Satish Gujral (1925–2020) was an internationally renowned artist, muralist, sculptor, architect, and writer, celebrated as a pioneer of modernism in post-Independence India. In his pursuit of a distinct Indian artistic identity, free from European influence, he became a key figure in shaping contemporary Indian art.
Born in Jhelum, Punjab, Gujral’s early years were marked by a hearing disability, which led him to immerse himself in drawing and Urdu literature. He studied at the Mayo School of Art in Lahore and later at the JJ School of Art in Bombay.
Gujral’s work was defined by mechanical and robotic forms, a theme he explored extensively in his ceramic murals, which captivated him for two decades. He drew inspiration from India’s traditional arts, incorporating industrial materials like steel, copper, and glass into his sculptures, often using vibrant enamel colors. Later, he experimented with junk sculptures, incorporating light and sound elements.
Throughout his career, Gujral created landmark murals in ceramics, tiles, and steel, both in India and abroad. He passed away on March 26, 2020, at the age of 94 in New Delhi.