Welcome to this week's edition of Homegrown's Culture Bulletin, where we dive into a vibrant tapestry of creativity and expression shaping the cultural landscape of India. From immersive art exhibitions to captivating literary endeavors and groundbreaking cinematic achievements, this week's bulletin is a celebration of the diverse narratives and artistic endeavors that define our collective identity.
In this edition, we delve into a variety of creative expressions, from an immersive celebration of screen printing's artistry to an anthology of Gujarati pulp fiction stories. We also highlight gender-bending published works, captivating new fashion collections, and groundbreaking cinematic endeavors that challenge conventions and redefine storytelling. Join us on this journey through India's creative and cultural landscape.
EVENTS
The Boring Party By Dirty Hands
Dirty Hands Co., a Print Club initiative by Mumbai's Homework Coolkids Studio, invites art enthusiasts and print lovers to The Boring Party, a week-long celebration of screen printing's beauty and artistry. Running from April 20th to 26th, 2024, at Subko Mary Lodge Bandra, this exhibition features 16 diverse Indian artists showcasing their unique vision through hand-pulled prints. With only 15 copies of each artwork available for purchase, owning one becomes a chance to possess a truly exclusive piece. Complementing the exhibition are 5 immersive art workshops, providing participants with hands-on experience in screen printing.
Check it out here.
BOOKS
The Blaft Anthology of Gujarati Pulp Fiction
Blaft Publications is set to introduce a captivating collection of Gujarati pulp fiction to a wider audience with The Blaft Anthology of Gujarati Pulp Fiction. This anthology, curated by Blaft, showcases a range of fast-paced novellas and short stories from the 1920s to the 2010s, translated into English for the first time. The anthology not only brings these thrilling narratives to English readers but also features original illustrations and a stunning gallery of vintage cover art. Leading this project is Vishwambhari S. Parmar, a passionate translator from Baroda, Gujarat, who joined Blaft in 2021 and has since delved deep into the world of Gujarati pulp fiction to create this groundbreaking anthology.
Check it out here.
BOYS WILL BE TOYS
BOYS WILL BE TOYS is a photobook that delves into the complexities of boyhood, questioning the traditional boundaries of masculinity and femininity. Through a blend of performance and photography, the project explores how children transform and redefine gender norms through imaginative play. It raises thought-provoking questions about the fluidity of gender expression and the intersection of masculine and feminine traits. The book will be launched alongside a performance at Two Extra Lives, a concept store in Bombay, on Saturday, April 13th, 2024, from 6-9 pm.
Check it out here.
FASHION
The Lola & Koki Collection by Roma Narsinghani
Roma's latest collection is a tribute to her native culture and familial ties, named after her parents. Roma, a conceptual jewellery designer, infuses each piece with personal meaning and a deep exploration of her Sindhi heritage. The collection is not just about adornment but also about storytelling, drawing inspiration from historic literature, folk music, dance, and traditional crafts. What sets this collection apart is Roma's innovative use of eco-friendly materials, such as bio-beads developed in collaboration with sustainable materials researcher Aradhita Parasrampuria.
Check it out here.
Royal Enfield x Huemn
Royal Enfield and Huemn have teamed up for a collaboration inspired by the Hunter 350 roadster motorcycle, resulting in the 'A Shot of Mumbai' fashion collection. This collection captures the essence of Mumbai as a vibrant and diverse city through hand-drawn prints that symbolize its art and vitality. The riotous palette of colors used in the prints reflects the energy and excitement of urban culture; creating a fashion line that embodies the spirit of motoculture meeting urban flair.
Check it out here.
FOOD & DRINKS
Santa Maria - Your Local Sandwich Shop
Santa Maria in Ranwar village, Bandra, is more than a sandwich spot; it's a cultural hub where flavors and stories blend seamlessly. Known as 'your local sandwich house,' Santa Maria offers a diverse menu featuring deli favorites, burgers, and artisanal sandwiches that reflect India's rich culinary heritage, including influences from Goan, East Indian, Catholic, Manglorean, and Pitt Boy cuisines. What sets Santa Maria apart is its strong community connection, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of an old Goan farmhouse, adorned with sandwich names honoring local artists and friends.
Check it out here.
Molasses In Pondicherry
Molasses offers a unique farm-to-table dining experience rooted in ecological restoration and sustainable agriculture. Founded by Rachna Rao, Molasses showcases locally sourced ingredients in dishes like the banana leaf meal, highlighting vegan, vegetarian, and non-vegetarian options grown on the farm. Located in Molasur Village near Tindivanam, Molasses provides a serene backdrop of banyan trees and wildlife, reminding diners of their connection to the larger ecosystem. This immersive setting, coupled with HGP's expertise in farm-fresh ingredients, creates an unforgettable dining escape from urban life, making Molasses a hidden gem in Pondicherry's culinary landscape.
Check it out here.
PRODUCT
The Strange Co. By Satabdi Jena
The Strange Co. redefines the ordinary through a lens of freshness and novelty, crafting handmade products that reflect mood, nature, food, and art. Each creation embodies a philosophy of playful wonder, inviting interactions that spark joy and appreciation for the extraordinary in everyday life. Sustainability is central to The Strange Co.'s ethos, seen in their use of local clay, natural dyes, and minimalist designs that prioritize meaningful connections over material excess. Founder Satabdi Jena's artistic journey infuses the brand with a fusion of functionality and fantasy, celebrating individuality and human diversity through unique creations that tell stories and capture raw emotions with finesse.
Check it out here.
EXHIBITION
BISKIT x CAPSUL - LOT 202401 Exhibition Tour
Biskit and Capsul unveil the 'LOT 202401 Exhibition Tour', a pioneering blend of fashion, art, and technology, kicking off at the Bombay Store on April 13th and 14th. This tour introduces Biskit's latest collection, 'LOT 202401', inspired by Space and Mind themes and limited to 21 editions per garment, ensuring exclusivity and allure. Visitors experience an immersive journey through Biskit's virtual store, powered by technology partners Imersive.io, where they can explore the collection in Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality. This tour, spanning multiple cities including Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Bangalore, showcases Biskit's creativity and Capsul's role as a cultural hub for streetwear and lifestyle, blending artistry with cutting-edge retail experiences.
Check it out here.
WORKSHOPS
Jewellery Making Workshop By Unbaked
Unbaked, known for its exquisite polymer clay jewellery, is hosting a beginner-friendly jewellery making workshop in collaboration with HTC on April 13th. Founded by Samriddhi in 2019, Unbaked emphasizes sustainability, self-expression, and quality craftsmanship in every piece. The workshop offers hands-on experience in clay conditioning, marbling techniques, proper baking methods, and jewellery assembly under expert guidance. Participants can expect to create 1-2 pairs of unique earrings, making this workshop a creative and fulfilling exploration into the art of polymer clay jewellery making.
Check it out here.
Tattoo Workshop At Ironhill, Hyderabad
Join Ironhill Hyderabad for an exclusive tattoo workshop in collaboration with Aliens Tattoo India, offering hands-on training using tattoo machines on artificial skin. Participants will receive complimentary expert consultation and guidance, along with the opportunity to choose from a selection of stunning flash tattoos or collaborate with expert artists to design their custom tattoos. This workshop on April 21st from 12 PM to 6 PM at Ironhill Hyderabad provides a sneak peek into the art and craft of being a tattoo artist, making it a must-attend event for tattoo enthusiasts and aspiring artists alike.
Check it out here.
FILM
All We Imagine as Light By Payal Kapadia
Payal Kapadia's debut fiction feature All We Imagine as Light is set to compete for the prestigious Palme d’Or award at the Cannes Film Festival, marking the first Indian film in nearly four decades to vie for this honor. Scheduled for May 14 to 25, the festival's 77th edition will showcase Kapadia's film alongside works by renowned filmmakers such as Francis Ford Coppola, Sean Baker, and Yórgos Lánthimos. Greta Gerwig, director of 'Ladybird,' will lead the jury. This selection reflects the growing recognition of Indian cinema on the global stage, with 'All We Imagine as Light' poised to make a significant impact in the competition section.
Check it out here.
MUSIC
Museum by Tejas
In his latest EP Museum, Mumbai-based singer-songwriter Tejas delves into a deeply personal exploration of loss, redemption, and identity. Inspired by narratives like The Lion King and Hamlet, as well as his own experiences and relationship with his late father, Tejas crafts a poignant and introspective collection of songs. Blending English pop with classical Indian instrumentation, Museum serves as a platform for Tejas to reconcile with memories of his father and delve into his identity as an Indian and immigrant.
Check it out below.
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