A. A. Almelkar

Hailing from Solapur, Maharashtra, he embarked on his artistic journey at a tender age of seven. After completing his formal education in a local school, he enrolled at the renowned Sir J. J. School of Arts in Mumbai. During his time as a student, he garnered numerous accolades at exhibitions held by the Art Society of India and the Bombay Art Society.

Almelkar acknowledged Khatri, a folk painter from Gujarat, as his mentor who instilled in him a passion for meticulous draftsmanship. Like many artists before him, he ventured into establishing his own unique artistic style early in his career. His work often revolved around portraying everyday people such as folk, fishermen, and tribal individuals. Through his emphasis on fundamental drawing skills, he seamlessly blended naturalistic and figurative elements with a touch of stylized folk art.
In his career, he served as the Principal of the esteemed art institute Nutan Kala Mandir in Bangalore and later took on a lecturer role at the Sir J. J. School of Arts in 1968. His shows won acclaim in Malaysia and in other Asian capitals too.

Almelkar passed away on December 1982 at the age of 62.

Submitted by Art Magnum