Aurangabad-based artist Sarang Hundiwala presents a captivating blend of history, spirituality, and artistry in his intricately decorative works. Drawing from a rich array of influences ranging from Indian Miniature art traditions, doodling Zen tangles to Buddhist art influences, mythological frescoes, and traditional Indian sculpture—Sarang's creations reflect the essence of a realm steeped in cultural heritage and artistic inspiration.
Recent work by Artist Sarang Hundiwala
His upcoming solo exhibition, ‘Triparna: The Trinity of Art,’ at the Nehru Centre, Mumbai, exemplifies this unique synergy, offering a visual journey that seamlessly fuses these diverse traditions and popular cultural practices. Each painting invites the viewer into a world of personal religious and spiritual exploration, where Sarang deftly balances the intricate with the ethereal. Central to this collection are his works, which are based on Buddhist sculptures from around the world, starting from the historic Ajanta and Ellora cave art, as well as works from other regions where Buddhism has profoundly shaped culture, religion and philosophy.
Sarang's works are a meditation on peace, unity, and harmony, embodying the interconnectedness of all life forms—a reflection of the Buddhist principles that anchor his practice. The precision of his penmanship and the subtlety of his brushstrokes create a mesmerising interplay of depth and lightness, leaving viewers enchanted by the richness of his textured surfaces and the inherent depth in their corresponding messages.
Artist: Sarang Hundiwala
With numerous exhibitions to his name, artist Sarang Hundiwala’s art has earned a place in esteemed collections both in India and internationally. His solo show is not just an exhibition; it’s an invitation to experience the timeless spiritual and artistic traditions that continue to inform his evolving visual lexicon and inspire the world around him.
After the outstanding success of the milestone 100th auction and ‘The Exceptionals’ Jewellery, Silver and Timepieces auction, AstaGuru is set to host two consecutive auctions dedicated to Modern & Contemporary Indian art. The Modern Indian Art Auction titled ‘Stroke & Structure’ is scheduled to be held on June 20-21, 2024 and will showcase a wide collection of works belonging to the oeuvre of important modernist figures. The contemporary art auction titled ‘Visionaries’ will be held on June 23-24, 2024 will offer works by leading contemporary artists.
Talking about the auction, Sunny Chandiramani, Senior VP – Client Relations of AstaGuru says:
“We are thrilled to curate these two back-to-back auctions, which provide a comprehensive perspective on the evolution of Indian art from the 20th to the 21st century. The ‘Stroke & Structure’ catalogue highlights the seminal works of modernist pioneers like Jamini Roy and Amrita Sher-Gil, along with the ground breaking Progressive Artists’ Group and other important figures who shaped the narrative of modern Indian art. On the other hand, the ‘Visionaries’ auction will showcase the vibrant dynamism of contemporary Indian art. Featuring works by trailblazers like Anish Kapoor, this auction celebrates the innovative spirit of the new generation, who continually push artistic boundaries. Together, these auctions offer seasoned and emerging collectors alike a chance to enrich their collections with pivotal works that span decades of artistic excellence.”
Highlights from ‘Stroke & Structure’ Modern Indian Art Auction:
Lot no. 4 is a rare sketch from the early years of legendary Amrita- Shergil who remains to be one of the most famous and loved personalities of Modern Indian art. This work is offered with an estimate of INR 10,00,000 – 15,00,000.
An extremely important work by artist M F Husain, lot no. 81, is being showcased in the auction.
Women inspired M F Husain to create some of his most iconic, as well as emotionally charged paintings. In the presented lot, executed in 1965, one can observe four women, rooted in a sense of universality, deeply engaged, and communicating, not through words or a spoken dialect but through quiet gestures. This work is offered with an estimate of INR 2,50,00,000 – 3,50,00,000.
M F Husain
Another creation by Husain, lot no. 12 showcases his deep devotion to the theme of Indian mythology in his oeuvre. Executed with acrylic on a wood board, the work showcases the important Ramayana scene of lord Hanuman carrying the Sanjeevani mountain. Executed sometime during the 1980s, it is offered with an estimate of INR 30,00,000 – 40,00,000.
Both the works are also published in the seminal book on artist ‘The Eternal Master – Selected Works 1941-2011’ by The Arts Trust.
Lot no. 20 is a sculptural rendition to Krishen Khanna’s famous ‘Bandwallah’ series which brings to life the vibrant spirit of Indian street musicians. A brilliant example of the artist’s multifaceted approach to capturing these musicians who are quintessential to the wedding culture in India, this bronze sculpture is offered with an estimate of INR 20,00,000 – 30,00,000.
Lot no. 35 is a work titled ‘Dancers’ by artist Sakti Burman. Burman’s paintings often have a surrealist quality, drawing on a rich tapestry of Hindu and European mythology as well as his own memories. This work is estimated to sell at INR 20,00,000 – 30,00,000.
Jogen Chowdhury
Lot no. 75 is an important creation by artist Jogen Chowdhury titled ‘See My Wounds.’ The work is a brilliant example of Chowdhury’s recurrent theme of gruesome wounds and mangled limbs.
Disturbing yet riveting, these images are powerful visual narratives that lastingly sear the imagination of the viewer. Executed in 2018 with ink, pastel, and pen, it is offered with an estimated INR 65,00,000 – 80,00,000.
Lot no. 101 is a large-scale creation by artist Manu Parekh who has consistently revisited the holy city of Benares. Depicting a sunset scene, the majestic creation spans around 17 feet. It is offered with an estimate of INR 40,00,000 – 60,00,000.
Lot no. 107 is a beautiful creation from the early career of artist Krishen Khanna during which he was inspired by calligraphy and how it conveyed meaning and emotion through the brushstrokes and the interplay of light and dark. Executed in 1965, it is offered with an estimate of INR 30,00,000 – 40,00,000.
Adorning the catalogue cover is a beautiful work by Goan artist Lancelot Riberio. Painted in 1965, the vibrant townscape was inspired by a miniature he had painted earlier and which now houses in a UK museum. This work is offered with an estimate of INR 12,50,000 – 15,50,000.
Lot no. 163 is a brilliant example of Ram Kumar’s abstract landscapes and is offered with an estimate of INR 80,00,000 – 1,20,00,000.
Lot no. 190 is a work by one of the most important women Indian artists B Prabha. The large scale canvas spanning across eight feet showcases a fisherwoman, a theme very close to the artist. This work is offered with an estimate of INR 40,00,000 – 60,00,000. Lot no. 155 is a work by artist Anjolie Ela Menon and will be offered with an estimate of INR 50,00,000 – 70,00,000.
The auction will also present works by several other women artists, including Shobha Broota, Gogi Saroj Pal, Arpana Caur, Bharti Prajapati, Jayasri Burman, and Naina Dalal.
Lot no. 208 is among several creations by T Vaikuntam offered in the upcoming auction. Executed with acrylic on canvas, it will be offered with an estimate of INR 50,00,000 – 70,00,000.
Highlights from ‘Visionaries’ Contemporary Indian Art Auction:
Leading the auction is Bharti Kher’s untitled work, Lot no. 116, which was executed in 2012 in her signature medium bindis, on painted board. Renowned for her use of the ‘bindi’ in her paintings and sculptures, Kher first started using them in 1995, after which it became a leitmotif through which she speaks to the world. Traditionally a symbol of femininity, strength and spirituality, the
bindi has undergone a subliminal transformation through her art. The lot is estimated at INR 80,00,000 – 1,20,00,000.
Lot no. 110, ‘Mountain’ by Anish Kapoor is an impressive sculpture by the British-Indian artist executed using acrylic on fibreboard in 1996. This work is an extraordinary display of Kapoor’s artistic skills and his interest in playing with dimension and perspective. The sculpture features layers of ridges, meticulously put together to create an undulating mountain. This lot is estimated to be sold at INR 60,00,000 – 80,00,000.
T V Santosh
‘For A Life Lost Between Bullets And Bombs (Diptych)’ by T V Santhosh, lot no. 16, is a large-scale oil on canvas executed in 2010. Keeping to his signature style, this lot too incorporates elements of photorealism, injected with a hint of lightning, evoking the moment of capturing the image rather than presenting the finished photograph. The lot is estimated at a value of INR 25,00,000 – 30,00,000.
Estimated at a value of INR 30,00,000 – 40,00,000, lot no. 23 is an oil on canvas work by eminent contemporary artist Nataraj Sharma titled ‘The Stage’. Executed in 2023, the work comes from the artist’s vast oeuvre of works canvases imbued with both wit and introspection which are simultaneously dramatic, contemplative, serene, and defiant.
Lot 67 – Valay Shende – Boy with Balloons
Lot no. 67 is a remarkable work by Valay Shende titled ‘Boy With Balloons’. Executed in his signature medium of stainless steel discs in 2018, the sculpture represents the artist’s penchant for circular discs as his preferred medium, inspired by his interest in nature and science. He aims to symbolise that all creatures and people are created from the amalgamation of atoms and molecules. This lot is estimated to be sold at INR 20,00,000 – 30,00,000.
About AstaGuru
AstaGuru Auction House was conceptualised in the year 2008 with the sole purpose of creating a safe and secure platform to conduct online auctions for Contemporary & Modern Indian Art. Over the years, AstaGuru has curated auctions encompassing diverse categories, our portfolio includes art, jewellery, fine silver, timepieces, textiles, celebrity memorabilia, rare books, numismatic, philately and vintage cars. In 2018, AstaGuru became the first Indian auction house to present an exclusive edition for vintage and classic cars. “AstaGuru has strived to successfully bridge the gap between prospective buyers and consignors by transcending the limitations of live auctions. AstaGuru imparts effortless transparency to the process of acquiring and selling art and rare collectibles. The online module offers bidders the opportunity to bid from the comfort of their houses or while they are on the go.
Rooted in an agricultural background, Maredu's imagery is a lexicon that is compelling in the works on display. Each composition has a message for the observer, be it through the hoardings or in the markings of a burgeoning metro. He is inspired by the growth in the city of Hyderabad, which is his domicile.
Artist: Maredu Ramu
His interest in architecture and the planned layout started on being inspired by the layout of the ancient city of Mohenjo-daro. The fact that there has been centuries of evolution in terms of materials use to build cities. Each city has a history and he experiences pride that his city of Hyderabad is "solid" in terms of not experiencing natural calamities and that there has been unprecedented growth.
Water bodies and birds form part of the linear compositions as the organic elements are part of his childhood and the village life that is deeply embedded in his imagination. Life in the city since adolescence has left an impact as one sees film hoardings of actors or of politicians who have left a mark in their field of work or who have brought about remarkable changes to society. His paintings have created a visual language with dense and opaque forms with multiple references. There is a child-like approach to his renditions that have thick brush strokes to emphasize certain symbolisms in his compositions. Unfinished works in the city that have created an impact in his life, are symbolic of the infinite growth that is the identity of an Indian city! Maredu Ramu has created a landscape for the observer to imagine and create their own journey.
From: 26th March to 1st April 2024
“A WALK THROUGH THE CITY – 2”
Solo show of Paintings by well-known artist Maredu Ramu
Paper as a
medium has been used in art for centuries. Innumerable artists have used paper
as an inspiration to create stunning artworks. It's not just limited to
traditional paintings and drawings but also used in other art forms, such as origami,
sculptures and collages. Incidentally some artists create their own
paper, which can be quite a meticulous process resulting in an exceptionally
delicate and beautiful medium to work on.
Paper
incredibly is the most versatile and a primary medium for any artist. Although,
the ‘handle with care’ reminder always resonates with these artworks,
nevertheless it has its own effective being.
Dhoomimal
Gallery & Nexus Art initiated the “Lines of Insight” show which
interestingly captures the flow of lines in drawings, lithographs, etchings,
woodcuts etc. on paper. For potential art connoisseurs & lovers, giving
emphasis to top quality artworks from the well-known moderns and contemporary
artists on ‘paper’ can significantly give an evaluation and competitive
pricing compared to the artworks on canvases. This becomes an encouraging
aspect for the potential buyers to build their collection. The following
exhibiting artists denote their exemplary styles:-
Almelkar, A.
P. Santhanaraj, A. Ramachandran, Aalap Shah, Ambadas Khobragade, Amit Ambalal,
Arpana Caur, Bhupen Khakhar, Bimal Das Gupta, Dhruva Mistry, Dushyant Patel, F.
N. Souza, G. R. Santosh, Ganesh Haloi, Ganesh Pyne, Gogi Saroj Pal, Gulam
Mohammed Sheikh, Haren Das, Jagannath Panda, Jamini Roy, Jatin Das, Jeram
Patel, Jogen Chowdhury, Jyoti Bhatt, K. G. Subramanyam, K. Laxma Goud, Krishen
Khanna, Lalu Prasad Shaw, M. F. Husain, Manjit Bawa, N. S. Bendre, Nilima
Sheikh, P. D Dhumal, Piraji Sagara, Rabin Mondal, Reba Hore, Rini Dhumal,
Sailoz Mookherkjee, Sakti Burman, Satadru Sovan, Shibu Natesan, Shyamal Dutta
Ray, Somnath Hore, Sunil Das, T. V. Santosh, T. Vaikuntam, Vivan Sundaram, and
Vrindavan Solanki. (in alphabetical order).
The objective
behind presenting this paperwork collection is to share with the audiences the
talent and dedication with which each artist visualises his or her perception,
the right choice of implements that make each of these artworks come to life.
Pencils, markers, coal, paints and others hold connotations, while using the
correct type of paper is of equal importance for the media to flow across the
page. Finer quality of paper helps the art stay seamless and stiff without any
tears. The choice of paper compliments the art that the artist is making –
painting flows better on a smooth surface while uneven textured paper is better
for sketches. Now it is for the audiences to make such observations and help
create awareness.
I leave you
with this wonderful show to identify your lines of artist interest in these
contemporary artworks. Grow more trees…….. did I hear that!
Uday Jain
Dhoomimal
Gallery
March 2024
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Curator's Note- "Lines of Insight"
The exhibition delves deep into the nuanced and
diverse expressions of artistic practices that harness the power of lines to
convey profound insights into the human experience. Within these lines, we
discover a remarkable blend of introspection and exploration, revealing the
artists' perspectives on the world and the inner workings of their creative
minds.
Drawing is often regarded as the most fundamental
artistic medium, as it offers a direct line from the artist's hand to the
viewer's perception. At its core, drawing is a language—a visual language that
transcends spoken and written words and communicates with immediacy. It is the
most primal of artistic endeavours, and is an act of creation that goes beyond
the mere physical representation of subjects. It serves as the bedrock upon
which countless artistic journeys have been built.
The title, "Lines of Insight,"
encapsulates the notion that lines are not just marks on paper or canvas; they
are pathways to understanding, self-discovery, and revelation. Each artist
featured in this exhibition employs the drawn line as a conduit for sharing
their unique insights into the world, the self, and the human experience. The
exhibition explores this elementary act of mark-making as a conduit for
profound exploration. Drawing, in its various forms, allows artists to
communicate their insights into a complex, multifaceted world through the
subtlety of lines, shades, and shapes.
The exhibition critically explores themes that
transcend the superficial act of representation and delve into the essence of
human existence. Furthermore, by bringing in artists from diverse pedagogical
schools of India, the exhibition offers the viewers a unique opportunity to
understand how artists draw inspiration from a wide range of sources, including
their personal experiences, societal observations, and even the spiritual and
metaphysical realms. It allows for a complete cross section of Indian Art from
across masters, senior practitioners, as well as young minds.
Through their works we encounter various facets of
Inner Journeys via chronicling personal thoughts and emotional scapes; Social
Commentary via shedding light on pressing issues, sparking dialogues and
challenging the viewer to reflect on the world around us; Nature’s Whispers via
offering viewers a fresh perspective on the environment and our place in it;
Metaphysical Explorations via exploring the realms
of spiritual, mystical and philosophical experiences.
These artistic practices offer a playground for
experimentation and challenge viewers to engage with form, color, and line in
new and unexpected ways. Using drawing as a vehicle for conveying abstract
concepts and ideas through symbolic imagery and thoughtful composition, they
invite viewers to contemplate the deeper meanings within their works. They
encourage viewers to embrace the power of observation. By following the process
of seeing, feeling, and translating these perceptions into lines and shapes
that resonate with meaning. Furthermore, the practices on display make use of
digital mediums to express their innovations within the larger art historical
understanding of drawing itself. In this manner the exhibition invites you to
observe not only the artwork but also your own responses, allowing the lines on
paper to awaken your own insights and emotions.
With this we invite you to "Lines of
Insight," where we celebrate drawing as a medium of deep reflection and
personal revelation. It is a journey into the minds and hearts of artists who
use lines to convey the invisible threads that connect us all. As you navigate
this exhibition, allow yourself to be drawn into the stories, emotions, and
insights embedded within each stroke and mark. From the ethereal to the
concrete, these works offer a glimpse into the inner workings of the artistic
mind where we find not only the visions of artists but also the reflections of
our shared humanity.
Sunny Chandiramani has been part of AstaGuru for over a decade, actively participating in more than 50 auctions. Her extensive experience goes beyond just understanding the significance of each artwork; she possesses a deep knowledge of market fundamentals and data, making her a seasoned professional in the field. Established in 2008, AstaGuru was founded with the mission of creating a secure and reliable platform for online auctions. The name “AstaGuru” is a deliberate fusion of the Italian term “Asta,” meaning auction, and a Sanskrit word signifying “master,” reflecting our exceptional expertise in auctioneering art and treasures in India.
AstaGuru has evolved, conducting curated auctions across various categories such as heirloom jewellery, silver, and timepieces over the years. Sunny reflects on her time at AstaGuru, expressing gratitude for the significant learning and growth opportunities. She emphasises the satisfaction derived from curating each auction catalogue, providing her with a deeper understanding of the artistic evolution of numerous renowned artists who have left a lasting impact on the modern Indian art scene.
1. What is it like to be a Woman Leader in an Auction House?
It’s a very proud feeling. However, what makes me happier is that women are playing important roles in almost every department at AstaGuru. Whether it is a forefront role such as client relations and auction curation or working behind the scenes in departments such as Restoration, Marketing or Content, women are integral to the overall functioning of AstaGuru. While I am of the view that success and achievements should not be analysed from the standpoint of gender, it makes me truly ecstatic that AstaGuru takes the spirit of gender equality very seriously and has been a staunch advocate of the same. Our CEO, Mr. Tushar Sethi, is to be credited for this as he has been a consistent source of inspiration and encouragement to each one of us through the years.
2. Could Sunny share her story of leading 50+ successful auctions and highlight key elements contributing to her success in this competitive environment?
Since joining AstaGuru in 2013, my experience has been incredibly rewarding as I delved into the intricate details of Modern Indian Art. Transitioning from a non-art background, my journey has involved a significant learning curve. Whether it’s recognising milestones achieved by revered Indian modernists or studying the overall evolution of Modern Indian Art, I’ve engaged in continuous exploration, research, and learning to cultivate a keen eye for the auction industry. Each auction has contributed to my growing confidence.
Artist: Amrita Sher-Gil
3. How does Sunny view the evolving roles of women in the Artworld from an industry perspective, and in what ways are they inspiring others?
The past few decades have played a crucial role in elevating the recognition of women in the art world. Women artists have left a lasting impact with grand retrospectives at esteemed institutions sparking a surge of interest in the artistic achievements of Indian women. Notable examples include Arpita Singh’s retrospective, ‘Six Decades of Painting,’ at the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art in New Delhi and Nalini Malani’s retrospective at the Centre Pompidou in Paris, both earning consistent critical acclaim. The art market has witnessed remarkable auction results for works by women artists, prompting the collector community to take notice and acknowledge their mastery. These triumphs signify a significant shift in the Indian art market, recognising and honouring women artists with the recognition they have long deserved.
Esteemed contemporary artists such as Anju Dodiya and Bharti Kher have also received praise for their distinctive works and practices, echoing the recognition seen in various aspects of the Indian art world. Whether in the roles of collectors, bidders, gallerists, art writers, or critics, women are shattering the glass ceiling on a global scale. The trend continues in the auction industry, where women actively contribute to various facets of auction house operations. Their involvement extends to outstanding curation and restoration work, as well as supporting departments like Logistics, Marketing, PR, and Content, showcasing the diverse and impactful roles women play in shaping the art landscape.
4. What are Sunny Chandiramani’s top 3 favourite Women Artists, and what qualities in these artists does she find inspiring?
My choice would be Amrita Sher-Gil, as she undeniably stands as one of the preeminent avant-garde women artists of the early 20th century, credited with single-handedly elevating Indian art onto the global stage. Even after eight decades since her untimely passing in 1941, she remains the focal point of numerous auctions and exhibitions showcasing Indian art. Another artist I deeply appreciate is Meera Mukherjee, celebrated for her distinctive creations. Her artistic journey featured innovative bronze casting techniques, and she played a pivotal role in refining traditional Dhokra style sculpture by incorporating lost-wax casting methods, acquired during her time among artisans in the Bastar region of central India. I’m also an avid admirer of Arpita Singh’s work. With a unique style and technique, each of her compositions narrates its own story. I particularly value her exploration and presentation of women’s lives, weaving a complex tapestry drawn from diverse sources, including personal experiences, mythology, fiction, and Bengali folklore.
Meera Mukherjee – Dancing Baul
5. Finally, what advice does Sunny have for the next generation of Women aiming to make an impact in the Artworld? How can they navigate challenges and build successful careers in this dynamic industry?
The Indian art scene thrives with a multitude of artists, each possessing a unique visual language. Engaging with various mediums, these artists continually explore, pushing the boundaries of traditional art definitions. My advice to all, including women artists, is to remain authentic in your artistic expression and maintain an open mindset towards continuous learning. The nuances of the art world are ever-evolving, making the journey of understanding a perpetual process.
AstaGuru
Head Office Hargovindas Building, 2nd Floor, K. Dubash Marg, Kala Ghoda, Fort, Mumbai – 400 001.
Gallery 22/26 ICIA Building, K. Dubash Marg, Kala Ghoda, Fort, Mumbai – 400 001.
India Art Fair, the leading
platform showcasing modern and contemporary art from India and South Asia,
opens its 15th edition today at the NSIC Exhibition Grounds in New Delhi with
an invitation-only VIP preview. Running from 1 to 4 February 2024 and led in
partnership with BMW India, India Art Fair 2024 features 109 exhibitors,
including 72 galleries and major regional and international art institutions.
The fair welcomes a total of 31 new exhibitors, including 7 new design studios
in its first ever collectible Design section. For its biggest edition yet,
India Art Fair continues in its mission to showcase the best of modern and
contemporary South Asian art alongside major contemporary international artists
whilst adding handmade and limited edition design by pioneering studios for the
first time, solidifying its position as the leading platform for art and
culture in the region.
Jaya Asokan, Fair Director, India Art Fair says, “We are excited to
be opening our doors today and welcoming our visitors, exhibitors, artists,
patrons and collectors to this landmark edition of India Art Fair. For the past
15 years, the fair has been a celebration of the very best of South Asian
creativity, and in 2024 we are taking this even further with our biggest
edition yet and the inauguration of our very first Design section.
Complementing the gallery displays, we are also hosting our most ambitious
programme of commissions, projects, talks and workshops yet, showcasing the
diversity and power of artistic talent from across India and the wider region
EXHIBITOR HIGHLIGHTS
India Art Fair 2024 features some
of India’s most important contemporary galleries alongside established
international names showcasing rare masterpieces and contemporary works, as
well as examples drawing from South Asia’s traditional arts heritage. Top
Indian galleries show masterpieces by Indian modernists including Jamini Roy
(Chawla Art Gallery, Dhoomimal Gallery, DAG), G. R. Santosh (DAG), Ram Kumar
(Sanchit Art) and Ganesh Haloi (Akar Prakar, Sanchit Art), in addition to works
by Company School painters like Sewak Ram (DAG), lesser known modernists such
as B. Prabha, Radha Charan Bagchi (both DAG) and Rustom Siodia (Chatterjee
& Lal), and senior contemporary artists such as Thota Vaikuntam and Manu Parekh
(both Art Alive Gallery and Gallerie Nvya). Also on view are South Asian
artists with a global presence including Gauri Gill (Vadehra Art Gallery), Rana
Begum (Jhaveri Contemporary), Dayanita Singh (Nature Morte), Ayesha Sultana
(Experimenter), Tayeba Begum Lipi (Shrine Empire) and Mithu Sen (Chemould
Prescott Road), as well as emerging artists working across diverse mediums such
as T. Venkanna (Gallery Maskara), Isha Pimpalkhare (Tao Art Gallery), Ketaki
Sarpotdar (Latitude 28), Harsha Durugadda (Emami Art, The Arts Family) and
Rajyashri Goody (GALLERYSKE). New artists at the fair include Jatinder Singh
Durhailay (Anant Art) showing contemporary miniatures, J. Demsky (Method)
bringing futuristic works, textile artist Akshata Mokashi (Galerie Splash), photographer
Tenzing Dakpa (Indigo+Madder), printmaker Jayati Kaushik (Exhibit 320) and
installation artist Jonathan Trayte (Akara Contemporary).
The 12 international galleries at
the fair show renowned South Asian artists in the diaspora and working from countries
in the region beyond India, including Rina Banerjee (1x1 Art Gallery, Dubai),
Waqas Khan (Aicon, New York), Amba Sayal-Bennet (Indigo+Madder, London), Affan
Baghpati (Aicon Contemporary, New York), and Arjuna Gunarathne and Firi Rahman
(Saskia Fernando Gallery, Colombo), alongside international powerhouses such as
Olafur Eliasson (neugerriemschneider, Berlin), Anish Kapoor (Galleria Continua,
San Gimignano & 7 locations) and Ozioma Onuzulike (Marc Straus, New York).
About India Art Fair India Art Fair is the leading platform to
discover Modern and Contemporary art from South Asia, offering a unique access
point to the region’s thriving cultural scene.
Taking place annually in India’s
capital, New Delhi, the fair reflects the city’s fast-developing local arts
scene, while offering curated insights into the cultural landscapes of
neighbouring countries. The fair’s programme - which draws together galleries
and artists, private foundations and arts charities, artists’ collectives,
national institutions, cultural events and festivals - enables international
audiences to engage in innovative ways with the cultural history and
development of the region
The fair is committed to
supporting arts education and professional development opportunities,
recognising the crucial need to support the development of the local arts
scene, and provide dedicated exhibition space to emerging galleries and arts
organisations. The fair aims to run an extensive programme of events, including
education initiatives, artist commissions and pop-up programmes, aiming to
increase audiences for the arts within India.
About BMW’s Cultural Commitment
For over 50 years now, the BMW
Group has initiated and been engaged in hundreds of cultural co-operations
worldwide. The focus of its long-term commitment is set on modern and
contemporary art, classical music, jazz and sound, as well as architecture and
design.
Along with commissioning iconic
BMW Art Cars and co-initiatives, such as BMW Tate Live, the BMW Art Journey and
the ‘Opera for All’ concerts in Berlin, Munich, Moscow and London, the company
also partners with leading museums and art fairs as well as orchestras and
opera houses around the world. The BMW Group guarantees absolute creative freedom,
as this is just as essential for ground-breaking artistic work as it is for
major innovations in a successful business.
Since its inception, BMW India
has participated in leading cultural engagements across the country. In 2007,
two BMW Art Cars embellished by world renowned artists Andy Warhol and Roy
Lichtenstein were presented at the Jehangir Art Gallery in Mumbai. BMW Art Car
by Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons, Sandro Chia and Cesar Manrique have been
exclusively showcased at various editions of the India Art Fair.
Since 2012, BMW has partnered
with Kochi-Muziris Biennale, the contemporary art exhibition, which brings
international artists to India and creates a global platform for Indian
artists. In 2012-13, the innovative BMW Guggenheim Lab came to India. Based at
Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum and conducted at six different venues in Mumbai, the
lab organised six weeks of free programmes with diverse audiences and
communities addressing the challenges and conditions of the urban city.
India Art Fair- 2024 / All artwork images are courtesy of the artist and representing gallery.
More than 100 exhibitors raised the curtains to a unique side of art proving art is not limited to just walls and canvases.
The India Art Fair 2024 brings together a melting pot of artistic expression, with a myriad of galleries, institutions, private foundations, arts charities, artists’ collectives, cultural centers and museums hailing from India and beyond showcasing a wide spectrum of artistic styles, mediums, and influences.
The event, happening in Capital City from 1st to 4th February, serves as a platform for artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts to engage with a diverse range of artworks, reflecting the rich tapestry of creativity that spans not only across India but reaches out to the broader global artistic community.
From traditional to contemporary, textile to digital, experimental to conceptual, design to abstract the exhibition halls are filled with a dazzling array of artworks, each telling its own unique story. Visitors are having the opportunity to immerse themselves in a sea of creativity, exploring the depths of Indian art alongside international perspectives, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and inspiration.
In addition to the impressive array of galleries and museums, the 2024 edition of the India Art Fair also welcomes the participation of cultural hubs and designers. Seven design studios are being showcased in the new design section. This inclusion not only augmented the scope of the fair but also added an exciting dimension by incorporating elements of design, fashion, and cultural heritage into the artistic tapestry on display. ‘The idea is to place art and design in the same space and blur the boundaries between the fields.’ says the IAF director, Jaya Asokan.
Against the backdrop of vibrant creativity, this annual show is serving as a place for dialogue and exchange, fostering connections between artists, collectors, and audiences. Through a series of talks, workshops, special programmers and interactive installations, the fair provides a space for meaningful engagement and exploration, bridging the gap between art and its audience.
The huge installations, use of unique materiality, international art, infusion of digital elements, blend of art and luxury, experimental projects and performances all make the 15th edition of India Art Fair worth visiting. It is a testament to the boundless creativity that emanates from both India and the global artistic community, reaffirming the pivotal role of art as a medium for cultural exchange, expression, and understanding.
Sanchita Sharma_ Writer / Editor 2024 / Art Blogazine India
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