A LATITUDE 28 Trilogy: Medium, Manifestation and Manipulation

CURATORIAL NOTE

Medium, Manifestation and Manipulation is the latest exhibition in LATITUDE 28’s trilogy, a series dedicated to showcasing emerging visual artists from across India. This exhibition aims to diversify the art landscape by highlighting innovative approaches to medium and material. The participating artists challenge traditional techniques, using unconventional materials and methods to create compelling narratives.

Chetan Solanki’s poignant exploration of loss unfolds in a tapestry of vibrant hues and intricate details. His mosaic, rooted in the rich traditions of Indian miniature art and mural painting, offer a visual requiem for the world’s myriad losses. Through his evocative depictions of birds, both endangered and extinct, Solanki weaves together personal and ecological narratives. His works invite the viewer to look at the fragility of life, the weight of loss, and the interconnectedness of all beings. Solanki’s use of natural materials and traditional techniques serves as a testament to his reverence for the past. By incorporating elements like handmade floor tiles, he pays homage to his cultural heritage and the importance of preserving our connection to the natural world. Solanki’s exhibition is more than just a collection of mosaics. It serves as a stark reminder of the need to cherish and protect what we have before it is too late.

Damayanti Debnath’s tapestries of paint and textile reflect into a world of layered emotions and complex narratives. Her work, a visual exploration of pressing social and environmental issues, provokes contemplation and introspection. With a poetic and tactile approach, Damayanti employs a visual language bespeak to the complexities of human experience. Layers of cloth and stitching, inherited from generations of women in her community, serve as a metaphor for the multifaceted nature of storytelling. Her practice aims to provoke thought, inspire change, and foster a deeper connection between viewers and the artwork. By engaging with her work, audiences are encouraged to rethink their own perspectives and consider the impact of their actions on the world.

Meghna Singh Patpatia’’s intricate artwork unravels to contemplate the delicate balance between nature and human existence. Her paintings, rendered on handmade paper and textile, capture the essence of geological formations and celestial phenomena, weaving together mythical creatures and natural elements into a harmonious tapestry. Her exploration of mixed media, including glass and found objects, creates textured surfaces that evoke the fragility of our environment. Her patterns and designs reflect the constant adaptation required to thrive in a changing world, reminding us of the interconnectedness of all living things. Patpatia’s artistic journey is marked by a deep appreciation for the natural world and a commitment to preserving its beauty. Her work ponders upon our place within the cosmos and to cherish the delicate ecosystems that sustain us.

Beyond their individual styles and themes, the artists in “Medium: Manifestation and Manipulation” share a common desire to push the boundaries of their medium. By experimenting with various materials and techniques, they create works that are both visually striking and intellectually stimulating. The exhibition offers a platform for these emerging artists to share their unique perspectives and contribute to the evolving landscape of visual art. It also serves as a reminder of the power of art to challenge conventions, provoke thought, and inspire change.

-Text by Manan Shah