Art to the rescue: Zooming in on Covid relief
An artwork is often a window to an artist’s creative world, but amid a pandemic, these very pieces can turn into a source of strength for those in need. This is the idea behind Forever Delhi, an ongoing online fundraising exhibition of a series of black and white photographs, by artist Shalini Passi. The photos, she says, were clicked by her for personal gratification.
“During the latter half of 2020, when roads would be devoid of its hustle-bustle, I’d take photos of different architectural structures around the Capital. The absence of people makes the city seem eerie, in semblance of the circumstances around us. When the second wave hit, although I was helping others in my capacity, I decided to organise this exhibition to raise additional funds,” she says.
The 90 photographs are divided into two categories — Delhi’s Heritage Architecture and Contemporary Architecture. These include some of the iconic spots in the Capital, such as the facade of the Cottage Emporium in Janpath, the colonnade of inner Connaught Place and the sculpture depicting Dandi March at Mother Teresa Crescent. “I was always in awe of Delhi’s architectural brilliance, so much so that I wanted to be an architect,” says Passi, when asked why she chose architecture as her subject. “Just as we are influenced by a photograph’s angle, how we perceive a place is influenced by its architecture. I decided to keep the images monochromatic, for I believe black and white highlight architectural elements which are often lost in the chaos of colours,” she observes.
The photographs are available for ₹10,000 each, but those who wish to donate more can pay a higher amount. “Proceeds from this exhibition will be donated to the NGOs Goonj and Meherban India Foundation, who are facilitating relief work on ground. As an artist, nothing will bring me greater pleasure than to be of aid to others,” she adds.
Nothing will bring me greater pleasure than to be of aid to others. SHALINI PASSI, Artist