Amrita Sher-Gil Self Portrait 5 (1932)
Created in 1932 during her time in Paris, Amrita Sher-Gil's 'Self-Portrait 5' is a striking oil on canvas measuring 43 × 54.5 cm. This work is not just a depiction of her likeness but a reflection of her personal and artistic evolution. Sher-Gil's ability to fuse Indian and European artistic traditions is on full display, as she navigates her identity and experiences in the art world. 'Self-Portrait 5' holds a special place in the collection of the National Gallery of Modern Art in New Delhi, symbolizing her significant contributions to modern Indian art.
1932
About the Artwork
Amrita Sher-Gil, often celebrated as India's Frida Kahlo, painted 'Self-Portrait 5' in 1932 amid her formative years in Paris. This was a time of great artistic growth for Sher-Gil as she absorbed the influences of European modernism while retaining her Indian heritage. The self-portrait captures her introspection and emotional depth, revealing her internal struggle and the exploration of identity as an artist. This painting is part of a series where she sought to express not only her appearance but the complexities of being a woman artist in a changing world. It is a vital testament to her legacy, representing the merging of cultures and artistic ideologies.
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Did You Know
During her time in Paris, Sher-Gil was deeply influenced by the European modernist movement which encouraged her to experiment with her artistic style, leading to bold expressions of her identity.
Amrita Sher-Gil is regarded as one of the first women artists in India to gain international recognition, breaking barriers in a predominantly male-dominated art world during the early 20th century.
Today, ‘Self-Portrait 5’ is housed in the National Gallery of Modern Art in New Delhi, which holds several key works by Sher-Gil and celebrates her contributions to Indian modern art.
