Shanti Dave (b. 1931) was born in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, and studied at the Faculty of Fine Arts, Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda. He later worked extensively as a muralist and painter, contributing to several public art projects.

Dave is known for his richly textured surfaces, often created using techniques such as encaustic, along with materials like wax, pigments, and sometimes gold leaf. His work frequently incorporates calligraphic marks and symbolic forms, creating layered compositions that balance materiality with visual rhythm.

He is regarded as an important figure in Indian modern art, particularly for his experimentation with surface and his ability to merge abstraction with elements of script and sign.