Snowball: Threaded Visions: Contemporary Embroidery For A Sustainable Future

 March 29, 2024

Creatively Embroidered by Milaaya Embroideries’’ Gayatri Khanna, Presented by MASH – Shalini Passi, Curated by Dr. Arshiya Lokhandwala,

Snowball Studios is delighted to host an extraordinary exhibition, “Threaded Visions,” from 3rd to 6th, April 2024, between 11 AM to 7 PM. This innovative showcase, creatively embroidered by Milaaya Embroideries by Gayatri Khanna, is presented by MASH – Shalini Passi and Curated by Dr. Arshiya Lokhandwala.

Following its successful debut at the India Art Fair ’24, “Threaded Visions” seamlessly weaves the intricate threads of Indian craft and art at Snowball Studios. This exhibition represents a pioneering convergence of couture embroideries and artistic expression, offering visitors a glimpse into a world where tradition meets art.

The masterpieces on display reflect the celebrated works of modern and contemporary artists, meticulously interpreted through couture embroidery techniques by Milaaya Embroideries. Each stitch not only breathes life into the artwork but also celebrates India’s rich tradition of craftsmanship.

S.H.Raza- Surya Namaskar

Renowned artists such as S H Raza, Gulam Mohammed Sheikh, Nilima Sheikh, Ranbir Kaleka, Ram Kumar, and K K Hebbar have their works featured in this unique exhibition with exclusive copyrights given to Milaaya Embroideries. Their art serves as a visual narrative, inviting contemplation on the delicate balance between nature and human existence.

“Threaded Visions” goes beyond the realm of artistry; it serves as a poignant commentary on sustainability and climate change. Through the embroidered interpretations of modern and contemporary artworks, the exhibition prompts viewers to reflect on ecological concerns and the urgent need for conservation.

Visitors will witness a diverse array of embroidery techniques, including Aari and Zardozi, Satin stitch, Phulkari, Kutch embroidery, Kantha stitch, and French Knots, among others. Each artwork intricately crafted by skilled artisans not only showcases the beauty of embroidery but also sparks meaningful conversations about our collective responsibility towards the planet.

“Threaded Visions” invites you to explore the interconnectedness between art, craft, and sustainability. Join us at Snowball Studios from 3rd to 6th April and embark on a journey that celebrates creativity while advocating for a more sustainable future.

Gulam Sheikh ( A tree in my life)

Milaaya Art Foundation Championing Artisan Empowerment and Community Development

Hand embroidery, a cherished tradition passed down through generations, faces modern challenges in today’s fast-paced world. Led by Gayatri Khanna, the foundation is committed to uplifting artisans and preserving cultural heritage by providing training in distinctive couture embroidery techniques.

Milaaya Art Foundation recognizes that empowering artisans goes beyond skill development; it opens doors to new opportunities in the world of art, creating a pathway for growth and self-expression. By equipping artisans with valuable skills, the foundation not only enhances their earning potential but also fosters a more enriching work environment, leading to improved living conditions and overall well-being.

Moreover, the foundation’s initiatives extend to community development, with a focus on establishing factories in or near artisans’ hometowns. By bringing employment opportunities closer to home, Milaaya encourages artisans to live in better conditions, fostering stronger family ties and community bonds.

Gayatri Khanna emphasizes the importance of collective action in preserving this dwindling trade. Milaaya Art Foundation welcomes collaboration from other organizations, recognizing that true impact requires a united effort that benefits the entire artisan community.

Through this significant initiative, Milaaya Art Foundation is not only safeguarding traditional craftsmanship but also building a brighter future for artisans and their communities.

Art blogazine

AstaGuru’s ‘Next Gen’ Auction Shines with Iconic Anish Kapoor Sculpture and Contemporary Masterpieces”

 

AstaGuru will present the next edition of its ‘Next Gen’ Contemporary Art Auction with over 100 works by leading and famous contemporary artists. The finely curated catalogue is led by an awe-inspiring creation by Anish Kapoor, executed in 2012. Lot no. 71 by Kapoor belongs to his vast oeuvre of mirror-like stainless steel discs that manipulate reflections, creating captivating distortions while providing a seamless view. This lot is estimated to sell at INR 5,00,00,000-7,00,00,000.

Works by eminent contemporary Indian artists such as Atul Dodiya, Subodh Gupta, Jitish Kallat, Nataraj Sharma, Valay Shende, Suryakant Lokhande, Ranbir Singh Kaleka, Surendran Nair, Bose Krishnamachari, Jagannath Panda, Baiju Parthan, Jayashree Chakravarty, Sheila Makhijani, G R Iranna and Sudhir Patwardhan will also be on offer. The auction is scheduled for April 8-9, 2024.

Commenting on the upcoming auction, Ankita Talreja, AVP at AstaGuru Auction House says, “This auction will be showcasing a diverse curation of works by both leading and upcoming artists in the contemporary Indian art space. These artists have been instrumental in voicing the passions and concerns of the current time, and reshaping how Indian art is seen today. Influenced by their cultural backgrounds and personal trials and tribulations, each work is a unique depiction of their artistic vision. Not only are these works diverse in subject matter, but also in styles, techniques and palettes. The unconventional and innovative nature of contemporary Indian art has found a growing base of collectors, both new and seasoned, looking to diversify their collections. We are proud to offer collectors a chance to acquire impressive sculptures and paintings from the oeuvres of the next generation of visionary artists. ” 

Artist: Anish Kapoor

Surendran Nair:

Lot no. 1, an oil on canvas work titled ‘Rainbows In Curved Air – Study For An Installation Elysium (Cuckoonebulopolis)’  by Surendran Nair was executed in 2010. The artist draws inspiration from political caricatures and cinema posters. His work seamlessly blends traditional and contemporary imagery while being rooted in surrealism. This lot is estimated to sell at INR 15,00,000-20,00,000.

Rana Begum:

Rana Begum’s Lot No. 8 titled ‘No. 679 – Fold’, executed with lacquer-coated steel in 2016, is an impressive example of her prowess in minimal abstraction and geometric constructions.  She is best known for works that are an enigmatic interplay of light, colour and shapes on surfaces. This is estimated at INR 15,00,000-20,00,000.

Prithpal Singh Ladi:

Lot No. 15 is an untitled creation by Prithpal Singh Ladi. Executed with fibreglass, aluminium, rope, glass, wood, and paint, the sculpture showcases Ladi’s penchant for the unconventional, as he effortlessly transitions between the mundane and the fantastical. The lot will be offered at an estimate of INR 20,00,000-30,00,000.

Shilo Shiv Suleman:

Titled ‘Separation (The Magician)’, Lot No. 16  by Shilo Shiv Suleman is a unique display of magical realism. The acrylic on canvas executed in 2022 showcases Suleman’s fascination with the female form and nature. This lot is estimated at INR 8,00,000-10,00,000.

Atul Dodiya:

Lot No. 29 titled ‘Stammer In The Shade – VIII’ is a sculpture executed with acrylic, marble dust, iron crutches, iron brackets & gold leaf by artist Atul Dodiya. Executed in 2005, the presented lot will be offered at an estimate of INR 20,00,000-30,00,000.

Valay Shende:

Lot No. 36, a sculpture titled ‘Girl With Balloons (ED: 2APS+8)’ by eminent sculptor Valay Shende, is executed using his signature medium – coated & painted stainless steel discs. The presented lot serves as an ode to children often seen selling ephemera, such as balloons in this instance on the road. It will be offered at an estimate of INR 10,00,000-15,00,000.

Sheila Makhijani:

Titled ‘Peachy Peach Leachy Leach’, Lot no. 43 is an acrylic on canvas by Sheila Makhijani, created in the year 2002. The intense display of movement through soft and dark colour tones adds a unique and nuanced take on her intricate geometry. This lot is estimated to sell at INR 15,00,00,000-20,00,000.

Nataraj Sharma:

Lot No. 64 titled, ‘Tailor Ahmed 6th Main 36th Cross’ is an oil on canvas by Nataraj Sharma. His canvases, imbued with both wit and introspection, delve into the ramifications of swiftly evolving urban landscapes. Employing a complex interplay of visual elements— memories, sweeping vistas, technology, intricate imagery, and the natural world—Sharma crafts a distinctive visual dialect that infuses familiar imagery with fresh connotations. This lot is estimated at INR 30,00,000-40,00,000.

Subodh Gupta:

Lot No. 103 titled ‘Black Thing (Ed:1/3)’ is a large-scale sculpture by Subodh Gupta executed using steel structure, plastic and painted stainless steel pincers.  The presented lot, created in  2007, showcases Gupta’s artistic vision and preoccupation with monumental works utilising objects seen in daily life. This lot is estimated at a value of INR 60,00,000-80,00,000.

Thukral & Tagra:

Lot No. 118 is an untitled oil on canvas by Thukral & Tagra. The duo’s work is characterised by vibrant imagery and exuberant colours, featuring everyday objects like cameras and alarm clocks alongside people, flora and fauna. This lot will be offered at an estimate of INR 10,00,000-15,00,000.

An analysis of the auction results can be viewed on www.astaguru.com.

All figures include margin amt.

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.

For more information, please log on to https://www.astaguru.com/

Facebook: @Astaguru | Instagram: @astaguru | X: @astagurutweets

Colourful realms of life - Vachi Art Gallery

A group art exhibition showcasing the works of 11 eminent artists will be presented by Vachi Art Gallery at 141-B, 1st Floor, Atria Mall, Dr. Annie Besant Road, Worli, Mumbai 400 018 from 22 to 28 April, 2024. It will be open for free public viewing there daily from 11 am. to 7 pm.

The contemporary artists participating in this group art show are Somenath Maity, Pradip Sarkar, Anand Panchal, Bhaskar Rao, Ganpati Hegde, Nilesh Nikam, Amol Pawar, Sukanta Das, Rahul Dangat, Paras Parmar, Arti Vohra        

Nature occupies an important place in the conceptual paintings in this art show. It signifies various norms of Life in Nature and Gods in Nature in the pictorial forms as paintings. In a way, the vivid works to be displayed in this show will be focussed on Nature and its sanctity in life.

By Sunita Sanghai - Owner of Vachi Art Gallery

 Various works will be presented in different mediums and techniques by the participating artists as per their thematic perceptions.

Artist: Somenath Maity

Somenath Maity – He has endeavoured to capture the essence of bustling cities through oil paintings in abstract style. He is meticulous and uses bold colours and textures to portray raw energy and dynamism of the urban environments leading to cit

Pradip Sarkar – His works explore the fusion of imagination and music symbolizing life’s essence. He has advocated the presence of divine energy wityscapes in his style of focus on form, colour, and texture rather than people or building. hin humanity. His artistic use of geometric semi-abstraction in the artworks reflect a meditative journey rooted in Vedic philosophy and pursuit of self-discipline. It is a spiritual semi-abstract geometric art using imagery and symbolism.

.Sukanta Das – He creates captivating mixed media work based on beautiful portraits of women who are both pleasing and enigmatic. These figures spark the viewers’ imagination inviting them to create narratives around the subject. He uses calligraphy into his work thereby adding a unique blending of modern sensibilities and traditions in his style.

Artist: Bhaskar Rao

Bhaskar Rao – He paints landscapes filled with memories of the places he has seen. These works reveal his love for the world and the joy, awe and sometimes sadness. Trees are a special symbol in his works to signify their importance to nature and culture.

Rahul Dangat – He incorporates both warm and cool ethnic hues in his paintings, aiming to evoke the pleasant scent of soil and the soothing/calming feeling of the first rains. His style is based on abstract landscapes with a focus on nature and the textures specially achieved to get the desired visual effect in the works.

Amol Pawar – His diverse experimentations with mediums, colours, and forms reflect his unique life’s rhythm, predominantly captured in earthy tones which echo his profound connection with nature. He seamlessly blends figurative and abstract elements, depicting human figures as reflections of himself. He portrays eternal love symbolised by Shakti that includes powerful animal figures and symbolic elements like numbers and calligraphy.

Nilesh Nikam – His art revolves around meditation and holistic wellness featuring iconic symbols like tortoise, lotus and conch providing solace amidst life’s chaos. He has used meditation as a valuable practice in human life with priority on health and well being. Inspired by meditative yoga practice ‘Tratak’, his works guide viewers through inner reflection with a gradual focus on a central point to attract positive energy. He often introduces new concepts and symbols enhanced by colours symbolising success such as gold, silver and bronze etc., enriching his works with depth and significance.

Artist: Anand Panchal

Anand Panchal – He has depicted landscapes inspired by his life experiences filled with gratitude and love. His strokes illustrate memories and emotions echoing his personal truths. Trees symbolize resilience having sacred significance in his works. His art reflects deep connection with nature and the environment characterized by a blend of landscape, themes

Paras Parmar – He delves into abstract poetry and verse with a focus on blues and earthy hues. It presents a harmonious structure reflecting a serene state of mind, devoid of conflict. His use of vibrant colours and subtle pastel tones together create a positive and tranquil atmosphere. Layered influences of mood within the painting evoke gentle emotions in a sensitive human being and spirit. His work ‘Kamdhenu’ is extremely thematic & relevant.

Artist: Ganpati Hegde

Ganpati Hegde – His work ‘Sumukha’ portrays Lord Ganesha as a symbol of nature’s energy using vibrant colours and natural elements like flowers and leaves. It suggest the Ganesha’s eternal connection to creation and spiritual happiness to result into symbolic figurative work. Wealth depicts Laxmi the goddess of prosperity embodying the concept of wealth beyond material possessions including nature’s abundance. An elephant bows before her as she sits gracefully on a lotus, adorned with symbolic elements emphasizing the sacredness of nature and divine blessings. It is a symbolic depiction of the deities.

Arti Vohra – Her artwork incorporates every aspect of life subtly influencing our perceptions & experiences. True essence of art lies in the eyes of the beholder to allow for diverse interpretation. Her aim is to create artwork which offers the viewers the freedom to interpret it in their own way. She is impressed by the diversity of the world and it has duly resulted in her sound artistic expressions in the unique art works. 

From: 22nd to 28th April 2024

Vachi Art Gallery Presents

“The Soul’s Canvas”Expressions of Inner Worlds”

An Exhibition of paintings by 11 eminent artists - Somenath Maity, Pradip Sarkar, Anand Panchal, Bhaskar Rao, Ganpati Hegde, Nilesh Nikam, Amol Pawar, Sukanta Das, Rahul Dangat, Paras Parmar, Arti Vohra

VENUE:-

Vachi Art Gallery

141-B, 1st Floor, Atria Mall / Dr. Annie Besant Road,

Worli, Mumbai 400 018 / Timing: 11am to 7pm.

Contact: +91 9152011110 / www.vachiart.com

The Guild is delighted to announce The Chaos Trilogy III:

Out of Here, That’s My Goal, an upcoming exhibition curated by Premjish Achari and featuring the works of Baiju Parthan, Gigi Scaria, Gulammohammed Sheikh, Namita Vishwakarma, N. N. Rimzon, Rajkumar Korram, Ranbir Kaleka, Ravi Agarwal, Sathyanand Mohan and Shantibai.

The exhibition will preview at our Alibaug location on Friday, the 19th of April, at noon, and continue until the 30th of June.

The Chaos Trilogy - III

The three exhibitions that form the Chaos Trilogy open the conversations on the chaotic situation we are embroiled in to examine the various crises that have taken centre stage in the last three decades in India. The first two parts of the exhibition, titled Disorder Under Heaven and Aliens in a Foreign Land were held over 2022–23, and looked at the themes of the growing social chaos since the nineties; and the questions of home and homelessness, respectively.

All Images © Artist and The Guild

Out of Here, That’s My Goal

In this final exhibition, as part of the Chaos Trilogy, we examine the ecological crisis and map various artistic responses to the impending doom. The ongoing environmental crisis originated with modernity and has escalated in the last three decades because of the increased exploitation of natural resources. This problem has also led to the rise of climate refugees, mass displacement and disenfranchisement of citizens, and aggressive destruction of ecologically sensitive areas with the help of newly formed laws.

Kafka's writing inspires the title, and in this context, it does not propose an exit from this situation; instead, it advocates departing from the status quo if we need to imagine an ecologically sensitive future. The mainstream discourses on the ecological crisis and the strategies of resistance are mainly anchored from a Eurocentric perspective. The global south is obscured from these discussions. It is often held responsible for this crisis due to heavy dependence on fossil fuels, large-scale manufacturing units, and archaic waste disposal systems without addressing the exploitative nature of the global capitalistic system. Furthermore, we must understand the limitations of alternatives, such as lifestyle environmentalism, that blame modern consumer culture as the root cause of ecological problems. We need an urgent shift of frames sensitive to the context of the global south to understand the material interests of the global south in saving the environment. How could we harness such an interest to confront the owners of capital who are responsible for this crisis? This exhibition proposes alternative perspectives to look beyond the local, the parochial, and the community to think about planetary solidarity and human emancipation.

About The Guild

The Guild was established in 1997 with an aim to function as a semi-institutional space within the bustling art-hub of Mumbai, India. Since its inception, it has been providing a platform for discursive practices, innovation and experimentation in contemporary art. The Guild represents artists of diverse generations who have brought in robust dialogue within and across their disciplines.

The gallery has held major retrospectives of K. P. Reji, Sudhir Patwardhan, Navjot Altaf and G. R. Iranna in collaboration with premier national art centres, and published a number of books with essays by preeminent critics and curators on contemporary Indian artists, such as Sudhir Patwardhan, Navjot Altaf, Jyoti Bhatt, K.G. Subramanyan, A. Ramachandran and T. V. Santhosh, amongst others.

For more details, please contact us at:

teamattheguild2@gmail.com, theguildart@gmail.com