Pichwai Art Takes Centre Stage in London With Over 300 Showcased Pieces

Over 300 Pichwai artworks will be showcased in London from July 2-6, celebrating a decade of Pichvai Tradition & Beyond led by Pooja Singhal. The exhibition, ‘Feast, Melody and Adornment’, combines traditional and contemporary Pichwai styles, aiming to spark discussions on the art’s current relevance. With venue support from the Mall Galleries, the exhibit encourages both appreciation and sustainable practices in the art community.

Art lovers in London are in for a treat this July with a stunning exhibition featuring over 300 Pichwai artworks. This showcase, dubbed ‘Feast, Melody and Adornment’, takes place from July 2-6 at the Mall Galleries. Organised by Pooja Singhal, the founder of Pichvai Tradition & Beyond, the exhibition aims to celebrate a decade of her work bringing Indian Pichwais to a broader audience.

Singhal shared her excitement about the event, stating, “This is the first time Pichwai artwork is being presented on this scale to a global audience – we are showing over 350 hand-painted works spanning a hundred years.”

The theme of the exhibition revolves around the central elements of the Pushtimarg tradition: Raag (melody), Bhog (feast), and Shringar (adornment). Singhal noted how these themes guide both the artistic decisions and the exhibition’s overall narrative, blending historical pieces with contemporary interpretations, including the innovative Greyscale series.

Taking place at Mall Galleries, which is renowned for its commitment to cultural engagement, the venue is a natural fit for this art form. “Their support for artists through education and their patronage aligns perfectly with our ethos,” Singhal added. She hopes that visitors will appreciate the intricacies of traditional Pichwai and engage in thoughtful discussions about its relevance today.

In terms of curation, more than 350 works will be on display, and the selection criteria prioritised a balance between traditional art pieces and modern takes on the Pichwai style. Singhal’s personal journey with art has been inspired by her childhood surrounded by Indian textiles and her mother’s collection of traditional art. Her first significant collection was by Zarina Hashmi, which set her on the path to curating Pichwai art.

Singhal’s interest in Pichwais grew from an emotional connection to their visual depth and spiritual essence. She realised that while historically significant, the art form lacked contemporary representation, motivating her to establish her atelier a decade ago. “I wanted to honour tradition while making it resonate with today’s world,” she explained.

Importantly, Pichwais have deep roots in the Nathdwara community of Rajasthan, originating there and reflecting local folk traditions. As trends evolve, however, Pichwais are now made in various parts of India. Singhal’s own collection includes pieces dating back to the 16th century, showcasing a rich timeline of this art form.

When it comes to modernising Pichwai, Singhal emphasises reimagining rather than diluting the tradition. She notes shifts in form and palette, moving away from the usual saturated colours to more muted tones that align with contemporary aesthetics while maintaining spiritual significance. This methodological approach allows for a fresh take on an age-old art form, drawing in new audiences.

Curating this London exhibition was no easy task, particularly given London’s diverse Indian diaspora. The exhibition straddles two narratives: one that pays tribute to traditional Pichwais while the other features newer works that deconstruct religious motifs into more abstract forms. This structure not only educates but also broadens the appeal to those unfamiliar with its cultural background.

Singhal has built a community of Pichwai artisans and seeks to ensure their craft thrives by emphasising sustainable practices, fair wages, and mentorship. Her atelier works closely with 40 to 60 artists, nurturing both skill and pride in the craft. By creating immersive experiences, she hopes to turn appreciation of Pichwai into lasting patronage, hence securing its future.

As the Pichwai artworks prepare for display in London, the exhibition sets a precedent for both appreciation and engagement with Indian culture. With its unique approach to traditional art, the show promises to cater to a diverse audience while fostering a dialogue about heritage and modern relevance. Pooja Singhal’s efforts exemplify the dynamic journey of art from its roots to the contemporary world.

Original Source: www.newindianexpress.com