Gallery Threshold organized an exhibition called “Reflecting the Self.” It displays artworks by several artists, such as Achia Anzi, Anju Dodiya, Anupam Sud, Atul Dodiya, G. R. Iranna, Gulam Mohammed Sheikh, K. G. Subramanyan, Manjunath Kamath, Paramjit Singh, V. Ramesh, Sudhir Patwardhan, and Shobha Broota. The works highly concentrated on the portrayal of self in different ways. Some artists pursued a figurative or literal path, while others embraced a more imaginative or conceptual route. The purpose of this show was to commemorate the gallery’s 25th anniversary. It was deemed by curator Tunty Chauhan to be advantageous to centre the focus on self-portraits and self-representation.
The goal was to include artists with different styles and ideas. To express her gratitude towards her supporters, the curator organized the exhibition as a token of appreciation. Having requested the presence of a group of artists, she quickly realized that each one possessed a unique artistic technique. Realizing that depicting themselves through figurative self-reflection was too predictable and authentic, they (along with Deeksha Nath) decided to redefine how they could portray their identity. This concept carries immense significance as it represents not just the artists but also the gallery through these artworks. This exhibition by the artists serves as a reflection of their own identities. Trying out novel approaches and experimenting with ideas, these works contribute to the notion of a gallery as a space for creativity.
Focusing exclusively on self-portraits, the exhibition Reflecting the Self holds great significance. The exploration of this theme is vast, delving deep into its intricacies and complexities. The self-portraits displayed in this exhibition have a rich history and have been present in the art world for a significant period.
Their aims encompass multiple aspects: linking different artistic styles, symbolizing the passage of time, and delving into the gallery’s viewpoint after a period of seclusion and vulnerability. Besides the exhibited self-portraits, the curators incorporate other artistic techniques for depicting oneself, like utilizing similar auditory elements or drawing comparisons to other subjects. The act of creating self-portraits carries immense importance for artists, as well as for those who witness their artwork on display. Their role involves enabling artists to form connections and promoting a more profound comprehension of one another through conversations about the complexities of people.
Solo shows commonly encompass a shared theme and generally adhere to a specific type of art, if only sometimes identical. There is a type of repetition in artworks, but I have discovered in this show that the gallery features various artists who depict things in different ways. Certain representations convey concepts literally or through symbolic means, whereas others employ metaphors or abstract ideas to express their essence. Every work plays a part in the overarching concept of attaining equilibrium, making it highly meaningful.
In numerous circumstances, self-reflection becomes essential for uncovering our true selves. We frequently venture down various avenues to comprehend our purpose and significance in life. Unveiling our genuine selves from within is the ultimate objective for humans, but occasionally, we consciously decide to disregard this aspiration. Some individuals uncover their true identities by emulating or resembling others, while others find their genuine selves through the fulfilment provided by little things that give meaning to their existence.
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