Artistic Ascent: Cultivate genius and court fame through your craft

In a bold and transformative wave, the Indian art scene has been invigorated by a remarkable surge of talented painters and artists. These visionary individuals have transcended traditional gender roles and societal expectations to forge a new path of artistic excellence. With their special talent and unwavering determination, women too redefined the artistic landscape and shattered the chains of patriarchy in the process.

Indian artists like Amrita Sher-Gil, Arpita Singh, Bharti Kher, Nalini Malani, just to mention a few names, have not only expressed their voices through art but also brought to the forefront important social issues, promoting inclusivity and gender equality.

Prepare to be inspired as we delve deep into the current art scene and loop in an Art Facilitator, Ms Kanika Goel from Apeejay School International, Panchsheel Park for the discussion. She says, “I was a Science student in class XII who worked hard to build a portfolio and apply to an art college with no plans of doing so in the first place. After this, I secured the 3^rd position in the entrance exam for College of Arts, Delhi University. So, I dropped everything to pursue it. This was followed by a Master’s degree in Fine Arts, several art exhibits and shows.”

During the conversation, Ms Goel recalled how she began painting in class II and attended all art-based competitions in her school. At present, most of her artworks include impasto, a technique used in painting, where paint is laid on an area of the surface thickly, usually thick enough that the brush or painting-knife strokes are visible. In addition to this, she is experimenting with textile, charcoal, acrylic and stitching combined into one.

According to her, we are at present, living in a more accepting and open society, therefore, now is the right time to leverage art as a profession.

Edited excerpts from the interview.   

What is the contemporary Indian art scene looking like?

There has been a big change in terms of recognition being given to women artists at the national as well as the global level. As of today, not just women from good educational, social or cultural backgrounds but even those from small villages and towns are getting the opportunities necessary to reach recognised stages. However, there is still a lot to discover. Many non-governmental organisations are aiding the process too. Artists Reena Saini Kallat, Madhvi Parekh, Arpita Singh, Mithu Sen, Anju Dodiya are some names students should know about. Their works are truly awe-inspiring!

When did women come on top in the Indian art world?

The contribution of Amrita Sher-Gil, often hailed as India’s Frida Kahlo, left a lasting impression. She was a trailblazer in the realm of modern Indian art. Sher-Gil fused different cultural influences to create powerful and evocative paintings. Her works portrayed the lives of rural Indian women, addressing their struggles and capturing their emotions with profound sensitivity. That was a game changer! Not only did she challenge prevailing conventions but paved the way for a more inclusive and diverse art narrative. She is truly ‘one of the greatest avant-garde women artists of the early 20th century’.

Before her, women were mostly used as ‘objects of adoration’ who were to be looked at from a ‘male eye’. They were represented only for their beauty and sensuality. This shift towards their expressions, emotions, backgrounds and identities was forged by Sher-Gil. Therefore, I strongly feel that role models like these can inspire young students to think beyond the ordinary.

An inspiring work you encountered recently?

I came across Mrinalini Mukherjee’s work as part of which she uses the female form to make a sculpture. She is known for her distinctly contemporary style and use of dyed and woven hemp fibre, an unconventional material for sculpting. Further, she adds a unique Indian touch to it which is a statement.

According to you, the most exemplary painting till now?

‘Three Girls’ by Sher-Gil which represents women of colour. The simplicity of our culture is showcased in the painting. The balance of colours highlights the emotions of women in it. A very sorrowful and intense moment seems to have been captured by Sher-Gil. It is one of my favourites.

In class, how do you encourage students to build change?

I motivate my students to read World Art History as it will give them an opportunity to explore how the scenario of art changed overtime and where we have come from.

For instance, Paula Rego, Portuguese-British visual artist spent much of her career focusing on women’s rights and abortion rights. She was a critic of the anti-abortion movement and so, she used the theme of abortion as a focal point in much of her art. She exposed the subject beautifully and the idea left a big mark on the world.

To cite another example, the Indian artist, Bharti Kher’s multidisciplinary art practice has redefined notions of identity and tradition. Known for her distinctive use of bindis, Kher explores themes of femininity, spirituality, and cultural identity. Her captivating installations and sculptures challenge preconceived notions, questioning the rigidity of societal norms and gender roles.

Therefore, in my view, students should become aware of their socio-political scenario and try to convey in art what words fail to capture.

Art and activism goes hand-in-hand. Do you advise it?

In school, students must not get caught up in it because this is a time for them to learn. I advise being aware and adopting balanced viewpoints. Besides, today, we have great opportunities and exposure, all the galleries and biennales from the world can come alive on our devices, so there is a responsibility to take something out of it. 

What are the popular mediums of art right now?

Digital mediums are quite in vogue. But that doesn’t mean that older forms such as paintings are being replaced by it. Now, more and more artists are adopting mix mediums as well as giving a twist to the older ones.

For those wanting to pursue a career in art, what are the opportunities?

The Indian art scene is quite rewarding. At present, the fashion and animation industries are big and they want artistic talent. Not very long ago, French couture house Christian Dior kicked off Paris fashion week with an in-person runway show. What stood apart were beautiful installations that were created in collaboration with The Chanakya School of Craft, an Indian non-profit founded by Monica Shah and Karishma Swali. The non-governmental organisation is known for empowering women artisans.

How does the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum encourage art?

The curriculum does not require students to craft a masterpiece every time they sit to create something. Rather, it is more about the personal journey of the student as well as the research and understanding they gathered along the way. The idea and process is to get one a good portfolio in IB. It is the skills and how one has acquired it that really counts. The Board seeks to know more about the learner than the end-product.