Gian Singh (artist)

Gian Singh (1883 – 1953), known as Gian Singh Naqqash, was an Indian artist who specialized in naqqashi (engraving) and mohrakashi (fresco) methods. He was a fresco painter and worked at the Golden Temple for more than 33 years. He is particularly known for painting in the style that is known as the Sikh school of art. He was notable for localizing Sikh art by developing a local Punjabi style that was disassociated from the Pahari style, specifically the Kangra variety, and Persian art styles, which had influenced Punjabi and Sikh art prior. Gian Singh achieved this by incorporating local Punjabi features, dress, and settings in the depicted figuratives. Later-on in his life, he was awarded and recognized by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee for his artistic efforts.