Unity in diversity
Bringing together five young and creative minds, an upcoming exhibition titled “Peers 2013” by Khoj Studios will display some interesting works ranging from a hanging installations made of ribbons and blades to videos depicting Delhi’s political power struggle versus a commoner’s life.
Drawing inspiration from the streets of Delhi, artist Niyati Upadhya shares, “I am interested in contemporary, urban street culture and that has led me to observe and document the lifestyle of various kinds of craft-workers. During my time at Khoj, I tried to explore similar themes from Kathputli colony at Shadipur Depot. I interacted with a slew of Shadipur-based singers, puppeteers, magicians and acrobats and spent my time documenting their work, lives and their homes.”
Another participant Pratik Bhattacharya actively makes use of a variety of media including paintings, multimedia and interactive installations. Pratik has made a video installation titled The Presence of Absence that skillfully captures images of the narrow and activity-laden bylanes of Khirkee Extension. Simultaneously, he will also show drawings depicting the socio-economic disparity that exists in Delhi. “I wanted to portray the contrast within Delhi — a city of the rich and the elite and the life in the narrow and shady lanes of Khirkee Extension.”
Juhikadevi Bhanjdeo has worked with ribbons and blades to create a large installation that hangs from the studio ceiling. She says, “I chose ribbons and blades to portray both the softness and harshness in a girl’s life. From a distance, the work looks like a feminine, white structure, but when you go closer, you see the sharp blades and therein lies the contrast.”
Pooja Sood, director, Khoj says, “This show is aimed to encourage the young artists to move out of the physical environs of the studios and explore the area and its community.”
The show will be on at Khoj Studios, Khirkee Extension from June 19 to June 21, 11 am to 7 pm
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