Green Tree Magnet Post-It

Rajan Krishnan (1968–2016) was a distinguished modern Indian artist known for redefining landscape art with his surreal and evocative creations. Born in the village of Pallikkal in Kerala’s Thrissur district, Rajan initially pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Economics. However, his passion for the visual arts led him to leave his studies in 1990 and enroll at the College of Fine Arts, Thiruvananthapuram, where he earned a Bachelor’s in Fine Arts. He further honed his craft by completing a Master’s in Fine Arts at M.S. University, Baroda, graduating in 1996.

Unlike many contemporaries who gravitated towards metropolitan art hubs, Rajan chose to return to Kerala. He began his career as a guest lecturer at his alma mater in Thiruvananthapuram before relocating to Kochi in 2000. There, he became an influential figure in Kerala’s burgeoning art scene, organizing exhibitions and actively participating in group shows. His first solo exhibition at Kashi Art Gallery in 2004 marked a turning point, establishing him as a leading voice in contemporary Indian art. Over the years, his works were showcased in prestigious venues such as Jehangir Art Gallery (Mumbai), Vadehra Art Gallery (New Delhi), and Bodhi Art (Singapore).

Rajan’s art transcends traditional depictions of nature. Through mixed media, experimental techniques and vivid, non-naturalistic colours, he created surreal landscapes that delve into the subconscious. These fantastical terrains reflect the intricacies of the human psyche, solidifying his legacy as a visionary artist.