A group of contemporary Indian artists are poised to transform how the public thinks about India at a new exhibit opening at the Surrey Art Gallery this weekend.
In Transition: New Art from India presents seven artists who combine sculpture, installation and digital media to interpret the social, political and economic changes in India.
In Transition is presented with the Vancouver Biennale.
“This new wave of Indian artists is making a name for themselves internationally based on their innovative approach to art,” says Mayor , Dianne Watts. “We’re very excited to present these artists here in Surrey; the Surrey Art Gallery is committed to reflecting trends in contemporary art from around the world, while reflecting the diversity of our community here.”
The featured artists include Ranbir Kaleka, Reena Saini Kallat, TV Santhosh, Sudarshan Shetty, artist collective Thukral & Tagra and Hema Upadhyay, who present their own spin on Indian life in contemporary times. Traditional Indian miniature paintings are reinvented to reflect today’s India: a mix of urban life, cosmopolitan cities, myth and tradition. And new media art and sculptures combine artistic influences from around the world, resulting in an eclectic, edgy exhibit that challenges how we think of India today.
“India is a dynamic place, and its arts scene has developed into something much larger than traditional paintings and Bollywood movies. Artists are adapting, borrowing and responding to the materials and subjects found in their changing urban landscapes,” says Councillor Mary Martin, chair of the Parks, Recreation and Culture Committee.
In Transition: New Art from India opens on Jan. 22 and runs until March 27 at the Surrey Art Gallery, located at 13750 88 Ave. An artist talk and opening reception will be held Jan. 22, 6:3-9:30 p.m.
