Abirpothi

Smriti Malhotra

Contributor

Amol K Patil’s UK Debut: ‘The Politics of Skin and Movement’ at Hayward Gallery

Celebrating a Multifaceted Artistic Journey Amol K Patil, the conceptual and performance artist from Mumbai, is set to make his institutional solo debut in the United Kingdom with the exhibition titled ‘The Politics of Skin and Movement.’ The show is scheduled to open on October 11, 2023, at the Hayward Gallery’s HENI Project Space, marking […]

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Kottan Chronicles: Weaving the Story of Chettinad’s Palmyra Baskets

What are the Kottan Baskets of Chettinad? The Chettinad region, situated in the Sivagangai district of Tamil Nadu, Southern India, is renowned for its opulent mansions, ancient temples, and aromatic cuisine. This area encompasses not only the capital town of Karaikudi but also 74 surrounding villages, and it is the ancestral homeland of the Nattukottai

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Somaskanda Murthy: A Divine Union of Shiva, Parvati, and Skanda

Introduction Somaskanda Murthy, a significant and enigmatic deity in Hinduism, stands at the crossroads of divinity, symbolising the intricate matrix of life, spirituality, and cosmic unity. Within the sacred embrace of this divine triad lies a profound representation of the cosmic order, where Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, and their illustrious son, Lord Skanda, seamlessly merge

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From Divine Guardian to Spiritual Guide: The Enigmatic Nandi Bull in Hinduism

INTRODUCTION Hinduism, one of the world’s oldest and most diverse religions, is replete with a rich variety of symbols and icons that serve as profound sources of spiritual inspiration and wisdom. Among these sacred symbols, the Nandi bull stands as a prominent and revered figure, often found in Hindu temples across the Indian subcontinent. The

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Orhan Pamuk’s ‘The Museum of Innocence: A Literary Masterpiece Transformed into Art

Introduction Orhan Pamuk, the acclaimed Turkish author, is renowned for his ability to weave intricate tales that capture the essence of Istanbul and the human condition. One of his most remarkable works, “The Museum of Innocence,” transcends the realm of literature to become a tangible art form, as Pamuk ingeniously transforms words into objects, creating

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5 Philosophies of Art You Should Know About

Introduction Art is a boundless subject that has enchanted humanity for millennia, functioning as a  crucial conduit for the articulation of thoughts, sentiments, and interpretations of the human experience. This intricate and multifaceted subject has spurred countless debates among philosophers, artists, and scholars, giving rise to an array of philosophical perspectives that seek to decipher

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From Skinning Animals to Fine Art: The Diverse Journeys of Renowned Taxidermy Artist

Dan Ostermiller, a native of Colorado-born in 1956, was deeply immersed in the world of taxidermy from a young age, thanks to his family legacy. His father, a renowned taxidermist, had travelled the globe for his craft, performing surgeries on animals in Africa, India, Alaska, and Canada. Dan’s upbringing was steeped in taxidermy, and it

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Re-evaluating the British Museum’s Role: A Dialogue on Colonial Artefacts and Ethical Obligations

Introduction The British Museum’s loss of 1,500 items, allegations of theft involving insiders, and the questions raised about its extensive collection’s origins have ignited a renewed discussion on the moral and ethical aspects of retaining artefacts acquired during the era of imperialism. In light of these developments, Professor Kavita Singh’s perspective becomes a critical lens

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Jamdani: The Art of Exquisite Textiles from Bengal and Bangladesh

What is Jamdani? Where does it come from? The distinctive texture seen against the airy backdrop of muslin fabric characterises the cherished Jamdani cloth, a beacon of history and heritage. This textile tradition is rooted in meticulous handloom weaving, utilising a unique technique where design threads are woven discontinuously, ensuring that the muslin’s transparency is

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Divine Doorways: Exploring the Mystique of Kavad Art from Rajasthan

A kavad is a mobile shrine or temple intricately crafted from painted wood. It holds significance within the oral storytelling practice known as kavad banchana, widely embraced in the Rajasthan region. The term “kavad” is thought to have roots in Sanskrit words such as “kavaat,” “kapaat,” or “kivaad,” which allude to a “half door” or

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