Introduction

K.S. Radhakrishnan’s retrospective exhibition, “On The Open Road,” at Bikaner House unfolds as a narrative of a sculptor’s journey spanning five decades. From his early encounters with the Santhal boy Musui to the recent monumental installation “The Crowd,” Radhakrishnan’s bronze figures evoke a seamless blend of strength and lightness.

Exploring the Human Form

Radhakrishnan’s affinity for the human form is evident in the diverse avatars of Musui, who transitions from a rickshaw puller to a writer, imp, and saint in various sculptures. The artist’s preference for bronze adds a unique dimension, providing supple spines and long limbs to his “airbound figures.” The exhibition highlights Radhakrishnan’s dedication to the medium and his commitment to traditional techniques of modelling and bronze casting.

Public Art and Social Commentary

A distinctive feature of Radhakrishnan’s oeuvre is his commitment to bringing art to the public sphere. Inspired by his teacher Ramkinkar Baij, who believed in filling open spaces with art, Radhakrishnan’s sculptures, such as Musui levitating from a granite base in Kozhikode and welcoming travelers in Goa, exemplify his desire to engage with a broader audience. The exhibition showcases his recent work, “The Crowd,” an installation capturing the spirit of Delhi’s migrant laborers, emphasising the artist’s humanist perspective.

Dialogues with the Curator

Curated by art historian R. Siva Kumar, the exhibition unfolds as a dialogue between the curator and the artist, reflecting on Radhakrishnan’s evolution and the high points of his artistic journey. The curation skilfully navigates through shifting focuses, offering viewers a comprehensive understanding of the sculptor’s trajectory.

Aesthetics and Inspiration

Radhakrishnan’s sculptures, whether depicting the flexibility of the human mind or capturing the essence of a fearless crowd, reveal an aesthetic that goes beyond the material. His works explore intellectual and emotional spaces, inviting viewers to contemplate the liminality inherent in the human experience.

Creative Freedom and Patronage

In addressing the contemporary art market, Radhakrishnan emphasises the importance of patrons who value creative freedom. Rejecting the notion of creating art dictated by external influences, he underscores the need for patrons who support the artist’s vision rather than imposing their own.

Continued Fascination with Humanity

As Radhakrishnan contemplates experimenting with different sizes in his upcoming works, one constant remains—his unwavering focus on people. Rejecting abstract sculptures, he asserts his commitment to engaging with real individuals, finding perpetual fascination in the complexities of the human experience.

Conclusion

“On The Open Road” at Bikaner House is not merely an exhibition; it is an immersive journey through the artistic evolution of K.S. Radhakrishnan. The retrospective offers a profound exploration of his dedication to the human form, his engagement with public spaces, and his unwavering commitment to creative expression. Visitors are treated to a visual narrative that transcends time, inviting them to witness the  legacy of a sculptor who continues to find inspiration in the essence of human existence.

The exhibition by Gallerie Nvya is on display from November 19 to December 14 at Bikaner House.

First Take 2021 Jury: Metaphor in motion with the sculptures of KS Radhakrishnan