Evolution is the only constant. We evolve, our art evolves, and the world around us evolves. For an artist, stagnation is the greatest enemy. Today we are going to explore an exhibition featuring some talented contemporary homegrown artists whose artistic practices are in the constant process of evolution. Through an exhibtion aptly titled 'The Evolution of Now', Gallery Art Garde, founded by Teesta Bhandare, promises to unveil a captivating art exhibition that showcases not only the works of young Indians but is also tailored to young collectors.
Renowned for spearheading the Young Collectors' Weekend, an influential nationwide endeavor fostering connections between art practitioners and collectors at various stages of their journey, Teesta's latest venture promises to ignite meaningful discourse and engagement. Embracing the fusion of art and technology, the Young Collectors' exhibition transcends traditional boundaries through thought-provoking exhibitions, immersive workshops, and cutting-edge technological integration.
'The Evolution of Now' unites a diverse ensemble of 8 artists from different corners of India, each wielding a unique blend of style, medium, and genre. As the exhibition unfolds, visitors are invited to embark on a journey of self-discovery and evolution, finding familiarity and resonance within the inner workings of the showcased artistic practices. Simultaneously, these captivating displays offer fresh perspectives and alternative interpretations of contemporary realities, enriching the viewer's experience with multifaceted insights.
In a bold reflection of the present, the exhibition seamlessly intertwines art and technology, harnessing the power of blockchain to establish an unassailable chain of provenance. Each artwork's origin is intricately linked to its creator, safeguarded by Art Garde's proprietary technology, ensuring a transparent and immutable record of its genesis.
Let us explore the participating artists and their oeuvre.
Purvai Rai
A multi-faceted artist, Purvai's creations transcend traditional boundaries, weaving a narrative of societal upheavals and expressions of dissent. Her delicate graphite and ink drawings on rice paper serve as a poignant reflection on discrimination based on religion and cultural identity. Through abstract visual language, characterized by circles and elliptical patterns, Purvai masterfully alludes to the precariousness of existences on the margins, evoking contemplation and speculation.
Ritu Aggarwal
Hailing from the bustling urban center of New Delhi, Ritu Aggarwal's artistic journey is a captivating exploration of geometric abstraction and abstract illusionism. Her work delves into the complexities of urbanization, offering a thought-provoking commentary on interpretations and interactions with the surrounding spaces. Through vibrant two-dimensional picture planes and a rich palette of colors, Ritu's creations encapsulate certain moods and thoughts, reflecting her profound affinity for architectural forms.
Kaushik Saha
With a keen eye shaped by the tumultuous socio-political landscape of West Bengal, Kaushik's artistry offers a compelling glimpse into the evolving narratives of societal piety and urbanization. His evocative landscapes, devoid of vegetation but adorned with advertising billboards, serve as a striking portrayal of a consumer-driven society. Through a quasi-romantic expressionistic flourish, Kaushik's work captures the essence of a changing world, inviting viewers to ponder the bizarre and the ridiculous in the fabric of society.
Meera George
Meera's artistic practice is deeply intertwined with the pressing issue of climate change, as she endeavors to shed light on the alarming impact of rising sea temperatures on delicate coral life and biodiversity. Her mixed media artworks serve as a poignant reflection on coral bleaching, a haunting phenomenon that unfolds as a chilling yet beautiful cry for attention from the depths of our oceans. Through a captivating interplay of color, texture, and illusion, Meera's creations beckon viewers to contemplate the profound implications of environmental transformation.
Dheeraj Yadav
A master storyteller through lines and paper, Dheeraj's artistic practice is a testament to the boundless possibilities that unfold within the realm of creative expression. His drawings and mixed medium works serve as a captivating exploration of storytelling, inviting viewers to embark on a journey of imagination and interpretation.
Akshata Mokshi
Akshata's artistic prowess finds expression in the intricate art of tapestry weaving, a medium through which she breathes life into her passion for painting landscapes and observational drawings around nature. Her tapestries, often described as "painting by yarn," bear testament to her profound connection with the natural world, captivating audiences with their intricate beauty and evocative storytelling.
Pavan Kavitkar
Infused with the essence of everyday objects and the memories they evoke, Pavan's artistic practice serves as a poignant reflection of his experiences with migration and the emotional resonance of collected objects. Each work becomes a tangible representation of cherished memories and emotions, offering viewers a glimpse into the artist's evolving understanding of space and identity.
Sheena Bajaria
A maestro of spontaneous creation, Sheena's abstract creations and powerful brushstrokes mirror the ongoing evolution of our world, weaving stories that unfold with surprises and revelations. Her artistry invites viewers to immerse themselves in the palpable energy of each work, embarking on a journey of discovery and introspection.
About the Curator
Teesta Bhandare is the visionary force behind Art Mumbai and the trailblazing Young Collectors' Weekend. She has carved a path for a wider audience to appreciate art and provided new avenues for contemporary artists to thrive. Her unwavering commitment to fostering art appreciation and representation has earned her recognition as a curator, collector, and advisor, with a wealth of experience and insight that continues to shape the contemporary artistic landscape.
Evolution of Now
Date: 11th- 14th of January, 2024
Venue: Kathiwada City House, Mumbai
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