The much-anticipated exhibition, “Cut from the Same Cloth,” by renowned visual artist Seema Kohli, finally opened at Bikaner House on Friday, captivating art enthusiasts with its intriguing exploration of the female form through the exquisite medium of embroidery.
Featuring an impressive collection of 15 artworks, each carefully crafted with silk and cotton threads, beads, and sequins on untreated canvas cloth, Kohli’s latest exhibition is a celebration of feminine energy in its various manifestations. Through her art, she weaves a narrative that harmoniously merges themes of beauty, sensuality, and spirituality with the ancient myths and figures of India.
The artistic pursuts goes beyond traditional boundaries by fusing embroidery with other art forms, as evident in three striking paintings done in acrylics with gold and silver leaf on canvas, and two works on gold tissue. This unique fusion of painting and embroidery adds depth and dimension to the pieces, enhancing the visual experience for visitors.
One of the central ideas that Kohli masterfully conveys in “Cut from the Same Cloth” is the profound interconnectedness between the mind, body, breath and consciousness. Through her artwork, she articulates the delicate balance required among these elements to maintain equilibrium in life. The exhibition encapsulates the notion that all aspects of existence, including consciousness, soul, and breath, are interconnected and form an inseparable part of a greater whole which is feminine.
Intriguing symbols and metaphors abound throughout the exhibition. The wings, metaphorically representing the transcendent state of higher consciousness, soar beyond the boundaries of societal hierarchy. The dragon, symbolising the mind, acts as a vehicle to transport individuals to different realms. The exquisite portrayal of Yoginis riding the dragon and skillfully controlling it exemplifies the mastery of feminine energy. For Kohli’ everything is made up of the feminine energy.
When asked about her inspirations, Kohli eloquently expressed that creativity knows no boundaries and can draw inspiration from the most unexpected sources. Whether it be a small flower, a drop of rain, or diverse cultural and religious influences, all ideas converge to reveal a universal truth— the existence of a higher space or consciousness, uniting all of creation as one.
The exhibition showcases Kohli’s artistic evolution, featuring earlier works alongside her more recent creations. Themes like the Tree of Life and the golden womb permeate the journey, demonstrating how her art language has evolved subtly over the years, becoming more refined and definitive.
“Cut from the Same Cloth” promises to leave an indelible impression on art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. As the exhibition continues, it may undergo further evolution, embodying the essence of change and fluidity present in all aspects of life.
The exhibition is open till 4 August at the Centre for Contemporary Art At Bikaner House, NewDelhi.
Iftikar Ahmed is a New Delhi-based art writer, researcher and curator.
