Born in Baroda in 1935, Naina Dalal pursued her passion for art through rigorous academic training, earning a BA in Painting and an MA in Fine Arts from Baroda University in 1959 She expanded her skills in lithography at the London Polytechnic from 1960 to 1963 and further honed her craft in etching at the Pratt Graphic Centre in New York in 1977 Her extensive education laid the foundation for a diverse and impactful career

Dalal's artistic oeuvre is a compelling exploration of the human condition, with a particular focus on women as central figures embodying pain and emotion Her works, spanning graphics and paintings, are noted for their frontal representation, creating a powerful resonance with viewers Her etchings and drawings capture the nuanced journeys of Indian women with remarkable sensitivity, reflecting her personal perspective against societal restrictions to pursue her passion

Being one of the pioneering Indian women in printmaking, Dalal's training in this field significantly influenced her painting technique She gained a deeper understanding of tonal values, which led to a transformative shift in her use of colour The 1970s and 1980s saw her concentrating on etching and calligraphy, where she developed a distinctive style characterised by its unique ethos and imagery

Naina Dalal's illustrious career includes numerous solo exhibitions, group showcases, and retrospective displays Her contributions to the art world have been recognized with numerous awards and fellowships Her works are featured in prestigious collections worldwide, including the Victoria and Albert Museum in London and the Berlin Museum of Indian Art Dalal's legacy is one of profound influence, resonating through the global art scene