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The Evolution of Indian Sculpture Art


Since the ages, art has left a considerable impact on human civilizations. In the simplest words, art can be defined as the expression of human imagination in the visual form like sculpture or painting. Well, for each artist, the definition is unique.

 In the realm of art, the Indian subcontinent has an immense contribution. In fact, numerous forms of art have origins in India. Talking specifically about sculpture art, it is one of the vital art forms that has dramatically evolved over time.

 In the subsequent sections, we have discussed this evolution by talking about essential stages.

 Indus Valley civilization
The inception of sculpture art in India dates back to Indus Valley civilization. The archaeologists have excavated vast quantities of steatite seals and terracotta sculptures at Harappa and Mohenjo Daro sites. Some prominent figures include animals, female dancers, foliage, and deities. That era’s artwork The Dancing Girl of Mohenjo-Daro considered the most remarkable and is currently placed at National Museum, Delhi.

 Ajanta Caves
The discussion about Indian sculpture art is incomplete without the discussion of Ajanta caves. These Aurangabad, Maharashtra-based caves are known for multiple carvings that illustrate the life of Buddha. There are 24 rock-cut caves, which were used as monasteries, whereas the remaining five were used as prayer halls or temples. Apart from Buddhist iconography, one can also observe detailed images of warriors, animals, and deities.

 Elephanta Caves
Situated 10 km east of Mumbai, Elephanta Caves are rock-cut basalt caves divided into two groups. The first group is dedicated to the Lord Shiva, whereas the second group is dedicated to Buddha. These caves also feature the sculptures of Lord Ganesha, Parvati, Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva, and Ravana. The caves received the designation of the UNESCO world heritage site in 1970.

 Ellora Caves
A collection of around 34 structures, the Ellora Caves are spread over an area of more than two kilometers. In these caves, you will find sculptures that represent three different faiths, Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism. The Hindu caves represent energy, whereas the Jain and Buddha caves depict calmness and peace.

 Experimentations with wood in the 1950s
The sculptors started experimenting with stone and wood during the 1950s. If you analyze the art of that time, you will realize how various sculptures expressed their spiritual side through their works. We can compare a lot of these artworks (especially the theme) to the classical sculptural styles. Experimentation was also done to create unexplored relationships between theme, material, and form. European aesthetics also played a crucial role during this era, as it induced a quest for pure form.

 The current era
A lot of sculptors are taking the legacy of modern sculpture ahead, Neeraj Gupta is one of the prominent names. His art sculptures in mediums like wood, metal, and stone revolve around various themes, ranging from figural distortion to dance forms. His art is publically displayed at places like Nehru Park, Delhi, NDMC Lawns, Gyaananda School, and Lodhi Garden.

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