K.C.S. Paniker

Born in 1911 in Coimbatore, K.C.S. Paniker is revered as a master artist and a key figure in shaping the Madras Art Movement. Assuming the role of Principal at the Government College of Fine Arts, Chennai in 1957, he left an indelible mark on the Indian art scene. He was also one of the co-founders of the Cholamandal Artists Village, Chennai. Paniker's artistic journey began with watercolour paintings inspired by his experiences in Malabar, evolving into abstract works that seamlessly integrated vernacular words and symbols. His visionary goal was to amalgamate Native art with European Modernism, leaving a lasting legacy in Indian art.