Kailash Raj

Kailash Raj

Kailash Raj is a descendant of a family of traditional Jaipur painters, and was strongly influenced by his grandfather (Nanu Lal) and by work of his great-grandfather (Amba Shankhar). His family is one of the few who managed to keep their traditional art alive throughout the 20th century, by continuing to serve as painters for the Jaipur royal family. Today, Kailash Raj is the master artist of his workshop, with several apprentices under his tutelage. In addition, he serves as a mentor to young artists from other areas of Rajasthan, who travel to him for guidance and inspiration. Although schooled in the family Jaipuri tradition (earlier known as Amber school), Kailash has studied Mughal and regional styles intensively, and he and his workshop produce fine works inspired by other schools.

The family tradition is furthered by his younger brother Mahesh Raj, and his cousin Kailash. They excel in Mughal-style portraiture, and Mahesh Raj is becoming known for his lovely animal studies and landscape works. Kailash Raj has recently begun working in a new style which combines his talent for superb detail work with his interest in portraiture, resulting in works of exceeding delicacy and interest.