The city of Mumbai comes alive with a captivating array of art experiences as the festive season kicks off. September brings a burst of creative energy to the metropolis, offering a diverse range of art exhibitions and events. Here’s your guide to the must-see happenings this month.
Chemould Prescott Road: Celebrating Six Decades of Art
An Intergenerational Tribute to Mumbai’s Iconic Art Gallery
Chemould Prescott Road, one of Mumbai’s renowned art galleries, is celebrating its 60th anniversary with an intergenerational art celebration. This gallery’s rich history dates back to 1947, just after India gained independence, and it has been a hub for legendary artists like F. N. Souza, S. H. Raza, and M. F. Husain. Curator Shaleen Wadhwana presents “CheMoulding | Framing Future Archives,” a two-part exhibition from September to December that delves into the gallery’s extensive history, making it the first gallery in India to archive its legacy. Part 1, “Framing of CheMoulding | Framing Future Archives,” will be on display from September 16 to October 28, 2023.
DAG: Shining a Spotlight on Women Artists
Exploring the Contribution of Women Artists to Indian Modernism
DAG, a prominent player in the art world, presents “A Place in The Sun: Women Artists from 20th Century India.” This exhibition sheds light on the significant contributions of women artists in the context of Indian modernism. Featuring ten pivotal artists, including Ambika Dhurandhar, Devyani Krishna, and Zarina Hashmi, the show explores their remarkable journey through various mediums and genres. “A Place in The Sun” runs from September 9 to October 21, 2023.
Experimenter – Colaba: Sakshi Gupta’s Debut Solo Show
Exploring the Human Condition Through Ambitious Sculptures
Experimenter – Colaba presents Sakshi Gupta’s debut solo show in Mumbai, titled “If the Seas Catch Fire.” Gupta’s exhibition grapples with the complexities of the human condition through ambitious sculptures crafted from reclaimed industrial materials. These sculptures serve as analogies for the disconnect individuals often feel within themselves and the resulting internal turmoil. “If the Seas Catch Fire” can be experienced from September 15 to October 26, 2023.
Sakshi Gallery: Art as a Safe Garden
Curating a Quaint Yet Contemporary Stroll Through Gardens
Sakshi Gallery, under the curation of Srila Chatterjee of Baro Market, presents “Meet me in the Garden.” Inspired by Rumi’s quote, “Somewhere beyond right and wrong there is a garden, I will meet you there,” this exhibition offers a meandering, organic curation that explores the sanctuary a garden provides. Wolf, the artist duo behind this presentation, takes visitors on a contemporary journey through a garden that gleams with life. The exhibition runs from September 15 to October 7, 2023.
TARQ: Exploring Mumbai’s Indigenous Roots
Celebrating the Kolis and Their Rich Cultural Heritage
TARQ presents “Archipelagic Archivist,” Parag Tandel’s first solo show in seven years. This exhibition sheds light on the rich culture of the Kolis, indigenous to Mumbai’s archipelago of seven islands for centuries. Parag Tandel employs mixed media sculptures and works on paper to delve into the intricate relationships between the Koli community and coastal ecosystems. The exhibition, on display since August 10, 2023, immerses visitors in material culture and indigenous techniques, offering a poetic exploration of time and materiality. Additionally, the artist presents “Into The Bones,” a unique collaboration with metalwork artists from Bastar, Chhattisgarh, featuring 12 intricate mixed media sculptures. “Archipelagic Archivist” can be experienced until September 30, 2023, at TARQ, Fort.
As Mumbai embraces the festive spirit, its vibrant art scene invites everyone to immerse themselves in the world of creativity, diversity, and cultural richness. These exhibitions and events promise to be a treat for art enthusiasts and culture aficionados alike.
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