The National capital of India houses some of the most exemplary artwork by creatives from around the country. Delhi acts as a canvas on which both renowned names of the industry, as well as first-timers, can play out their most untamed ideas. The city dictates significant sales in the South Asian market while still retaining the cultural ecosystem. The exponential rise of young collectors, new gallerists, foundations and professional exhibition designers in Delhi are all indications that the art scene is thriving and continues to grow organically.
Here are some places to visit as an art enthusiast while exploring Delhi.
Image Courtesy: Gulbahaar
I. Triveni Kala Sangam
Established in the 1960s, the building designed by celebrated architect Joseph Stein offers space for painting, sculpture, photography and new media. This cultural melting point is a distinguished centre for Indian art. The name ‘Triveni Kala Sangam’ was coined by flautist Vijay Raghav Rao and literally means ‘confluence of arts’.
The Sculpture Court offers an open air space for large sculptures and draws attention of art buffs to the changing trends in the art of sculpting. If you are planning to visit the centre, keep your day relatively clear to fully experience the space that inhabits multiple art galleries including Triveni Gallery, Shridharani Gallery and Gallerie Nvya. Additionally the Art Pilgrim space brings together exciting exhibitions of emerging and established artists. The choicest selections display the vibrant Indian contemporary art scene.
If interested, you can also find classes for art, Indian classical dance and Indian classical music. Lastly, the Triveni Terrace Cafe offers some of the most delicious range of sandwiches to refresh you after a class or a visit to one of the galleries.
Image Courtesy: Gulbahaar
II. Bikaner House
A growing cultural hub, Bikaner House is spread over an 8-acre plot in Lutyens’, Delhi and serves as a space for folk, classical and contemporary music performances, while giving a platform to the art of storytelling with dance performances and theatre.
Bikaner House was part of the larger scheme, design and architectural plan of the Imperial Capital, executed by Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker. The building was restored beautifully by Abha Narain Lambah, a conservation architect and offers an art space that showcases the works of painters, sculptors and photographers.
Expanding in many directions, the cultural space situated in the heart of the country helps preview personal heirlooms ‘curated’ by the collectors themselves; showcase installations by contemporary artists and exhibit graphic traditions as well as unveil classical works.
Bikaner House conducts thirteen exhibitions spread over twelve months. They host multiple book launch events and have a design shop, VAYU that shares the best of Rajasthani craftsmanship sourced carefully from the artisans. After a day of exploring the Bikaner House you can indulge in some of the best Indian cuisine at their private cafe and further add value to your experience.
III. Gujral Foundation
Situated in Jor Bagh, the Gujral Foundation nurtures the contemporary arts and culture ecosystem in India. The foundation was set up in 2008, by Mohit and Feroze Gujral (the son and daughter-in-law of the renowned Indian Modern artist Satish Gujral) and offers the most eclectic art spectacle.
Over the past 12 years, the non-profit trust has nurtured talent in the realms of art, architecture, culture and design in the Indian subcontinent and beyond. Since its inception, the foundation has supported 150+ artists and presented 50+ exhibitions and has been recognized as one of India’s leading art foundations. A whole new experience awaits you, every time you visit the centre, which provides a diverse range of artistic expression from around the country.
Adding to the vibrant experience, they offer multiple workshops delving into the art of filmmaking, writing and curating museum spaces.
These cultural celebration hubs will introduce you to a whole new world of influences and movements from Indian art and provide explorations that are sure to stay with you; acting as an inspiration to even further dissect the heritage and culture of India.
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