Introduction
The Art House at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) has undergone a stunning transformation, shedding its Instagram-friendly red walls for a stark white palette. The latest exhibit, ‘POP: FAME, LOVE AND POWER,’ curated by the acclaimed Lawrence Van Hagen, promises to take audiences on a historical journey through the golden years of the iconic Pop Art movement.
The Vision Behind ‘POP’: A First of its Kind in India
Isha Ambani, the visionary behind the Cultural Centre, expresses her excitement about the exhibit fulfilling its promise of bringing the best of international art experiences to India. ‘POP’ is not just a showcase of the incredible legacy of Pop Art; it also exudes an unmistakable sense of fun. Ambani is particularly thrilled about the exhibition resonating with younger audiences, fostering a culture of creativity with inspirations that transcend time and space.
Forbes India Sneak Peek: Exploring the Four-Floor Exhibit
Forbes India was granted an exclusive sneak peek into the four-floor exhibit, where each level is dedicated to the themes of Fame, Love, and Power. The final floor promises a silver balloon-filled immersive Andy Warhol experience, highlighting the playful side of Pop Art.
Curator’s Insight: Lawrence Van Hagen on the Significance of ‘POP’
In an interview with Forbes India, Lawrence Van Hagen, the curator, emphasizes the significance of ‘POP: FAME, LOVE AND POWER.’ He describes it as his most important exhibition to date and the first non-commercial one. The exhibit features works by 12 iconic American Pop Art pioneers, including luminaries such as Roy Lichtenstein, Andy Warhol, and Robert Rauschenberg.
Choosing Pop Art for Mumbai: A Perfect Fit for All Audiences
Van Hagen explains the thought process behind selecting Pop Art, citing its universal appeal and ability to resonate with both art enthusiasts and those encountering the genre for the first time. The movement’s relevance for the Indian audience aligns with Isha Ambani’s vision of making art exciting and relevant, especially for the youth.
Behind the Scenes: Curating the Exhibition in India
The curator sheds light on the challenges faced while curating a show of this caliber in India. He details the careful selection of themes—Fame, Love, and Power—and the subsequent focus on American Pop Art, making it the first survey of its kind in South-east Asia. Van Hagen also expresses gratitude for the support received from the Art House, the Cultural Centre, and Isha Ambani.
Personal Highlights: Monumental Sculptures and Interactive Installations
Van Hagen shares his personal highlights from the exhibit, including a monumental sculpture by the husband-wife duo Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen. The exhibit features an immersive Andy Warhol experience titled ‘Silver Clouds,’ created in collaboration with the Andy Warhol Museum, adding a touch of fun and interactivity.
Educating and Inspiring: A Vision for the Youth
Aligning with Isha Ambani’s vision of educating and inspiring the youth, the exhibit incorporates various learning moments. Cabinets on the final floor showcase not only original paintings but also photographs, letters, and poems by the artists. The goal is to immerse visitors in the world of Pop Art, allowing them to understand the artists’ backgrounds and perspectives.
A Collaborative Effort: Working with the Cultural Centre
Van Hagen expresses his gratitude for the collaborative effort with the Cultural Centre, highlighting the trusting relationship built with Isha Ambani and her team. Despite the challenges, the curator commends the collective effort that has resulted in a transformative exhibition, marking a significant milestone for both the Cultural Centre and the Indian art scene.
‘POP: FAME, LOVE AND POWER’ – A Landmark Exhibition in Mumbai
As the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre opens its doors to ‘POP: FAME, LOVE AND POWER,’ Mumbai prepares to embark on a journey through the vibrant and impactful world of American Pop Art. Lawrence Van Hagen’s curation promises an immersive experience, blending history, emotion, and a splash of colour, making this exhibition a landmark moment in the cultural landscape of the city.
Feature Image: Reliance Industries’s Isha Ambani and art curator Lawrence Van Hagen have put together a first-of-its-kind exhibition on American Pop Art in South-East Asia, featuring Andy Warhol and other greats. Courtesy: Forbes
Vaishnavi Srivastava is a learning writer, a keen researcher and a literature enthusiast. She is a Sub-editor at Abir Pothi.
