Shri Chitra Art Gallery

The former Maharaja of Travancore, Sri Chithira Thirunal, officially inaugurated the Sri Chithra Art Gallery to the public in 1935. Dr. J.H.Cousins, the Art Advisor to the Government of Travancore, is largely responsible for establishing the gallery. Its extensive collection includes works from all around India and even some neighboring Asian countries. The Royal House of Travancore and the Royal Family of Kilimanoor have given a vast array of artworks as a gift to this gallery. 

Which exhibits to see in the Shri Chitra Art Gallery?

• Featuring many works by Raja Ravi Varma, the Sri Chitra Art Gallery is a must-see for art enthusiasts. He was a member of Kilimanoor's royal dynasty and became famous around the world after taking home a prize at a Vienna art exhibition in 1873. - Milk Maid, Mohini Rugmangada, Hamsa Damayanthi, and Gypsies of South India are only a few of his well-known works. 
• Abanindranath Tagore, Gaganendranath Tagore, Rabindranath Tagore, A.P. Dube, Nandalal Bose, D.P. Roy Chaudhari, Kanu Desai, and Minishi dey all have pieces on display here. 
• The paintings by Russian artists Nicholas Roerich and his son Svetoslav Roerich are inspired by the stunning scenery of the Himalayas Kulu and Manali districts. 
• Persian miniatures are an inspiration for the album paintings that flourished throughout the Mughal era, thanks to Indian influences. 
• The paintings from Rajasthan on show stood out with their brighter hues, stylized depictions of humans, and ornate landscapes. 
• The extension of the Majapahit Kingdom to Bali in the late 13th century gave rise to another Hindu-Japanese art form on display at the gallery. These are traditional two-dimensional drawings made on cloth or bark paper with organic pigments.
• The exhibition features a classical painting style from the Indian state of Tamil Nadu's Tanjavur region. The paintings' dense composition, bright colors, and smooth surface are hallmarks. All sorts of Hindu deities and saints populate these canvases. 
• Tibetan Buddhist thangkas are also worth a look here. Typically featuring a Buddhist deity, scene, or mandala, these paintings are crafted on cotton or silk appliqué.