"Interconnection" is a captivating reflection of the intricate bonds that unite us with the world around us. Drawing inspiration from the woven patterns of bamboo bags, this artwork embodies the interconnectedness of humanity and nature, weaving together strands of tradition, culture, and heritage. As light dances across the surface of the paper, shadows cast by the woven patterns evoke a sense of depth and dimensionality, The interconnectedness of all things. "Interconnection" is more than just a work of art—it is a celebration of the rich tapestry of life, where every thread is woven into the fabric of existence
Know MoreIn "Khaggantu," the paper becomes a playground of paradoxes, where lines blur between the tangible and the intangible, the known and the unknowable. At the center of the piece, a swirling vortex of colors and shapes represents the infinite complexities of existence, drawing viewers into a mesmerizing dance of uncertainty. Words dissolve into abstract forms, challenging viewers to grapple with the limits of language and reason in the face of the ineffable. Through layers of translucent color and delicate lines, "Eternal Enigma" captures the elusive essence of unsolvable paradoxes, inviting viewers to embrace the beauty of uncertainty and the boundless potential of the unknown.
Know MoreAntargata (Container)" explores the symbolism of gunny bags through meditative watercolor on paper. This artwork reflects on mass production and the ensuing chaos in food systems. It invites contemplation on the consequences of industrialization and containment in modern agriculture.
Know More"Hybrid" confronts the loss of indigenous seeds in the face of the dominance of commercially-driven hybrid varieties. Through repetitive seed drawings on a grand scale, the artwork highlights the gradual disappearance of traditional crops and the encroachment of hybrid seeds into our agricultural landscape. As indigenous seeds are marginalized, their unique traits and genetic diversity are compromised in favor of uniformity and profit. This shift not only erodes the cultural heritage tied to these seeds but also threatens the resilience and sustainability of our food systems.
Know More"Their Last Supper" captures the poignant tradition observed in the farming communities of the Mysore region. The tradition of the family to prepare the favorite meal of the deceased signifies final offering which is then solemnly presented at the graveyard, symbolizing the last nourishment received after departing from this world. This deeply reflects the reverence and love that endures beyond death and hunger. In this artwork, I aim to honor this profound connection between food, memory, and remembrance in the cycle of life and death within these farming communities.
Know More"Everlasting River" invoke the questions about the journey of food from farm to table. This mesmerizing flow from villages to bustling cities, the artwork prompts viewers to ponder the intricate mechanisms behind this essential exchange. Each stroke of watercolor on handmade paper serves as a visual inquiry into the origins of sustenance and the pathways it traverses. As the food flows ceaselessly from village to city, creating an "Everlasting River" that challenges us to contemplate the interconnectedness of communities and the profound implications of this perpetual movement of food.
Know MoreEmbarking on a journey from ignorance to enlightenment, we witness the profound disparity between knowledge and ignorance. Within the tapestry of local farming culture, certain bull breeds, devoid of commercial worth, roam freely, embodying a forgotten essence of freedom and resilience. The Bullman series emerges as a poignant exploration of one individual's quest for identity and belonging within society's complex setup. Through the tactile warmth of brown paper and the stark depth of black ink, memories intertwine with artistic expression, invoking a timeless narrative of introspection and transformation.
Know More"Kanaja" encapsulates the transition from traditional grain storage methods to modern industrial practices. Once, grain was lovingly stored underground in large terracotta urns, fostering an intimate connection between farmers and their harvest. Today, the shift to jute gunny sacks signifies a departure from this intimacy, as the act of storage becomes mechanized and impersonal.
This evolution is inevitable, yet it distances us from the essence of the grain. No longer do we engage intimately with the bounty of our harvest; instead, storage becomes a mechanical process, devoid of the human touch. Through Kanaja, I invite viewers to reflect on the loss of this intimate connection with our agricultural heritage and the implications of mechanization on our relationship with the land and its bounty.
"Golden Seed" delves into the profound significance of gold within the context of farming families. Inspired by the intrinsic value of this precious metal, the artwork explores its pivotal role in providing a financial afloat for agricultural households.
At the heart of the narrative lies the story of my own family, where the golden adornments of my mother symbolize not just wealth, but also resilience and determination. The gold passed down through generations, becomes more than mere accessories; they are securities for the future, tokens of hope for bountiful harvests. Through "Golden Seed," we contemplate the complex interplay between tradition, wealth, and sustenance in the lives of farming communities, where even the smallest golden seed holds the promise of secure tomorrow and progress.
Once a revered tool in the kitchen, the traditional pestle held deep significance and pride of place in household corners, steeped in cultural relevance. Women, in joyful camaraderie, would sing and pound grains and spices , using this simple yet indispensable tool in preparation for festivals and events. Today, however, the pestle is relegated to mere antiquity, its once vital role reduced to a nostalgic memory of bygone days.
Know MoreAtantraru 1 (Being on Threshold) The sickle hanging on the wall symbolizes the challenges and hardships faced by farmers in their daily lives. It serves as a reminder of the physical labor and dedication required to cultivate the land. The sickle not only represents the toil of farming but also serves as a metaphor for the resilience and determination of farmers who persevere despite adversities.
Through 'Atantraru 1,' viewers are invited to contemplate the fragility of existence for the working class, whose struggles and sacrifices often go unnoticed, yet whose resilience remains unyielding.
Atantraru 2 (Being on Threshold) The red towel, or 'gamucha,' serves as a poignant symbol, imbued with the sweat and tears of those who toil tirelessly for survival. Suspended in mid-air, the towel casts shadows upon the crimson surface, metaphorically representing the marginalized status of these individuals in society. Like fleeting shadows, they are overlooked and undervalued, their lives marked by neglect and the inevitability of their own mortality. "Atantraru 2 " captures the essence of hard work and sacrifice, celebrating the resilience of the labors of the field.
This installation embodies a traditional approach to crop propagation, revealing the decline of rice varieties post the 'Green Revolution', where most varieties vanished due to mono-cropping. Pesticides and genetically modified seeds further disrupted natural soil, leading to profit-driven farming practices that abandoned tradition. With a legacy passed down by my grandfathers teachings, I have integrated this knowledge into my art, seeking to preserve and revive these practices by connecting with farmers dedicated to reclaiming our agricultural heritage.
Know MoreIn 'Inherited Burdens,' tradition and modernity intertwine, capturing the struggles of contemporary farmers. This installation embodies the weight of inherited customs amid modern farming realities. As villages embrace modernization, age-old practices like yoke farming fade into obscurity. Yet, for families like mine, constrained by limited resources, modern machinery remains a distant dream. The forgotten yoke, once a revered tradition, now symbolizes the tug-of-war between past and progress. This conflict is mirrored in the artwork's juxtaposition of traditional and modern imagery. Through 'Inherited Burdens,' viewers are urged to ponder the complexities of tradition in a swiftly changing world, where the past and future collide in uncertain harmony.
Know More"Bhathada Kanaja" is an immersive installation showcasing the significance of rice cultivation. Using paddy grown by the artist, it prompts contemplation on our connection to nature. The textured terrarium enhances the sensory experience, sparking conversations about sustainability and tradition. This unexpected fusion of rural agriculture in an urban gallery setting inspires appreciation for the humble grain that sustains billions worldwide.
Know MoreIntricately blends the art of knitting and depicts a farmer's journey through life. Adorned with delicate crochet work, a sickle symbolizes the nurturing essence of farming. Seven elements embedded within the knit represent the farmer's growth from humble beginnings to seasoned expertise. Through this fusion of tradition and technology, the artwork prompts reflection on the cyclical nature of life and labor in rural communities.
Know MoreIn my father's hands, 'Whip' was a gentle yet commanding gesture, guiding animals without force. While the chawti's practical use has waned, it remains a treasured relic for farming families, adorned with intricate designs as a sacred ritual. To honor this fading tradition, I decorated a chawti in traditional fashion and symbolize our shared heritage and the timeless bond between past and present, breathing new life into a lost tradition.
Know More"Entwining" is a tribute to the resilience and strength of female farmers, symbolized by the intricately woven saree, representing their silent contributions to agriculture and family life. Inspired by the memories of my childhood, when I noticed my mother's seamless work from my earliest awareness, the use of my mother’s, sister’s, and grandmother's saree in this piece pays homage to their unwavering dedication and the generations of women who have shaped our world with their silent strength.
Know MoreThis stone sculpture blends traditional motifs with modern environmental themes, symbolizing cultural heritage amidst urbanization. Inspired by tradition and contemporary concerns, it reflects on the impact of urban expansion while celebrating and enduring the significance of stone sculpture. "Leftover" prompts reflection on the intersection of tradition, culture, and environmental stewardship, urging us to consider their role in preserving the planet.
Know MoreExploring Gender Paradigms Through Art: The 'Bullman' Series
In the proposed 'Bullman' series, the artist delves into the intricate dynamics of gender paradigms using wood inlay as the medium. Through the playful interplay of color and texture, the artworks depict the societal expectations and roles assigned based on gender identity.
The central figure of the bull symbolizes resilience and the acceptance of life's challenges, echoing the silent endurance often associated with traditional gender roles. By amalgamating different wood types, the artist highlights the diversity of human experiences while advocating for inclusivity and equity. The series serves as a poignant reminder of the evolving nature of societal attitudes towards gender, we can see in art workshows reflect on and challenge ingrained stereotypes.
"symbiotic" is a captivating photography documentary that showcases the resilience and adaptability of Mysore's inhabitants amidst the changing urban landscape. Through striking images of disappearing streets and heritage homes, the documentary captures the essence of cultural evolution and the importance of preserving historical landmarks. Each photograph serves as a poignant reminder of the rich heritage embedded within Mysore's streets, prompting viewers to reflect on the significance of safeguarding these treasures for future generations.
Know More"Fields of Life: A Photographic Journey Through Paddy Cultivation"
"Fields of Life" is a captivating photographic documentary that chronicles the seasons of paddy cultivation, from tilling to harvest. Through striking images, the documentary portrays the dedication and craftsmanship of farmers as they nurture rice plants from seedlings to maturity. Each photograph serves as a tribute to the timeless rhythms of rural life and the essential role of agriculture in sustaining communities.
"Proof: The Hands That Sow Life"
"Proof" is a captivating photographic series that zooms in on the hands of farmers, revealing the cracks and calluses earned through years of hard work in the fields. These weathered hands tell a story of resilience, dedication, and the unyielding spirit of those who toil the land. Each photograph in "Proof" serves as a powerful reminder of the invaluable role farmers play in sustaining our communities and nourishing our world.
"Try to See" is a profound performing art piece where the artist blindfolds themselves for four hours in their college environment, prompting participants to explore perception beyond sight. Through sensory deprivation, participants delve into an immersive experience, relying on touch, sound, and smell to navigate their surroundings. This shift in perspective challenges conventional notions of perception and invites introspection, encouraging participants to question their reliance on visual cues and embrace alternative ways of experiencing reality. Ultimately, "Try to See" fosters a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of human senses and the richness of human experience.
Know More"Try to See 2: A Journey Through Mysore's Public Spaces"
"Try to See 2" takes on profound significance as the artist navigates blindfolded from Mysore Palace to the bustling market. Encountering physical and societal barriers along the way, the journey prompts reflection on inclusivity and accessibility in public spaces. Through this immersive experience, participants gain empathy and understanding, igniting conversations about perception, disability, and societal responsibility.
"Royal Ride: Bridging lore and Urbanization"
"Royal Ride" is a captivating performing art piece that uses a bullock cart to symbolize the disappearing rural lifestyle amidst urbanization. Inspired by the artist's personal experience of witnessing farmland give way to cityscape, the performance prompts reflection on the consequences of progress. Through the juxtaposition of tradition and modernity, "Royal Ride" invites audiences to contemplate the importance of preserving cultural heritage in the face of rapid change
"Outsider: Between Furrows and Canvases"
"Outsider" is a thought-provoking performance art piece that delves into the artist's dual identity as both a farmer and a painter. Amidst the tranquil beauty of the paddy fields, the artist grapples with feelings of detachment and alienation, longing to pursue their passion for painting while fulfilling their duties to the land. As they navigate the contrast between rural tradition and artistic expression, "Outsider" offers a poignant exploration of the complexities of identity and belonging.