Relighting an Artist

 At the age of 14, he started his career with sketches further perfecting the art of oil paintings. He has made seven paintings on the eternal divine lovers Radha Krishna. Sometimes, it takes him an hour to paint a beautiful painting while at times even a month seems less.

India, known for its art and culture around the globe, does not treat the creators of art the way the artists deserve to be treated. They fail to get the much-needed recognition and the meagre pay cheques make things even more difficult for them. 

 Accepting this harsh reality, he started giving art classes to children. Alongside he made many beautiful paintings. From the line of teaching, he was appointed as the President of Lalit Kala Academy in 1984. 

He brought forth many country’s artists and painted on many social issues such as the plight of women, nature, diversity between men and women. He had inaugurated five Regional Art Centres in Delhi, Lucknow, Calcutta, Orissa and Chennai. He had to leave Lalit Kala Academy due to excessive political, such difficult situations in life had taught him a lot, he said.

A man, who believes in simple living and high thinking, is very fond of children. Every Sunday, he guides children to paint and motivates them to pursue their dreams. He makes his students understand that it is good to dream and gives them sincere advice. However, in order to live the dream one must have the courage and perseverance. By donating the money that he earns to poor, he feels content.

On March 31 when Bharat Ratna was conferred on educationist Madan Mohan Malaviya, the Srijan Artist Group organised an exhibition where Anand Dev’s painting was sold for Rs 1Lakh. On receiving the money, he sponsored a trip to South Africa for his students.