President condoles death of eminent painter

President Pranab Mukherjee Tuesday condoled the death of eminent artist Prokash Karmakar.

In a message, the president said Karmakar was an "eminent artist" and a "role model for modern and contemporary Indian painters".

"His singular contribution to Indian arts was recognised through a number of awards, including the Lalit Kala Akademi National Award. He will be a source of inspiration for all those interested in art and culture and his death leaves a void in the world of art and creativity," Mukherjee said.

Karmakar, 81, passed away Tuesday following age-related illness.

Influenced by works of Picasso and the classic impressionists, Karmakar reflected in his paintings the degenerating society and the confusion that prevails in modern India.