The correct option is 2 and 3 only.
Explanation
Group 1890 was a significant, though short-lived, collective of Indian artists formed in 1962. It sought to define a new indigenous modernism distinct from both the revivalist traditions of the past and the derivative influences of European modern art.
Statement 1 is Incorrect.
Group 1890 was not a long-lived movement. It was extremely short-lived. The group held its first and only exhibition in 1963 in New Delhi, which was inaugurated by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. Soon after this exhibition, the group disbanded, and the members pursued their individual artistic paths. It did not dominate Indian art for decades as an organized collective.
Statement 2 is Correct.
The group consisted of twelve members. Prominent artists associated with Group 1890 included J. Swaminathan (the ideologue of the group), Gulam Mohammed Sheikh, Jyoti Bhatt, Jeram Patel, Himmat Shah, and Raghav Kaneria. The group was named "1890" simply because their first meeting took place at a house numbered 1890 (belonging to J. Pandya) in Bhavnagar, Gujarat.
Statement 3 is Correct.
The manifesto of Group 1890 emphasized the autonomy of the image. They rejected "vulgar naturalism," "pastoral idealism" (associated with the Bengal School), and the rigid "isms" of European art. They advocated for a fresh look at materials and the creative process, focusing on the "virginity of the canvas" and the immediate experience of art, free from set programmes, ideologies, or interpretative burdens.
Key Takeaway:
Group 1890 (formed in 1962) was a short-lived modern art collective led by J. Swaminathan. It is known for its rejection of established artistic ideologies and its focus on the raw, material presence of the artwork. Its only exhibition was held in 1963.