Tamarind Art Council hosted a lecture by the grandson of legendary Indian painter Raja Ravi Varma, entitled ‘Artistic Genius of Raja Ravi Varma’ (slide Show and talk)

Jay Varma is himself a gifted artist. In his slide show on April 28, he shared rare anecdotes that map evolution of Ravi Varma’s art journey. Raja Ravi Varma is still considered one of India’s most highly regarded artists. The presentation illustrated his relevance in Indian art today.

Jay Varma hails from Travancore’s illustrious royal family. He is a colored pencil artist who combines a dramatic sense of color with meticulous detailing. His style puts together a unique and subtly rendered application of brilliant and bold color with an impeccable realism. Essentially a self taught artist, his work shows particular attention to light.

Jay Varma carries a rich history of artistic reputation and skill through four generations of his famous family. His great grandfather was the master oil painter. Kerala Varma, his grandfather, mastered charcoal and pencil work. Rukmini Varma, his mother, paints in oil. Her work is in major collections all across the world.

Jay Varma’s skill won him the highly regarded ‘Sanford Award for exceptional Merit’ in 2000 at the 8th Colored Pencil competition in Birmingham. Colored pencil is regarded as one of the most challenging and demanding of all mediums. It surprises and delights with its vast range of mood and subtlety. Jay is presently working on a series of drawings & paintings of the human form, landscapes and still life – modeled in the rich tradition of the great Italian & French Ateliers. His work will reveal his unique style embedded in the glorious tradition of his artistic family.

Tamarind Art Council is a non-profit body that sponsors art related events and activities to enhance awareness of art and culture.