FOR ART THAT MATTERS
Some of the best art by more than 70 galleries from India and abroad is on display here
Asplish-splash of colours, a mishmash of ideas and an exploration of new techniques in old mediums and new — the artworks at the ongoing India Art Fair (IAF) 2020 are all this and more. In addition, there are interactive sessions, a book cafe and performancearts, to bring the spotlight on the dramatics in arts.
The 12th edition of the fair has 75 exhibitors (galleries and institutions), 70% of which are Indian, to represent the region’s art scene. And among the international participants, exhibitors such as David Zwirner gallery, Aicon Gallery and Grosvenor Gallery are making a comeback, and Saskia Fernando Gallery, Gallery Tableau and Marc Straus Gallery will debut this year.
What this fair is known for are the quirky artworks that sprout up every year. Jagdip Jagpal, fair director, IAF, says there’ll be enough of such elements this year, too, as “iconic artists as well as a series of talks, workshops and live performances” make their way to the fair.
Jagpal adds, “Our performance-art programme is very popular. It’s a visual spectacle and draws audiences from all backgrounds and ages. At the 2020 fair, visitors can expect to catch powerful performances by some of the leading names –– Jelili Atiku, Maya Krishna Rao, Raisa Kabir and Piyali Ghosh –– who address socio-political issues in a simple yet impactful way.”
A photography exhibition titled My Kolkata in Kolkata — a mélange of images evoking the spirit of the city — will be set-up by Kolkata Centre for Creativity. As part of their accessibility programme, the centre’s showcase will also carry an experiential zone based on the works of the iconic Indian painter, Jogen Chowdhury.
So, from Paresh Maity’s large canvas on Dandi March
Catch It Live
What: India Art Fair 2020 Where: NSIC Grounds, Okhla On Till: February 2
to Ranbir Kaleka and Rameshwar Broota’s huge canvases done in oil, and Gigi Scaria’s bronze work Around the Corner, there’ll be enough to pause, ponder and praise!
Henna Rakheja
Timing: 10am to 7pm Nearest Metro Station: Govindpuri on Violet Line, Okhla NSIC on Magenta Line