Curated by Sushma K. Bahl at NGMA by Gaurav Kumar
In the enchanting realm of art, where narratives were woven, histories recounted, and voices echoed through canvas and sculpture alike, the Museum of Sacred Art (MOSA) in collaboration with the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) proudly presented the resplendent exhibition, “Shakti: Fair and Fierce.” Curated by the discerning eye of Art Advisor and curator Sushma K. Bahl with input from NGMA Curator Meghna Vyas Arora, this exhibition stood as a beacon, celebrating the brilliance, resilience, and indomitable spirit of women artists from India.
From the moment one stepped into the gallery space, palpable energy permeated the air, echoing the essence of “Shakti” – power, strength, and dynamism. Over thirty-five contemporary women artists, alongside traditional embroidery artists from diverse corners of India, converged to present a captivating narrative of empowerment and creativity. It was a celebration not just of art but of the women who wielded their creativity as a force for change. The Shakti exhibition was structured into three distinct sections: “Voice & Vision,” “Threading Thoughts,” and “Myth & Mystique.”
Voice & Vision: A Symphony of Empowerment
In the enchanting realm of artistic expression, the “Voice & Vision” section of Shakti: Fair and Fierce emerged as a vibrant tapestry, woven with diverse narratives and perspectives, celebrating the boundless creativity and empowerment of women. Within this evolving landscape, the artworks served as conduits for the feminine voice and vision, capturing a kaleidoscope of human experiences, dreams, and ambitions.
Through the inclusive lens of the feminine gaze, the exhibition offered a platform for women to articulate their struggles, triumphs, and aspirations. It became a sanctuary for self-expression, dialogue, and solidarity, bridging the gap between the oft-overlooked works of women artists and the broader public consciousness.
The collection showcased a myriad of genres, styles, and materials, each echoing the unique voices and visions of women artists from across India. Many of these works, carefully curated from the collection of the Belgium-based Museum of Sacred Art (MOSA), offered glimpses into the evolving socio-cultural landscape through multimedia and vibrant hues.
Notable among the featured artists were Arpana Caur, Kanchan Chander, Seema Kohli, and Radha Gomaty, whose evocative pieces delved into feminist perspectives with boldness and beauty. From Chander’s kitsch sculptures challenging the male gaze to Kohli’s multi-media explorations of creation and procreation, each artwork served as a testament to the resilience and complexity of the feminine spirit.
Photographic art by Saadiya Kochar shed light on the struggles of women in strife-torn societies, amplifying their voices against violence and oppression. Through powerful imagery, these works captured moments of defiance and resilience, igniting a chorus for equity and peace.
Beyond mere depictions of sensuality and sexuality, the feminist art collection delved into the psychological and spiritual realms, connecting the feminine form to nature and the cosmos. Themes of communal clashes, environmental degradation, and societal injustices resonated deeply, urging viewers to contemplate the broader implications of gender inequality and social upheaval.
This section of the display resonated with the resounding chorus of women’s empowerment. Through a kaleidoscope of mediums and perspectives, artists amplified their voices, offering a glimpse into their unique visions of the world. From bold strokes of paint to intricate sculptures, each creation served as a testament to the power of artistic expression to challenge norms and inspire change.
As visitors journeyed through this section of the exhibition, they were enveloped in a tapestry of narratives, each more compelling than the last. From the timeless elegance of traditional forms to the bold experimentation of contemporary art, the diversity of voices on display reflected the rich tapestry of female creativity.
Here, artists confronted societal injustices head-on, shining a light on issues such as gender discrimination, sexual exploitation, and marginalization. Through their art, they reclaimed their agency, asserting their right to be seen and heard in a world that too often sought to silence them.
Ultimately, Shakti: Fair and Fierce transcended the confines of traditional gender roles, presenting women as multifaceted beings capable of navigating diverse domains with grace and strength. As symbols of feminine generosity and resilience, the women depicted in these artworks embodied the essence of Shakti herself, standing as beacons of empowerment and inspiration in a world striving for equality and justice.
Threading Thoughts: Liberation Through Creativity
In the “Threading Thoughts” section, the exhibition delved into the transformative power of art to liberate the mind and spirit. Through the delicate art of embroidery and the bold strokes of a paintbrush, women artists wove together threads of resilience and self-discovery, carving out a space for themselves in a world that too often sought to confine them.
From traditional embroidery techniques passed down through generations to cutting-edge digital creations, each artwork in this section tells a story of liberation and empowerment. Through their creations, artists broke free from societal expectations, challenging gender norms and forging new paths forward.
Through diverse mediums and genres, these visionary artists found their footing, charting their course amidst a sea of challenges. From minimalist imagery to multimedia installations, digital creations, and intricate embroideries, each creation served as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the feminine.
Radha Gomaty’s poignant depiction of domestic life challenged traditional gender norms, while Shobha Broota’s fusion of painting and embroidery offered a mesmerizing exploration of duality. Seema Kohli’s collaborative works with weavers and embroiderers celebrated tradition while embracing innovation, echoing the timeless dance of life’s contrasts.
In the embrace of tradition, artists like Arpana Caur and Sangeeta Gupta paid homage to heritage, infusing their creations with the essence of centuries-old traditions. Their works spoke of universal principles, transcending boundaries of time and space to touch the very core of human experience.
Young talents like Keerti Pooja and Sonal Varshneya offered glimpses into personal journeys, capturing the essence of womanhood in its myriad forms. Their artworks served as windows into intimate moments and shared experiences, threading together the fabric of familial bonds and emotional connections.
In the realm of abstraction, Sujata Bajaj and Brinda Miller drew inspiration from ritual traditions, their vibrant compositions echoing the rhythms of life itself. Through calligraphic interventions and symbolic imagery, they invited viewers to contemplate the cyclical nature of existence.
Venturing into the realm of technology, artists like Lumena Charuvi Agarwal, Richa Navani, and Nivedita Mishra redefined the boundaries of artistic expression. From multimedia installations to video art and sculptural innovations, they broke free from conventional constraints, daring to challenge the status quo with their bold creativity.
In the symphony of liberation, these women artists stood as beacons of resilience, their creations weaving together the threads of past and present, tradition and innovation. Through their art, they transcended barriers, extending the reach of their voices far beyond the confines of space and time, inspiring generations to come.
Here, visitors were invited to explore the intricate connections between art and identity, as artists navigated the complexities of womanhood in a rapidly changing world. Through their creativity, they reclaimed their narratives, asserting their right to define themselves on their own terms.
Myth & Mystique: Exploring Ancient Narratives
In “Myth & Mystique,” the exhibition invited visitors to embark on a journey through ancient narratives and sacred histories to weave tales of socio-cultural significance and aesthetic beauty. Drawing inspiration from mythological epics and divine iconography, women artists reinterpreted timeless stories through a contemporary lens, offering fresh perspectives on age-old themes women artists embarked on a journey through time and space. Each stroke of their brush, each sculpted form, and every multimedia creation served as a portal to the divine, inviting viewers to delve deeper into the mysteries of existence.
From celestial beings to earthly goddesses, each artwork in this section embodied the essence of myth and mystique, inviting viewers to explore the depths of the human psyche and the mysteries of the cosmos. Through their creations, artists bridged the gap between past and present, connecting us to our shared cultural heritage while also challenging us to reimagine the future.
Jayasri Burman’s ethereal watercolour painting transported us to the celestial realm, where Shri Krishna, atop a venomous serpent, symbolized the eternal struggle between good and evil. Meanwhile, Shanthamani Muddaiah’s charcoal installations delved into primordial realms, exploring the delicate balance between strength and fragility, sensuality and desire.
Richa Navani’s mixed media series delved into the tragic tale of Draupadi, using cowries and shells to symbolize the complexities of gender politics and sexuality. In contrast, Charuvi Agarwal’s Lumena installation channelled the transformative power of Kundalini Shakti, infusing the space with the serenity of Kali and the wisdom of the divine feminine.
Arpana Caur’s multimedia installations offered a contemporary reinterpretation of ancient myths, advocating for equality and equanimity in a world plagued by inequality and injustice. Meanwhile, Madhvi Parekh’s exploration of biblical themes challenged traditional gender norms, offering a fresh perspective on timeless narratives.
Beyond the confines of mythology, women artists drew inspiration from the natural world, personifying Mother Earth as a benevolent goddess and championing environmental conservation through their art. Their works served as a powerful reminder of humanity’s interconnectedness with nature and the urgent need for collective action to preserve the planet for future generations.
In the face of gender subjugation and societal inequality, women artists continued to challenge the status quo, demanding recognition and respect for their contributions to art and society. Through their creativity and resilience, they paved the way for a more inclusive and equitable world, where the voices of women were heard and celebrated.
As the Shakti: Fair and Fierce art project illustrated, the tide was turning, with governments, private enterprises, and social networks rallying behind the cause of women’s empowerment. By embracing women’s art as a vital part of our cultural heritage, we honoured the diverse perspectives and experiences that enriched our collective human story.
Here, visitors were transported to a world of wonder and enchantment, where the boundaries between reality and myth blurred and the possibilities were endless. Through their art, women artists invited us to embrace the magic of storytelling and the power of imagination to transform our lives and our world.
The curation of the exhibition was a masterful symphony, orchestrated by Sushma K. Bahl, seamlessly blending the works of seasoned artists with those of emerging stars. The selection spanned a rich tapestry of media, from the strokes of a paintbrush to the intricacies of textile embroidery, offering visitors a dynamic perspective on India’s artistic landscape.
Among the featured artists were luminaries such as Arpana Caur, Madhvi Parekh, and Seema Kohli, whose evocative works evoked a sense of timelessness and introspection. Yet, it was equally thrilling to discover the fresh perspectives of emerging talents like Charuvi Aggarwal and Puja Mondal, who infused the exhibition with youthful vigour and contemporary relevance.
In the catalogue, Sushma K. Bahl asserted, “Several female artists had successfully liberated themselves and threaded their thoughts together to carve out a niche for their art. They commanded space, appreciation, and recognition for their work, be it in minimalist imagery coded in a colourful palette, large multimedia installations, digital creations, or as embroideries in threads that liberated the women from their confined roles and inhibited thoughts”.
A highlight of the exhibition was the monumental triptych, “The Last Supper,” by Madhvi Parekh, a poignant masterpiece crafted especially for this occasion. Parekh’s evocative portrayal invited contemplation on themes of tradition, modernity, and the evolving role of women in society.
In addition to paintings and sculptures, the exhibition paid homage to India’s rich embroidery traditions, showcasing works from diverse regions such as Chamba Rumal, Kantha, and Rabari. These intricate creations served as a testament to the cultural diversity and artistic heritage of India, adding a profound layer of depth to the celebration of “Shakti.”
As one journeyed through the gallery, each artwork became a chapter in the story of women’s creativity and resilience. From the bold experimentation of contemporary art to the timeless elegance of traditional forms, “Shakti: Fair and Fierce” offered a kaleidoscopic view of India’s artistic prowess.
Among the myriad captivating works showcased at the Shakti exhibition, my most cherished pieces were:
- Nivedita Mishra’s “Sapt Matika,” 2023, Wood and Bronze, 229 x 106 x 106 cm.
- Seema Kohli’s “Vaishnavi,” 2017, Bronze, 47 x 43 x 25 cm.
- Charuvi Agrawal’s “Lumena,” 2023, Glass, Sculpture, 305 x 152 cm.
- Jayasri Burman’s “Horo Parboti,” 2008, Bronze, 111 x 86 x 38 cm.
- Seema Kohli’s “Tree of Life,” 2023, Silk, Cotton Thread, Beads, and Sequins on Untreated Canvas, 140 x 110 cm.
- Madhvi Parekh’s “Last Supper,” 2020, Acrylic on Canvas, 122 x 366 cm.
- Jahan Ara’s “Tree of Life,” Sozni Needlework by Staple Thread, Pashmina, 187 x 102 cm.
- Ayesha Bhat’s “Kongposh,” Sozni Needlework by Staple Thread, Pashmina, 220 x 110 cm.
- Putli Das’s “Village Scenery,” Embroidery on Tussar Silk, Kantha, 117 x 97 cm.
- Majnu’s “Geet Govind,” Commercial Silk Floss on Fine Cotton, Chamba Rumal, 106 x 101 cm.
- Sarupaba Madhubha Sodha’s “Masterpiece,” Kutch Embroideries, Maroon Silk, Pakko, Neran, Kharek, Kambhiri, 131 x 98 cm.
- Arpana Caur’s “Day & Night,” 2011, Oil on Canvas, 182 x 274 cm.
- Mita Pal’s “Tree of Life,” Embroidery on Tussar Silk, Kantha, 235 x 114 cm.
- Charuvi Agrawal’s “Eterna,” 2023, LED Screen, Digital Art, 145 x 83 x 4 cm.
I was drawn to these artworks because they eloquently embodied the essence of womanhood, offering a profound glimpse into the artists’ authentic expressions and their unique perspectives on contemporary art and society. In contemporary society, Shakti continued to endure the shackles of rigid gender constructs, discrimination, sexual exploitation, marginalization, and violence, echoing the struggles faced not only in India but across cultures and nations worldwide. Despite commendable efforts by the state and women’s collectives to rectify these injustices, the patriarchal paradigm persisted, reinforcing the privileged status of men in society and perpetuating the dominance of the male gaze.
In this poignant context, the art exhibition “Shakti: Fair and Fierce” emerged as a poignant call to action, advocating for women’s inclusion and equity in every sphere of society. Through the transformative power of art, it invited contemplation and introspection, challenging prevailing norms and inspiring collective efforts towards a more just and equitable world.
In conclusion, “Shakti: Fair and Fierce” was not merely an exhibition; it was a celebration of womanhood, creativity, and empowerment. Through the visionary curation of Sushma K. Bahl, the exhibition transcended boundaries, inviting visitors to embark on a journey of discovery and inspiration. It was a testament to the enduring legacy of women in shaping culture, society, and humanity itself.
The exhibition will persist, with its next destination slated for May to June 2024 at the National Gallery of Modern Art in Mumbai. Following this, it will embark on a journey to the MOSA galleries in Radhadesh, Belgium, from June 2025 to January 2026, and hopefully in other venues in Europe and the world.
Read More>> Please Subscribe our Physical MagazineExhibition Title: Shakti: Fair and Fierce
Presented by: Museum of Sacred Art (MOSA) in collaboration with the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA)
Curator: Sushma K. Bahl with input from NGMA Curator Meghna Vyas Arora
Participating Artists: Arpana Caur, Ayesha Bhat, Brinda Miller, Charuvi Agarwal, Goraben Uga Meghwar, Iva Rani, Jahan Ara, Jayasri Burman, Jivaben Rupa Rabari, Jubedaben Ashraf Jat, Jyoti Bala, Kanchan Chander, Kauben Rava Rabari, Keerti Pooja, Laluben Pura Meghwar, Madhvi Parekh, Manju, Masto Devi, Meera Mishra, Mita Pal, Nabla Begum, Nivedita Mishra, Prabhawati, Puja Mondal, Putul Das, Radha Gomaty, Reeta Devi, Richa Navani, Rifat Bhat, Saadiya Kochar, Sabita Sutradhar, Sangeeta Gupta, Sanju Devi, Saritaben Mohan Rabari, Sarupaba Madhubha Sodha, Savita Kumari, Savitri Devi, Seema Kohli, Shanthamani Muddaiah, Shikha Kunda, Shobha Broota, Sonal Varshneya, Sujata Bajaj, Syed Rubina, Tulshi, Vibha Pathak
Duration: 4 February – 31 March 2024
Location: National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi
