Aditya Sisodia
In a remarkable collaboration between People For Animals (PFA), India’s oldest and largest Animal Welfare Organisation, and master ceramicist P R Daroz, a groundbreaking exhibit is set to take place on the evening of August 4, 2023. The exhibit, titled ‘100 Bowls,’ introduces a new collectable art form that blurs the boundaries between art and everyday life, offering art enthusiasts from all walks of life an affordable and stylish addition to their homes.
PFA has long been at the forefront of promoting diverse art forms, and its partnership with P R Daroz showcases its commitment to supporting artists and their noble cause of animal welfare. The exhibit will feature a special collection of 100 large and magnificent bowls created exclusively for People For Animals by the renowned ceramics master. Each bowl, priced at an affordable Rs. 35,000, is a testament to Daroz’s artistic prowess and his dedication to the cause.
Also read: Artist Profile(PR Daroz)
P R Daroz is a name synonymous with excellence in ceramics. His remarkable talent has earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious National Academy Award for ceramics by Lalit Kala Akademi and his participation in renowned international events such as the World Ceramic Biennale in Korea, the Beijing Art Triennial in China, and the World Ceramic Triennial in Zagreb. With his artistic journey spanning the globe, Daroz’s work embodies a deep understanding of the craft and its expressive possibilities.
Reflecting on his artistic journey, Daroz expresses his love for the potter’s wheel, stating, “Wheel-thrown forms of pottery remain my first love as around five decades back, I began my clay journey with a potter’s wheel.” The ‘100 Bowls exhibit provides him with a delightful opportunity to revisit his roots and showcase his exceptional skill on behalf of People For Animals, an organisation dedicated to animal welfare.
The conceptual depth of his artwork, Daroz explains the metaphoric significance of the juxtaposition of two circular walls in his bowls. The outer wall, with its rhythmic contours, textured surfaces, and fluidity, represents our external self, constantly interacting with the world around us. In contrast, the inner circle stands composed, embracing all external movements and symbolising our inner self. This interplay between the two circles resonates with the traditional Indian worldview, where the simultaneous and integral nature of existence is celebrated. Daroz’s vessels transcend their utilitarian function, transforming into objects of pure visual delight, observed through the lens of a sculptor in an expressionist manner.
This collaboration between PFA and Daroz exemplifies PFA’s commitment to promoting diverse art forms and bringing them into the public eye. Throughout the years, PFA has pioneered numerous art exhibitions, reviving forgotten art forms and showcasing a rich tapestry of artistic expressions. By presenting exhibitions featuring British lithographs, Raja Ravi Varma oleographs, antique paintings, and hand-blown glasses, PFA has continuously expanded the horizons of artistic appreciation.
Maneka Sanjay Gandhi, Chairperson of PFA, emphasises the democratisation of art, asserting that art should not be confined to canvases or limited to a select few. PFA introduces a delightful and accessible way to appreciate art, where artistic creations extend beyond museum walls and become integral to daily life. Previous offerings by PFA, including art-woven carpets and ceramic platters, have witnessed tremendous success and garnered significant demand. With the support of India’s artists and generous sponsors, PFA continues to champion animal welfare through its artistic endeavours.
The ‘100 Bowls’ exhibit will take place at The Lalit Hotel on Barakhamba Road, New Delhi, from August 4 to August 6’23
Feature Image courtesy: mint
