Lovers of art in India have not far had the opportunity to see the developments in art in the contemporary world. Periodical exhibitions of world art, such as are held in Venice or Paris, were not attempted so far in this country as there was no machinery or institution to undertake the responsibility. The Lalit Kala Akademi has now filled this void and has initiated the project of Triennals of contemporary international art. This venture forms a part of major projects organised under the auspices of UNESCO. This first Triennale was inauguraed at New Delhi by the Preident of India, Dr. Zakir Husain on the10th February, 1968. The exhibits for the Indian Section have been carefully selected by the well-known experts in the field. A large number of exhibits from as many as 32 countries are on view at the show.

These include Western countries as well as quite a few Alfrow-Asian countries. The works of art on display comprise graphics, paintings and sculptures. An International jury of art critics and connoisseurs have choosen te exhibits considered worthy of awards. The awards have been made separately for the International Section and the Indian Section. The first Triennale-India is an event of major significance to artists in India and abroad. Modern art is an expression of groping and questioning of artists in the mdst of challenges which are now facing humanity. Therefore experimentalism is the keynote of present world of art, of which Indian art is an integral part.

The doubts besetting man are basically common to India and to the rest of the world without the barrier of any frontier. The First Triennale will undoubtedly contribute to the free interplay of ideas among he artists of India and the other countries, which is so essential in these times of uncertainty and conflict. It will also enable our artists to become better known outside India. The Indian Posts and Telegraphs Department is specially interested in the developments in Indian art because the postage stamps issued by it are largely an artistic representation of the various facts of Indian life and culture.

The Department is happy to associate itself with this great exhibition of world art and to issue a special postage stamp to commemorate it.

Source : Information Folder issued by Indian Posts & Telegraph Department, Government of India