In a captivating display of creativity and talent, the Lalit Kala Akademi in Chennai is currently hosting “Manifestoes in the Open Air,” an exhibition that showcases the rich diversity and innovative spirit of contemporary Indian art. The exhibit, organized by Ashvita’s in collaboration with Delhi-based gallery Nature Morte, brings together an eclectic mix of works by five promising Indian artists: Basist Kumar, Benitha Perciyal, Nidhi Agarwal, Parul Gupta, and Neeraj Patel. Each artist presents a distinct voice and a unique perspective on the evolving landscape of Indian contemporary art.
The highlight of the exhibition is undoubtedly the photorealist canvases of Basist Kumar. His works go beyond the conventional boundaries of photography, bringing a surreal quality to the human figures depicted on his canvases. By employing a palette of soothing blues and browns and capturing familiar landscapes with remarkable precision, Kumar creates artworks that invite viewers into a world marked by clarity and introspection. His mastery over the medium allows his art to transcend photographs, offering viewers an experience that is both familiar and otherworldly.
Peter Nagy, the American artist and curator from Nature Morte, elaborates on the exhibition’s concept: “We are presenting five individual artists with five distinct voices,” he explains. Unlike traditional thematic exhibits, “Manifestoes in the Open Air” is an exploration of the individual journeys and artistic commitments each artist has made. “They are all dedicated to their chosen medium and imagery, which allows their content to evolve naturally,” he adds. This approach results in a collection that highlights the personal visions and diverse artistic philosophies of its participants.
Benitha Perciyal, one of the featured artists, offers a deeply spiritual approach to sculpture. Known for her use of perishable and organic materials, her works reflect a fascination with ideas of transcendence and impermanence. The exhibition includes pieces from her extensive ten-year portfolio, some of which have been previously displayed at prestigious events such as the Kochi-Muziris Biennale and the India Art Fair. One notable piece, a reclining Christ figure with no arms, is a poignant representation of decay and transformation.
. Benitha explains, “I found inspiration in a similar figure during my first biennale visit, and so I crafted my version with materials that would self-destruct over time, letting the medium determine its own fate.”
A stark contrast to Basist’s meticulous realism, Nidhi Agarwal’s work bursts with expressionist fervor. Her canvases, which are filled with vibrant colors and dynamic brushstrokes, echo a commanding sense of chaos and spontaneity. Her artistic process involves the use of found fabrics to create textured tapestries that demand attention and contemplation. “Her approach is consistent and powerful,” remarks Nagy, underscoring Nidhi’s skill in managing both fabric and paint to produce intensely emotive pieces.
Parul Gupta’s art stands apart with its commitment to minimalism and precision. Her line drawings, characterized by their subtlety and fluidity, create an illusion of motion and vibrancy, even as they appear to be on the brink of vanishing from the canvas. This delicate balance between presence and absence gives her work a distinctive, almost ethereal quality.
In another innovative exploration, Neeraj Patel’s abstract works draw heavily from digital media and computer languages. His canvases, with their complexity and detail, mimic the systems and codes that underpin digital landscapes. Neeraj’s “Industrial Landscapes” series delves into themes of decay and renewal, inspired by the industrial architecture around Baroda.
The show “Manifestoes in the Open Air” offers a vibrant mosaic of contemporary Indian art, urging viewers to reflect on the distinct voices of its artists. Peter Nagy sees this as the core appeal of the exhibit: “I want to witness artists who are confident in their language and committed to its exploration.” The exhibition is a testament to the thriving and dynamic nature of the Indian art scene and will continue to be on display at the Lalit Kala Akademi, Egmore until November 17.
