Kekoo Gandhy. Shaping the modern Indian art system

The article explores the pivotal role of Kekoo Gandhy, an influential art dealer, in shaping the modern Indian art market and promoting Indian modernism from the 1940s to the 1980s. Born into a wealthy Parsee family, Gandhy leveraged his international network to support and educate artists, establish public art institutions, and promote Indian art abroad. Initially involved in the art world through the Chemould frame shop, Gandhy's collaborations with European intellectuals and Indian modernists like the Progressive Artists Group provided foundational support for emerging artists. The article highlights Gandhy's instrumental efforts in founding institutions like the Jehangir Art Gallery in Bombay, fostering the early art gallery ecosystem in India, and spearheading initiatives to secure financial stability for artists during a nascent art market. Additionally, Gandhy worked to position Indian art on the international stage, organizing exhibitions in Europe and liaising with global networks, though he faced challenges due to Western-centric aesthetic frameworks. The narrative sheds light on the intertwined development of public and private art spheres, emphasizing Gandhy's enduring legacy in establishing India's modern art infrastructure and advocating for the global recognition of Indian art. Despite persistent cultural biases, his initiatives laid the groundwork for Indian artists' gradual acceptance in the international art community.