About the Artist
Chelian, born in 1961 in the culturally rich town of Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, was an artist whose vision and dedication spanned multiple disciplines. His formal training at the Government College of Fine Arts in Kumbakonam set the foundation for a career marked by an intricate balance between tradition and innovation. Early in his life, Chelian embraced the roles of both artist and photographer, working for four years at the Tamil University in Thanjavur. It was here that he produced over 16 volumes of illustrations and photographs, a body of work that exemplified his mastery over both mediums. His collaborations with the painting and theater departments on folk dance and art projects further expanded his artistic repertoire, reflecting his deep connection to the cultural roots of his homeland.
For over 30 years, Chelian’s artistry was intertwined with the field of medical science. As an artist-cum-micro photographer at the Government Medical College and Hospital, he crafted intricate medical illustrations and clinical photographs that transcended the purely scientific, turning anatomical precision into works of art. His crowning achievement during this period was the creation of the ‘Prof. Venkataswami Plastic Surgery Museum,’ a space that brought together paintings, medical illustrations, and photographs to educate, inspire, and honor the intersection of art and medical science.
Chelian’s influence, however, was not confined to the medical world. From 1980 until his final years, he exhibited extensively across India and the world, leaving his indelible mark on the global art scene.
His portfolio includes an impressive 45 solo exhibitions and more than 100 group shows, including international art fairs in Dubai, Malaysia, Singapore, and beyond. Each exhibition was a testament to his ability to convey universal emotions through a distinctly Indian lens, his work echoing themes that resonate across cultural and geographical boundaries. His contributions were recognized with numerous state-level and all-India awards, accolades that only scratched the surface of his artistic impact.
Beyond exhibitions, Chelian nurtured the next generation of artists through his role as a guest lecturer at art colleges and universities across Tamil Nadu. His participation in artist camps, workshops, and residencies reflected his lifelong commitment to creativity, constantly pushing the boundaries of his craft. He embraced cross-media exploration, whether illustrating poetry, creating live stage paintings, or fusing art with music, allowing him to break free from the traditional confines of canvas and sculpture.
Chelian passed away on 10 April 2022 in India, leaving behind a legacy not only of artistic excellence but also of passion, innovation, and cultural reverence. His vast collection of works is now being meticulously preserved and restored. The Chelian Art Gallery, managed and directed by his son, continues to safeguard his legacy, ensuring that his creations remain accessible to the world. His artworks, housed in museums, galleries, and private collections across the globe, remain a testament to his profound artistic journey—one that continues to inspire long after his passing.
