Laxma Goud

(Indian, B.1940)

Untitled (Demon)

Footnotes

Provenance
Property from a private collection, LA.
Gifted to the vendor on the occasion of his wedding in September 1983 by Erwin Binder, the sculptor.

Laxma Goud is a renowned Indian artist and printmaker known for his distinct style and exploration of various mediums. Goud's artistic journey began in the late 1950s when he enrolled at the College of Fine Arts and Architecture in Hyderabad. He further pursued his studies at the prestigious Faculty of Fine Arts at M.S. University, Baroda. During his time in Baroda, Goud developed a keen interest in printmaking, which would become one of his signature art forms.

Goud is celebrated for his ability to combine traditional Indian artistic techniques with contemporary themes. He often delves into the rich tapestry of Indian mythology, bringing to life the captivating stories and characters that have been an integral part of Indian culture for centuries. His etchings often feature gods, goddesses, demons (as is the case with the present lot), and heroes from Hindu mythology, capturing their essence and the symbolism associated with them.

One of the striking aspects of Goud's etchings is his intricate attention to detail. He meticulously crafts each line and texture, creating a rich visual texture that draws the viewer into the mythical world he portrays. Through his etchings, Goud not only captures the narratives but also explores the psychological and emotional aspects of the mythological characters. He portrays their struggles, triumphs, and the underlying human emotions that make these ancient stories resonate with contemporary audiences.

Over the years, Goud's art gained international acclaim, and his works have been exhibited in prestigious galleries and museums around the world. Some notable exhibitions include the São Paulo Biennale, Brazil, 1977; Contemporary Indian Painting, Festival of India, Royal Academy of Art, London, 1982; Contemporary Art of India, The Herwitz Collection, USA, 1986 and the National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi, 1993 to name a few. His works are held in the collections of the Glenbarra Museum, Japan, the National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi and the Peabody Essex Museum, Salem Massachusetts. In 2016, the Government of India bestowed him with the Padma Shri.

Erwin Binder (1934-1993) was a sculptor and veteran of the United States Air Force. He studied at the Otis Arts Institute and is most well-known for his piece, 'Requiem,' created in 1988. Binder's sculpture was designed in the manner of an abstract eternal flame, whose wing like qualities were meant to commemorate the defenders of the constitution. It was funded by the actor Bob Hope, and the mayor of Burbank, California, Michael Hastings and was installed in Burbank's Johnny Carson Park on Riverside Drive.