Art maybe a concept that captures the essence of the realities of the world to some, while to others it maybe an important investment —– either way art has touched the lives of many across ages and genders and is even roping in young buyers.
With galleries open to promoting new artists and the downturn in the market it is the right time for younger artists to showcase their work. Harish Kumar who is an artist himself and is currently the curator of Abstract Art Gallery in Bengaluru believes it’s important to let the youth know more about collecting and buying art. “We realise that young artists and youngsters who appreciate art may suffer from financial demons. This is why I believe in tying-up with big brands and using galleries for exhibitions. This provides a stage for young promising artists to start off with. Many 30-year-olds are showing an interest in buying art. But I still feel we have a long way to go,” he says.
His wife Sujata Sah Sejekan, an artist herself, considers that there has been quite an evolution in the art market. “Galleries make a lot of effort with workshops and exhibitions to promote all kinds of artists. There’s a lot more pressure when you’re young and without the endeavors of the galleries nothing would be possible” she adds.
Art can speak for itself and drawing in a particular kind of a crowd is not how it works according to Shalini Biswajit, curator of the Forum Art Gallery in Chennai. “Our clientele has always been diverse. We’ve had dance performances, music recitals, play readings — all of which are based on the theme of the exhibition. The younger, digital-savvy crowd is obviously inclined to affordable art but we host a variety of exhibitions some of which even cater to a first time collector.”
Art galleries across the country have come up with initiatives to attract younger crowds. The Marvel Art Gallery in Ahmedabad has come up with a distinctive EMI scheme to encourage young art buyers who otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford classic paintings. These proposals by galleries in India would surely help take the culture of art to a whole new level and keep the legacies of art appreciation going.