2024

Oorja encapsulates the dynamic concept of energy. It is not a static force but a vibrant, ever-changing entity that permeates every aspect of existence. Like the ebb and flow of tides or the shifting seasons, Oorja is in a constant state of flux, transforming, transmuting, and never remaining the same. Sachdev’s new series serves as a visual manifestation of this concept and the transformative, dynamic journey mirrors this ceaseless dance.

The interconnectedness of all things is a cornerstone of philosophy. The energy that flows through you, your surroundings, and the very fabric of existence is intertwined: influencing and being influenced by each other. The artist’s works, like waves in a cosmic tapestry, weave together a narrative of this interconnectedness, showcasing how the smallest changes can ripple through the entire system. It is a reminder that energy is never destroyed, only transformed. Just as matter cannot be created or destroyed, energy persists, shifting from one form to another. The representation of the dynamic elements of Gods & Goddesses and other symbolic, cultural forms of elephants, tigers and cows are a nod to the mythological resonances binding us together.

In essence, "Oorja" is a journey through the ever-changing landscape of human existence in a familiar narrative represented in contemporary context. It is a celebration of the dynamic nature of energy, the interconnectedness of all things, and the eternal principle of transformation.

Sanjana Shah

(Saturday, October 5 - Friday, November 8)

As the Modern Indian Master Krishen Khanna enters his 100th year, Tao Art Gallery looks
back to celebrate his legacy and commemorate his unique style of abstract figurative art. The show features sculptures, tapestries, paintings and hand sketches by the artist, consisting of works paying tribute to some of his iconic series like the ‘Bandwallas’. Khanna has always been inspired by the visuals of life lived by the common Indian man, showcasing their outward demeanor while making a social commentary on their undercurrent tribulations and dichotomous experiences. These humanist renderings capture the attention of the viewer and. connect with people timelessly.

As a member of the Progressive Artists’ Group, Krishenji worked closely with Kalpana Shah during the first few years of the gallery in the early 2000’s and was a part of historic shows like ‘Ashtanayak’. Shah has always lauded the unique vision and passion of the PAG, of whom Krishen Khanna is one of the last surviving members. She now returns as curator to display Krishenji’s legacy in the gallery once more.

Sanjana Shah

(Thursday, August 8 - Tuesday, September 3)

Presenting a solo exhibition by Kisalay Vora, a multi-disciplinary artist who has accumulated a strong body of work through many years of self-exploration and experimentation. Beginning with technique driven work that was obvious in its craftsmanship, it took him years to come to a point of pure surrender to his intuition. An act of courage for any commercial artist. Today Vora finds himself in a space of deeper acknowledgement and peace with his art, depicting themes that are fluid and honest to his mature perspective. This show brings together some universal and fundamental concepts that have stayed with him through his evolution. It consists of a variety of works of mixed media but remains minimal in the overarching essence communicated.

In terms of technique, Vora explores multiple mediums and even innovates new ones that fit his vision of storytelling. He builds a bridge at the intersection of installation, sculpture, painting - all art forms that have conventionally been treated as different from one another. Using material that is observed every day but rarely thought of as relevant beyond its functionality such as the repeated pin and thread and paper scrap on his canvases, he questions the idea of labels. In this way he aims to revive those neglected items that have always surrounded the artist in his studio. There is a subtle energetic connect even with the inanimate, which Vora believes still contains the human spirit through association. In this manner, a deep spirituality underlies every endeavour he undertakes.

The title of the show reflects this simplicity he has found in his being, and he elaborates, “my works are a response to what I experience while travelling to my studio and back. Sometimes I introspect, reflect, enquire or document my experiences on this journey. In order to communicate those feelings to the optimum with my viewers, I use various styles, techniques, mediums and materials. This practice eventually converts into multiple cohesive series giving precedence to one over another and sometimes overlapping perspectives.” It seems despite the miles he has covered in his art practise, the artist is less concerned about any superficial destination to arrive at, and remains satisfied with the beautiful journey.

Sanjana Shah

(Friday, April 5 - Wednesay, May 1)

'ALIVE, AFLOW', comes together to form Isha Pimpalkhare’s first solo exhibit. With a
mix of 2D and 3D works and textile as the primary medium, it showcases the
various aspects of her thought, process and practice.

“My work has always been closely connected to understanding what it is
that makes our natural surroundings ‘alive’; our innate tendency to seek
connections with nature and other forms of life, thus capturing this lifelike
and visceral emotion onto a more tactile and physical medium”, says Pimpalkhare.  

Using the textile medium to create delicate and fragile installations
she brings this experience to her audience, encouraging a deeper emotional engagement. Pimpalkhare attempts to highlight Biophilia (a love of the living), through breathing,
movement, transformation and reciprocity, as some of the fundamentals of ‘being
alive’. This drives home an important idea of the impact of our
environments on our mental well-being and the role of sensory awareness in our
daily lives.

As a mixed media artist, she situates her practice at the convergence of art and design. While channelling these sensorial experiences onto fabric, a large part of her process also involves exploring the medium and the technique itself, while testing its limits, and discovering new aesthetics. There is a constant sense of movement in her art, an evolution that occurs both at the beginning and in the final product as it is placed, alive in its energy and intent, within the gallery space.

In Pimpalkhare’s words, “Being formally trained in textiles, and having always closely worked with the medium, the idea of a ‘maker’ deeply resonates with my practice. The very act of making helps me find a sense of higher purpose and fulfilment - a flow, which also attempts to find its way on
to the textile.”

Sanjana Shah

(Friday, December 15 - Friday, January 5)