Your Ultimate Art Travel Guide: The Delhi Edition
Delhi besides being the Capital of the Country, is undoubtedly one of the most iconic Art Capitals of India. Be it the enthralling influences of Art and Architecture left by the Mughals as an unforgettable legacy, or the astonishing Art Galleries which have preserved the works of some of the most Legendary Indian Artists, this city’s Art scenes will make you gape in wonder and fascination. Let’s start with the essentials then, shall we?
1. Delhi Art Gallery
The first one on this list has to be the first among the equals. Indian Modernism is displayed at the Delhi Art Gallery at its best, with Indian and European Contemporary Artists contributing to its spectacular exhibitions, which are a treat to curators and collectors from all over the country. The Gallery is located at Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Road but the Head Office is situated in the famous Hauz Khas Area. It boasts a selection of popular hangout cafes and restaurants; so you can definitely stop by for a tasty treat once you’ve had your fill of Art Love for the day.
2. Vadehra Art Gallery
This place is definitely an Indian Artist’s delight. It showcases the works of some of the most popular artists who have carved their niche in the Art World globally, such as SH Raza, MF Hussain, Tyeb Mehta, to name a few. It was established in 1987, and it is safe to say that it merges the rich history of Indian Art and Contemporary Art forms now QUITE impeccably.
3. National Gallery Of Modern Art
This is India’s very own Museum Of Modern Art. It was established by the Indian Government way back in 1954. This gallery hosts the works of the Crème de la Crème of the Indian Art Society, including the works of Artists such as Raja Ravi Verma, Rabindranath Tagore, Abanindranath Tagore, Jamini Roy, Amrita Sher-gil and Nandalal Bose. It is India’s Premier Art Gallery and is managed by the Ministry of Culture. But unfortunately due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, the Government has issued a notice of temporary closure to visitors till further orders in public interest.
- Besides these Beautiful Art Galleries that Delhi boasts of, there is a rich legacy of monuments left behind by the Mughals, which you must visit to enlighten your artistic taste buds. There’s the famous Red Fort built by Shah Jahan, which was considered a political center back then. Then there’s the Red Sandstone and Marble Beauty which is the Qutub Minar, surrounded by its gorgeous gardens. It is a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site, so don’t forget to add it to your checklist while exploring the Art scenes in Delhi. Luckily, there are no tourist and visiting restrictions in these places because of the pandemic.
- Make sure that you don’t miss out to visit Humayun’s Tomb, The Lodi Gardens, Safdarjung’s Tomb and The Jama Masjid. These iconic monuments were the Mughal rulers’ Architectural indulgences, and they continue to awe us long after they’ve been constructed.
- Truly Delhi boasts the Richest Art legacy in India, and the next time you plan to take a tour of the city, make sure you dedicate a few days of your trip to visit these historical masterpieces.
This was all about the Art Galleries and Monuments in Delhi. There’s also the Cool Street and Metro Art which you can definitely check out. The Art at the new Magenta Line is a classic example of what we’re talking about. There’s honestly so much happening in Delhi, that an artist can never get bored while surfing and exploring new creative possibilities.
- For instance you can join the Artist Retreat Programs at Sanskriti Museums to teach and learn different Art Forms. You can also transform the walls of Delhi and make them your very own canvas by joining their Street Art Groups. Their social media communities will keep you posted about their new projects, so that you can volunteer the next time!
- If your heart goes out to support traditional artists and local craftsmen, you can contact the Delhi Crafts Council which is a registered, voluntary non-profit organization working for the promotion and development of these talented local artists. They market, design and identify young talent to support them, and if you want to act as patron in doing this, be sure to help them out.
Be it Historical buildings or galleries, Street Art, Retreat Programs or Supporting the local crafts community, Delhi is definitely the Nation’s Art Capital; owing this to its rich and diverse activities and endeavours for the Art Industry.