At the heart of Chennai, the Lalit Kala Akademi is currently abuzz with the vibrant display of contemporary Indian art, capturing the attention of art enthusiasts and novices alike. The exhibition, “Manifestoes in the Air,” orchestrated by Ashvita’s and the Delhi-based gallery Nature Morte, assembles a dynamic selection of artworks from five promising young Indian artists: Basist Kumar, Benitha Perciyal, Nidhi Agarwal, Parul Gupta, and Neeraj Patel. Each artist brings a unique voice to the canvas, weaving together narratives that redefine the modern art scene in India while displaying their diverse expressions to a broader audience.
Basist Kumar, known for his photorealist canvases, stands as a testament to the endless possibilities of art merging reality and perception. His works, meticulously detailed, extend beyond the conventional limits of photography. Through large expanses of serene landscapes in hues of blue and brown and deeply intricate figurative forms, Basist’s skill captivates and challenges the viewer’s perception, infusing his human figures with an ethereal quality that leaves a lasting impression.
In stark contrast, Nidhi Agarwal’s canvases explode with expressive energy. Described by Peter Nagy of Nature Morte as a straight-out expressionist, Nidhi’s art radiates vivid chaos. Her use of found fabrics and vibrant colors results in abstract compositions that demand repeated engagement from their audience. Through aggressive brushstrokes, her art occasionally struggles to contain its own charged energy, exemplifying a raw, visceral approach to creating figures.
Meanwhile, Benitha Perciyal delves deep into the exploration of faith and transcendence through her sculptural works. Her collection, which has graced numerous biennales and art fairs, reflects a dedication to organic and perishable materials. One of her noted pieces, a reclining Christ without arms, was inspired by an encounter at the Kochi-Muziris Biennale, where a similar figure moved her to recreate it using materials destined to decay. Her ongoing project, the carved book series titled “Xenophora,” continues to evolve, signifying a library still in creation.
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On a minimalist path, Parul Gupta’s commitment to precise line drawings sets her work apart. Her canvases vibrate with subtle intensity, creating an illusionary effect of motion that engages the viewer. The lines, occasionally appearing as though they might vanish, bring forth a nuanced and distinctive visual language that makes her work stand out.
Neeraj Patel’s abstract art, deeply influenced by digital media and computer languages, showcases a starkly different aesthetic. His works, resembling intricate coding, highlight the imperfections and breakdowns within systemic structures, drawing inspiration from the decaying industrial landscapes around Baroda. Neeraj’s approach invites reflection on the intersection of technology and art, where these elements collide and reinterpret traditional notions of art.
Curator Peter Nagy’s enthusiasm for this exhibition stems from his appreciation of artists who exhibit a strong sense of self-awareness in their work. For Nagy, the allure lies in each artist’s commitment to their chosen medium and the consistent pursuit of a unique artistic language. “I want to see an artist being sure of themselves, and finding a language and sticking with the language,” he articulates with conviction.
The diversity within “Manifestoes in the Air” is not just a celebration of individual talent but a reflection of the broader tapestry that is contemporary Indian art. As visitors wander through the Lalit Kala Akademi, they encounter a stimulating array of styles and narratives, each resonating with the zeitgeist of today’s art scene. “Manifestoes in the Air” remains on display at the gallery in Egmore, offering an enriching insight into the burgeoning landscape of Indian creativity and innovation until November 17. As the exhibition unfolds, it promises to leave an indelible mark on the art-loving community while offering a window into the ever-evolving world of Indian artistry.
