Bhupen Khakhar

I often get confused with Bhupen Khakhar. He was a successful contemporary artist from Vadodara( Baroda) India. An activist too.

He qualified as a Chartered Accountant. He used to paint on Sundays. Sunday is really the only day off in India. Mark you if you have the money all your domestic chores have been taken care of.

He gave up his world to become a fulltime artist in Vadodara. Rumour has it that he was living in a room to start with. With many large rats.

As success reached him he ended up with a nice house. He was single and passed away due to cancer. His adopted family ( his servants) cared for him to the end. The Ranas of Sarjan Art Gallery were particularly close to him. I visited his house in Vadodara and was impressed with his collection of Indian Miniatures hung along the staircase up.

His work , sometimes immensely controversial, was almost child like. Delicate with water colour tinges.

When I visit Brisbane I try and view his “ Ba and Bapuji go for Yatra’ at GOMA. Yatra means pilgrimage. Every Hindu if lucky can do one in their life time. Goma had a wonderful visionary curator at some stage ( was it Michael Brand now the director at AGNSW?) who purchased Indian Contemporary works at low prices. Perhaps Philip Bacon the Brisbane Art Dealer and indophile helped this purchase. Bhupen Khakhar now very valuable….

What makes an accountant become an artist? Is it important?

What do you think? – in this world of comings and goings.

In Indian scriptures various types of human traits are discussed

A Brahmin’s nature- self controlled, tranquillity, purity of heart, patience, humility, learning, austerity, wisdom, faith

A person in Trade- Courage, strength, fortitude, dexterity, generosity, leadership, and firm resolve never to retreat

Did Bhupen Khakhar make a transition? Was Michael Brand the Brahmin? Was Philip Bacon the Brahmin?

A possible breakfast for Bhupen Khakhar

Tea

Sorghum Chapattis

Hot Pickle

Corn curry

Shredded carrots and thinly sliced oranges

Profiteroles

Fenugreek, Black Pepper and Cottage Cheese
and roses on the table

In GOMA collection by Bhupen Khakhar

others round the world