The penultimate day of the Indian Art, Architecture and Design Biennale, 2023 titled, ‘DESHAJ: Bharat X Design’, kicked off with enlightening keynote addresses by Mr. Nicola Stripolli Tarshito, renowned artist and professor, and Dr. Madhuvanti Ghose, accomplished art historian and Alsdorf Associate Curator at the Art Institute of Chicago who shared their unique artistic perspectives on Bharat’s profound influence on design and the role and importance of folk and indigenous artists in shaping the heritage of design in India.
The following panel discussion included Srila Chatterjee, Co-Founder of Baro Market, Vaishnavi Kumari, Founder of Studio Kishangarh, and Mitchell Abdul Karim Crites, an Art Historian seamlessly moderated by Anuradha Singh, a renowned journalist. The speakers shared their thoughts and opinions about the legacy of indigenous design and crafts in the nation and the importance and need to preserve the same as it is a part of intangible cultural heritage.
‘Deshaj’ translates to ‘Indigenous’ and is an important exhibition that seeks to celebrate and honour the living heritage of India’s indigenous arts and design. The title itself emphasizes the profound significance of these artistic traditions, which serve as a treasure for our ancient civilization. These arts have not only endured the tests of time, migrations and changes in society but continue to evolve, deeply rooted in the day-to-day lives of the people through practised rituals and traditions.
Set in a historical barrack at the majestic Red Fort in Delhi, the exhibition sheds light on the remarkable resilience and sophistication of indigenous arts, going beyond their widely recognized ritualistic and animistic aspects. These artistic expressions, born from an inherent understanding and sensibility of design, transcend the use of nature as mere inspiration and take on profound subjects that resonate with audiences.
The exhibition aims to challenge preconceptions and stereotypes and present them in a fresh and contemporary context The exhibition focuses on the complexity and brilliance of indigenous artworks. and highlights the inherent sophistication and artistic mastery in each piece, encouraging a deeper appreciation and understanding. It is important to strike a balance between preserving cultural heritage and allowing for progressive development and recognising the challenges faced by indigenous communities amidst the rampant gentrification, urbanization and modernization.
It is important to embrace the philosophy of living in commonality, where the indigenous and non-indigenous urban communities learn from each other, fostering mutual respect and collaboration. To enhance the narrative, the exhibition explores the influence of indigenous arts on mainstream urban artists. By showcasing the work of non-indigenous artists who have been inspired by indigenous art forms. They shine a spotlight to highlight the enduring impact and relevance of these traditions’ nouveau artistic expression.
Courtesy – Abir Pothi
The exhibition features a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, paintings, and objects reflecting the rich diversity of indigenous artistic expressions across India. It also celebrates the artistic accomplishments and trajectories of indigenous artists, presenting their works alongside those of urban artists for a comprehensive and inclusive experience. There is an amalgamation of augmented reality with fine art corroborating a separate section where artworks have a life of their own.
Celebrating the living heritage of India’s indigenous arts will undoubtedly be a transformative journey that transcends boundaries of time, culture, and preconceived notions presenting indigenous arts in a contemporary light and fostering a commonality, this exhibition aims to elevate these artistic treasures to the place in the collective consciousness of India and the world visitors will be inspired to cherish and support the continuation of invaluable artistic traditions, recognizing the profound impact they hold today and in the time to come.
Image Courtesy – Abir Pothi
Day 2 was about baaghs, bahaars and gulistans at the IAADB’23
IAADB’23: Day 4 Celebrates the Influence of Temple Architecture and Design in India
Anoushkha Prasad is a post-graduate from the School of Arts and Aesthetics, J.N.U. She is currently working as a researcher and writer.
