Abir India, a charitable trust dedicated to nurturing and promoting artistic talent, connects artists with patrons both within India and internationally. Started in 2016 by Ruby Jagrut, an advocate for natural dyes who is located in Ahmedabad focuses on showcasing the work of young artists from various regions of urban and rural India, Abir provides platforms for virtual and real expositions. Through its charitable trust, Abir mentors, guides, and supports these budding artists by offering digital showcasing, group shows, awards, and financial assistance. One of Abir India’s flagship events is the Annual Fest known as First Take. In its upcoming 7th edition, First Take 2023 will take place in Ahmedabad, showcasing the next generation of artists and celebrating their creative expressions.
Courtesy: Abir India.
The Journey of First Take
First Take serves as a significant initiative by Abir India to provide a prominent platform for emerging artists to showcase their artistic prowess. Each year, a distinguished jury composed of renowned artists, critics, and curators carefully reviews numerous entries and selects approximately 100 exceptional artworks. Last year’s jury members included Jayaram Poduval, GR Iranna, Manjunath Kamat, Manisha Parekh, and V. Ramesh, who diligently curated the collection. Previous editions of First Take have been graced by esteemed personalities in the art world, including Muzzafar Ali, Ravinder Reddy, Johny ML, Manu Parekh, Walter D’Souza, Seema Kohli, and Subodh Kerkar to name a few.
Courtesy: Abir India
The Grandeur of First Take 2022
First Take 2022 marked a significant milestone for Abir India as the event transcended its usual venue in Ahmedabad and ventured into the vibrant city of Delhi. This expansion reflects Abir’s growing confidence and support from participating artists, jury members, sponsors, and well-wishers. The overwhelming response received during the previous edition, with over 2000 artworks submitted from 400 different locations across India, showcases the increasing popularity and significance of the event.
A Promising Future
Abir India’s First Take continues to grow with each passing year, aiming to become better and larger. The organisation remains committed to its mission of providing a platform for emerging talents and supporting them throughout their artistic journey. The challenging times brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic have underscored the importance of events like First Take, which serve as crucial opportunities to recognise and appreciate emerging talent while experiencing the expanding art universe.
Courtesy: Abir India.
First Take 2023: A Glimpse into the Future
The eagerly anticipated First Take 2023 is scheduled to begin on November 24th, marking the seventh edition of this esteemed event. Artists from across India are invited to participate and showcase their work, with the eminent jury set to select the best submissions. The festival not only celebrates art but also brings together art enthusiasts, senior artists, art historians, art critics, curators, and investors for engaging dialogues, discussions, and demonstrations.
Abir India’s First Take has become a significant platform for nurturing and promoting emerging artistic talent in India. The event’s expansion to different cities, the participation of diverse artists from various regions, and the growing number of submissions are an example of its increasing impact. Abir’s dedication and support, combined with the continuous inspiration and strength derived from its supporters, contribute to its continuous growth. First Take serves as a vital opportunity for artists to gain recognition, navigate the challenging art landscape, and connect with a wider audience. As Abir India looks forward to First Take 2023, it encourages art lovers and patrons to join in celebrating the winners and participants.
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Abir India’s First Take 2023: A Nationwide Phenomenon – 2800 Contributions from 429 Cities
Iftikar Ahmed is a New Delhi-based art writer, researcher and curator.
