Pulp Society's Paper & Play Exhibition Is Proof That Physical Art Is Far From Dead

Pulp Society is a dynamic contemporary art space that was born as an offshoot of the rich legacy of Sona Fine Papers. With a deep-rooted history of introducing innovative paper products to the Indian subcontinent and Middle East, Sona's practice found a new expression in Pulp Society. As a dedicated gallery and workshop, it grew into a community centered around printmaking and experimental paper-based art. Through a comprehensive program of residencies, exhibitions, and educational initiatives, Pulp Society invites artists, designers, and thinkers to explore the boundless potential of paper. The gallery serves as a platform for showcasing groundbreaking work, while the workshop provides a creative laboratory for experimentation and skill development.

One of Pulp Society's signature events is ‘Paper and Play’, is an exhibition that invites us into a world of games, zines, toys, and art books while showcasing the versatility of paper as a medium. The 2024 edition features a diverse range of artists and projects that delve into the personal, the political, and everything in between.

Gender, Identity & Introspection

Indu Antony's ‘Mazhi Books’ is a bold statement of feminist empowerment. By championing self-publishing for women, Antony creates a platform for underrepresented voices to be heard. Her work, including the provocative drag king photoseries ‘Manifest’, challenges gender norms and explores the complexities of identity. Srinivas Kuruganti's ‘Pictures in My Hand of a Boy I Still Resemble’ is a nostalgic exploration of identity and belonging. By delving into his early years in America, Srinivas challenges stereotypes of the South Asian diaspora. His work offers a nuanced and personal perspective, with the universal themes of friendship, love, and the complexities of identity formation. Prakash Ranjit's ‘365 Not Just a Number’ chronicles his healing journey through daily practice. With a year-long project of postcard-sized creations, Ranjit offers intimate glimpses into his thoughts and observations through sketches of fantasy creatures, transforming a personal journey into a shared experience. His work invites viewers to contemplate the potential of everyday moments and the transformative nature of consistency in art. 

Resistance & Resilience

Inder Salim's ‘Postcards to Gaza’ explores conflict through human stories. By drawing parallels between Kashmir and Gaza, Salim highlights the shared experiences of oppression and the enduring spirit of those caught in the crossfire. His work transforms complex geopolitical issues into emotionally resonant narratives, inviting both empathy and understanding. Ishan Tankha's ‘Still, Life’ offers a stark and intimate portrayal of life during the pandemic. Through his lens, ordinary objects and encounters become symbols of a shared collective experience. Tankha's work invites viewers to reflect on the impact of the pandemic on individuals and communities, capturing the fragility and resilience of the human spirit. Prarthna Singh's ‘Har Shaam Shaheen Bagh’ is a powerful tribute to the women who participated in the Shaheen Bagh protests. Through her images, Singh captures the spirit of resistance, solidarity, and hope that permeated the movement. Her work serves as a reminder of the transformative power of collective action and the importance of preserving historical narratives.

Paper and Play is an immersive experience that highlights how paper is still very much a part of the artistic ecosystem. Even the name of the exhibition alludes to an anti-capitalistic view of art that focuses less on its commodification and more on the ‘playful’ element of it; throwing it back to the days when we made greeting cards for our parents; where the question of how “good” the doodling was didn’t exist. The exhibition is a culmination of the digital exhaustion we’re experiencing as we return to the crafts of cyanotype, zine-making, collage art and printmaking, and is living proof that print will never be dead. 

Print and Play is an ongoing exhibition that is happening at the Pulp Society Gallery in Delhi till September 14. 

Follow Pulp Society here.

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