundings and experiences. His Disaster series captured the political unrest in Bengal during the Naxalite movement. He was also influenced by Japanese minimalism, which added a refined simplicity to his landscapes. Using materials like charcoal, crayons, and brushes, Roy created art that was both detailed and emotionally rich.
Roy held several important academic roles throughout his career. He served as the principal of the Indian College of Arts and Draftsmanship and later as a professor at Kala Bhavana in Santiniketan, where he inspired many young artists. His work was exhibited worldwide, and he received numerous awards for his contributions to art.
Suhas Roy's legacy is marked by his ability to create deeply emotional and beautiful art that resonated with people. He continued to live and work in Santiniketan until his passing in 2016. Today, he is remembered as one of India's most iconic artists, with his Radha series remaining a symbol of his unique vision of beauty and emotion.