K.T. Shivaprasad,a multifaceted artist,activist, photographer,and architect, died on June 29, 2026,in Bengaluru. He was 78. His passing followed a brief hospitalization due to breathing complications, which arose after a recent recovery from kidney surgery.
Born on July 5,1947, in Hassan,Shivaprasad's artistic journey began during his student years at Ramakrishna Ashrama in Mysuru. Initially pursuing a degree in engineering at Malnad College of Engineering, he soon shifted his focus to art, enrolling at prestigious Sir J.J. School of Art in Mumbai. His early works,characterized by experimental abstraction, later evolved into figurative realism,reflecting the lives of rural communities he engaged with.
Shivaprasad's commitment to social justice was profound. Influenced by notable figures like writer Poornachandra Tejaswi and M.D . Nanjundaswamy, founder of the Karnataka Rajya Raitha Sangha (KRRS), he became an active participant in the farmers' movement . His travels with the KRRS deepened his understanding of agricultural issues,land rights, and struggles faced by cultivators.
His architectural contributions include the notable Kavishaila, a memorial dedicated to Kannada poet Kuvempu, located in Tirthahalli taluk. This project exemplified his belief in the philosophy of Aniketana, capturing Kuvempu's literary and spiritual essence. Alongside architecture,Shivaprasad was a visual chronicler of farmers' movement,capturing pivotal moments through his photography.
Despite achieving recognition in major galleries, Shivaprasad gradually distanced himself from conventional art circles. He devoted significant time to the Raitha Sangha,prioritizing activism over commercial success. His later years saw a shift towards Buddhist philosophy and aesthetics,further enriching his artistic perspective .
Shivaprasad was also deeply involved with Dalita Sangharsha Samiti, advocating for Dalit rights and social equity. His commitment to these causes was unwavering, even as he came from a wealthy industrialist background. Mavalli Shankar, founder of DSS,remarked on Shivaprasad's role as a steadfast pillar for the organization, highlighting his dedication to social justice.
In addition to his activism, he contributed to the Odanadi Seva Trust in Mysuru, focusing on the rehabilitation of human trafficking victims . His diverse engagements reflect a life dedicated to both art and activism,intertwining his creative pursuits with a commitment to societal change.
Family sources indicated that Shivaprasad's remains would be available for public viewing at the Kannada Sahitya Parishat in Hassan on July 1,from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The final rites are scheduled for later that day in the city,allowing friends,family,and admirers to pay their respects to a man whose legacy spans both artistic and social realms .
