Voices of women compels us to participate in a world where incredible women artists are striving for a more inclusive and vibrant art world, writes SAKSHI PRIYA
Imagine a space where each wall whispers a story, a world that is painted not on spatial maps but on timeless canvases. This is the essence of the ‘Voices of Women,’ an art exhibition recently presented by Art Garde in a vibrant celebration of contemporary art by women artists. It was a testament to the flourishing creativity of these artists, each with a unique voice yearning to be heard. It was indeed a captivating display curated by Teesta Bhandare, where we were invited into the vibrant world of young and contemporary women artists.
Showcasing a diverse range of artwork, this exhibition, held earlier this month, showcased the talent and creativity of emerging and mid-career artists from across India. It was a testament to the increasing presence and influence of women on the art scene. While equal representation between men and women artists is still a work in progress, platforms like ‘Voices of Women’ play a crucial role in addressing this disparity and providing a space for women to underscore their creativity.
Each stroke, each hue, whispered a story untold, drawing the one’s attention to a world where art is not just seen but felt, where every canvas is a portal to a soulful journey. Clearly, the exhibition was a testament to the evolving role of women in the art world, a world where their voices resonate with increasing clarity and power. The show also shed light on the growing trend of women collectors, who are now collecting more art than men, further emphasising the importance of platforms like this in promoting women artists.
Each piece of art in the exhibition narrates a unique and compelling story, the diverse perspectives of women artists brought together in perfect symphony.
Neha Luthra’s paintings, such as “Dol ka bar and Sambhar Lakes,’ painted in oil, depict her emotional connection to the places she has been to and experienced. Her artwork is the essence of these locations, conveying their beauty and ecological significance.
Astha Patel’s works, including ‘Treepies Dancing Around Falling Bauhineas,’ ‘Celocias’ and a Wild Avian,’ and ‘Butterscotch Light and Wild Fields,’ are inspired by her environment and daily experiences. Her paintings often feature Bohemian flowers and birds, illuminated by moonlight, creating a sense of magic and tranquility. One of the paintings represents a place near Vadodara, in Gujarat, which highlights the ever-changing landscape and the constant presence of jungle babblers. These paintings evoke a sense of wonder and appreciation for the beauty nature has in store.
Tanushree Sarkar’s works explore themes of emotional intimacy and human connection. Her painting, ‘Skin is Red - Half Women Half Dream,’ done in oil, portrays bold and intimate moments, inviting us viewers to reflect on the complexity of human relationships. Another one, ‘A Whirlwind Ahead,’ depicts two figures intertwining with each other and nature, symbolizing harmony and the building of a shared future. Sarkar’s art challenges conventional notions of beauty and encourages viewers to embrace their own unique bodies and identities.
‘The Power of Braille’ by Vijaya Chauhan, inspired by her experiences with visually impaired friends, is an artist’s courageous exploration of the Braille text. This thought-provoking work challenges societal norms, highlighting alternative notions of sight and communication. By using Braille as a point of departure, Chauhan demonstrates the beauty and power of alternative forms of expression, reminding us that sight is not the only way to experience and understand the world.
‘Voices of Women’ had more to it than mere aesthetics. It contained a powerful challenge to stereotypes perpetuated of yore, when a female artist was confined to the realm of the decorative. Here, even as Tanushree Sarkar explores themes of body consciousness and sexuality Vijaya Chauhan’s works redefine our very perspective on what sight symbolises.
The exhibition did not simply present diverse representations of women artists, it also broke the stereotypes and shackles on the art women create. It was a platform for young collectors to discover and acquire art that resonates with the common onlooker, making art accessible and meaningful to a wider audience.
Malavika Rajnarayan, Ekta Singha, Maitreyi Desai, and Sareena Khemka, among others also scripted their unique perspectives on their canvas, enriching the exhibition with some exceptional artwork. The exhibition brought forth and celebrated the creativity and resilience of women artists, challenging traditional notions of art and beauty.
In a conversation with a Curator Teesta Bhandare highlighted the importance of diversity in representation, stating that the exhibition aims to show the wide range of styles and themes women artists can explore. She also emphasized the challenge of educating people about the value of art as a cultural investment, urging visitors to see art as an integral part of their cultural identity.
Through the Voices of Women series, women artists were not simply heard but also felt -- in every stroke, in every hue, in every narrative. The exhibition left people with a profound appreciation for the resilience of women artists, delicately nudging them and their unique perspectives into the spotlight. As one stepped out of this magical realm of creativity, one was enriched by the lessons learnt and insights gained. These incredible artists are striving for a more inclusive and vibrant art world. We must join them in this endeavour.
