Ahmedabad: A bronze statue of MF Husain, shown barefoot and contemplative, with one seat left deliberately empty beside him, now stands outside Amdavad Ni Gufa. After nearly three decades as custodian of the iconic underground gallery, Relia is preparing to return its administration to the Ahmedabad Education Society. The statue is a memorial to his closest friend.
Statue Reflects Shared Moments
“He was with us for almost the last 20 years of his life,” Relia says of Husain. “He always used to come to Ahmedabad and stay with us.” The sculpture’s unhurried pose draws directly from those shared hours. “We have spent hours talking on the swing. I have many pictures showing us absorbed in conversation.”
Artistic Details and Symbolism
The statue captures Husain in a relaxed, barefoot posture, deep in thought. The empty seat beside him symbolizes his enduring presence and the conversations that remain. This memorial not only honors Husain's legacy but also marks a transition for the gallery's stewardship.
Gallery's Future
Relia's tenure as custodian has seen the gallery flourish as a cultural hub. With the administration returning to the Ahmedabad Education Society, the statue stands as a testament to the bond between artist and curator, ensuring Husain's spirit remains at the heart of Amdavad Ni Gufa.
