Sir Jamshedji Jeejeebhoy School of Art (Sir J. J. School of Art), a venerable institution with a legacy of 147 years.

 Recently, the National Academy of Customs, Indirect Taxes, and Narcotics (NACIN) at Palasamudram in Andhra Pradesh hosted an unprecedented seven-day artists’ gathering. Known as the apex training institute of the Government of India for capacity building in indirect taxation, customs, drug enforcement, and environmental protection, NACIN’s association with art is far from its usual forte. This initiative marked a significant shift, blending the realms of administrative acumen and creative expression, setting the stage for a unique cultural endeavor.

Kiyomi Talaulicar

The event brought together 25 distinguished artists from the iconic Sir Jamshedji Jeejeebhoy School of Art (Sir J. J. School of Art), a venerable institution with a legacy of 147 years. These artists immersed themselves in the vibrant and state-of-the-art campus of NACIN, turning its modern premises into a creative sanctuary. While artists often thrive in the solitude of their studios, this gathering allowed them to paint in open, collaborative spaces, showcasing their craft in full view of peers and visitors alike.

Minal Damani

The week-long artistic engagement fostered more than just creativity—it cultivated a unique camaraderie among the participants. Senior artists, with their depth of experience, shared invaluable insights with the younger cohort, offering a rare glimpse into their creative processes. For mid-career and emerging artists, this interaction served as a masterclass, enriching their perspectives and refining their approaches.

The initiative went beyond the act of painting; it became a celebration of artistic diversity and an exploration of the synergies between tradition and innovation. The event bridged generational gaps, unveiling the “methods and madnesses” of creative minds while revealing the fragilities and eccentricities that define their art.

Niyatee Shinde

By inviting art into its fold, NACIN not only honoured the legacy of the Sir J. J. School of Art but also redefined its own narrative, embracing a multidimensional approach to capacity building. This initiative stands as a testament to the transformative power of art in fostering collaboration and cultural exchange.

Text by Niyatee Shinde

Mumbai

Retrospective ShowVeteran Artist Vipta Kapadia’s I Contours of Infinity I at Jehangir Art Gallery

 Veteran Artist Vipta Kapadia’s Retrospective Exhibition – Contours of Infinity

21st January – 27th January 2025 | at Jehangir Art Gallery, Kala Ghoda, Mumbai

‘Contours of Infinity,’ is a solo retrospective showcasing the celebrated artist Vipta Kapadia's five decades of extraordinary work. Curated by Sushma Sabnis, this monumental exhibition runs from 21st to 27th January 2025 and offers a rare opportunity to immerse oneself in the evolution of Kapadia’s iconic artistic journey.

Artist: Vipta Kapadia  

Kapadia's evolution, beginning with early abstract works and culminating in masterful multi-layered compositions, has redefined the expressive language of contemporary Indian art. This exhibition celebrates the artist's lifelong commitment to exploring the emotional and cultural subtleties of abstraction, providing viewers with an exceptional overview of her extensive body of work. With her works spanning oil and acrylic on canvas, enamel on metal, and mixed media, Kapadia’s art continues to evoke visceral responses, blending the poetic with the profound.

Vipta Kapadia, a graduate of Sir J.J. School of Art, Mumbai, embarked on her artistic journey in the 1970s amidst a burgeoning wave of modernism. Inspired by post-independence Indian art movements and global Abstract Expressionism, her artwork incorporates vivid colours, complex textures, and symbolic motifs that appeal to both Eastern and Western sensibilities. Her work exemplifies the transformative power of creativity, demonstrating a balance between dynamic experimentation and a strong connection to her Indian cultural heritage.

Kapadia shows remarkable adaptability and innovation through her engagement with an array of media, including traditional canvases and unconventional materials like old vinyl records and metal. Her enamel works, a part of this display, offer a dreamlike interplay of light and shadow, reflecting her fearless embrace of the unpredictable alchemy of art-making.

In the words of curator Sushma Sabnis, ‘this retrospective transcends a mere art collection. Kapadia's artworks call forth landscapes of memory, nostalgia and imagination, transforming abstract shapes into concrete representations of life's journey.’ With themes ranging from nature’s delicate balance to the relentless pace of urban transformation, each artwork serves as a nuanced, intimate dialogue between the artist and her viewers.

The exhibition also celebrates Kapadia’s role as an educator and mentor, whose community engagement has brought art into the lives of diverse audiences. Her belief in art’s transformative potential transcends elitism, forging connections that blur the boundaries between the self and the world.

Join us as we honour veteran artist  Vipta Kapadia’s unparalleled contribution to Indian art. Contours of Infinity is a celebration of her artistic vision and a reflection of the resilience and adaptability that define her legacy.

Exhibition Details:
Dates: 21st January – 27th January 2025 Venue: Jehangir Art Gallery, 161-B, M.G. Road, Kala Ghoda, Mumbai

(11am - 7 pm)

Curator: Sushma Sabnis

For further information, interviews, or press inquiries, please contact:
Email: artist_viptakapadia@rediffmail.com
Website: www.viptakapadia.com
Mobile: +91-9820240103

“Inner Tranquility” “Inner Tranquility” Solo Show of Paintings by Renowned artist Nilesh Nikam in Jehangir

 Inner Tranquility is a solo exhibition by the artist Nilesh Dada Nikam, who is renowned for his ability to translate abstract spiritual and religious concepts into evocative visual experiences. Through his latest body of work, Nikam invites viewers to delve into a deep exploration of spirituality, harmony, and the human psyche.

Artist: Nilesh Nikam

Rooted in abstraction yet pulsating with energy, Nikam’s art captures the essence of Stillness (tranquility) in a chaotic world. His works, characterised by intricate textures, layers of colours, and geometrical and rhythmic forms, evoke a meditative resonance. Using a diverse palette of earthy and ethereal tones, the canvases pulsate with a quiet energy, offering a sensory and contemplative experience.

The title Inner Tranquility reflects the artist’s journey toward achieving a serene equilibrium amid life’s dynamic tensions. Each piece is imbued with a sense of balance, drawing inspiration from the natural world and metaphysical concepts. Nikam’s mastery lies in his ability to balance abstraction and corporeal worlds, allowing viewers to interpret and internalise his art in deeply personal ways.

This exhibition also highlights the artist’s distinctive use of texture, where layers of pigment and gestural strokes create a tactile depth, a mesmerising spiral energetic movement, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the narrative embedded within each canvas. The works serve as a visual sanctuary, urging us to pause, reflect, and connect deeply with our inner selves.

Inner Tranquility is an experience that resonates with the universal quest for peace and understanding. Artist Nilesh Dada Nikam’s unique voice, deeply rooted in spiritual inquiry, promises to captivate both seasoned art connoisseurs and new admirers.

Sushma Sabnis

Mumbai

27^th December 2024

Press Release

From: 20^th to 26^th January 2025

“Inner Tranquility” Solo Show of Paintings by Renowned artist Nilesh Nikam

 

VENUE:

Jehangir Art Gallery

161-B, M.G. Road, Kala Ghoda,Mumbai 400 001

Timing: 11am to 7pm.

 

NACIN Palasamudram campus, The initiative reflects Sir JJ School of Art’s commitment to promoting art.

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], December 27: The National Academy of Customs, Indirect Taxes and Narcotics (NACIN) organized the ‘Palasamudram National Painting Camp’ in association with the Sir JJ School of Art, Architecture and Design. This prestigious event brought together 25 renowned artists from contemporary Indian art, all distinguished alumni of the Sir JJ School of Art, Architecture, and Design. The camp was organized as part of the beautification through the creation of unique and meaningful artworks.

Artist: Nilesh Kinkale

The painting camp hosted its closing ceremony on at the NACIN campus. Over this period, the celebrated artists contributed their exceptional talents to transform the campus into a vibrant space that reflects the rich cultural heritage and creativity of India. The initiative not only aimed to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the campus but also to provide a platform for fostering artistic exchange and collaboration. The renowned artists – Anil Naik, Bhagwan Chavan from Chennai, Deepak Shinde, Devdatta Padekar, Jyotsna Kadam, Minal Damani, Nilesh Palav, Nilesh Kinkale, Prakash Waghmare, Rahul Vajale, Rajendra Kapse, Rakesh Kumar from Jammu, Sanjeev Sonpimpre, Sanjay Sawant, Shilpa Nikam, Santosh More, Shreekant Dhunde from Hyderabad, Suhas Bahulkar, Shilpa Patole, Vilas Shinde, Vishakha Apte from Bhopal, Vivek Sharma, Kiyomi Talaulicar, Nanda Das from Agartala, and All artists made remarkable contributions to beautification by crafting unique and meaningful artworks.

Artist: Bhagwan Chavan and Shreekant Dhunde at Art Camp

The event was curated and implemented with the joint efforts by Mr. Shashikant Kakade, Registrar, Sir JJ School of Art, Architecture and Design, Mumbai and Prof. Rajanish Kamat, Vice Chancellor, Sir JJ School of Art, Architecture and Design, Mumbai of the institute. Mr. Kakade also graced the event by his august presence.

Art camp Recent works by Deepak Shinde

The artists from Sir JJ School of Art, Architecture and Design showcased a remarkable confluence of art, culture, and creativity to witness the transformation of the Palasamudram campus into a masterpiece of collective imagination.

Shri Gaigongdin Panmei, Principal Director General, NACIN, Palasamudram said, “This painting camp is a unique fusion of art and purpose, symbolizing the power of creativity to inspire and transform spaces. We are honored to host such a talented group of artists who will leave a lasting legacy on our campus.”

Prof. Rajanish Kamat, Vice Chancellor, Sir JJ School of Art, Architecture and Design, Mumbai said, “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the participating artists and organizers for their dedication to this initiative. The National Painting Camp at Palasamudram is not only a celebration of artistic excellence but also a testament to the enduring partnership between NACIN and the Sir JJ School of Art.”

Artsit: Prakash Waghmare

The artworks created during this camp will become an integral part of the NACIN Palasamudram campus, enriching the environment for trainees and visitors alike. The initiative reflects Sir JJ School of Art’s commitment to promoting art, culture and education in harmony. Through this event, we aim to establish Palasamudram as a hub of artistic and intellectual inspiration, paving the way for future collaborations in the field of art and design.

In Association with
Sir J. J. School of Art, Architecture and Design,
Mumbai, MH.
National Academy of Customs,
Indirect Taxes & Narcotics, Palasamudram, AP
Present
Painting Camp
Renowned Contemporary Indian Artists
at
( JJ alumni)
13- 19 December 2024
National Academy of Customs,
Indirect Taxes & Narcotics,(NACIN)
Palasamudram, Andhra Pradesh.