Laxman Pai (b.1926) believed in the liveliness of humans and nature. He focuses on depicting the vibrant colours and environment of his surroundings and mentions encounters that have impacted him. His earlier paintings borrowed generously from ancient Egyptian sculptures with bodies portrayed in side profiles and faces in profile. His palette becomes brighter with every painting, and his lines become more rhythmic, creating a sense of flowing movement. This resonates with his view of life as well. Pai uses nature's beauty as his inspiration, creating a spiritual connection between him and his practice.
Laxman Pai has had over a hundred solo exhibitions; nine have been in Paris, where he worked for ten years (1951-61). His other exhibitions have been in London, Munich, Stuttgart, Bremen, New York, San Francisco, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, New Delhi, Bombay, Calcutta and Goa. He has also participated in Bribable San Paulo, Brazil. Laxman Pai has received three Lalit Kala national awards (1961, 1963 & 1972). He was awarded the prestigious Padma Shri by the government of India in 1985.
He studied at the Sir J.J. School of Art in Mumbai from 1943 to 47 and was awarded the prestigious Mayo Medal.