Art and Science Merge in The Living Ocean Exhibition
Stepping into The Living Ocean exhibition at Chennai’s DakshinaChitra Museum is a sensory experience unlike any other. The curator, Parvathi Nayar, sets the scene with the sound of waves that envelop visitors as they enter. Described as a “jewel box” of art, science, and engineering, the exhibition is a collaborative effort involving multiple artists.
Bringing Art and Climate Change Awareness Together
The genesis of The Living Ocean exhibition traces back to a film featuring S Palayam, a fisherman from Urur Olcott Kuppam. Palayam’s daily observations of the sea over five years inspired the exhibition’s focus on climate change and its impact on the oceans. Through the film, Parvathi Nayar emphasizes the importance of artisanal knowledge and the critical role of those who interact with the sea.
An Interactive Exploration of Environmental Challenges
Collaborating with DakshinaChitra’s director, Deborah Thiagarajan, Parvathi Nayar conceptualized a visually engaging show spread across four rooms. The exhibition delves into the complexities of climate change through infographics and interactive installations, fostering hope and positivity amidst environmental challenges.
The Hashtag#Collective’s exhibit, “Hope Is A Thing With Feathers,” showcases endangered coastal birds through an interactive installation that captivates visitors with disappearing and reappearing bird species. Complementing this display are Birdsong sound installations and historical insights into Chennai’s marine life.
Artistic Vision and Engineering Ingenuity
A standout piece in the exhibition is “Ocean’s Breath,” a suspended artwork featuring intricate diatoms crafted by Parvathi Nayar in collaboration with Forms and Gears. These unicellular algae, responsible for a significant portion of Earth’s oxygen supply, adorn the artwork, symbolizing harmony between art and nature.
Regi Varghese, a partner at Forms and Gears, highlights the meticulous craftsmanship and structural finesse required to bring this unique artwork to life. The collaborative process underscores the exhibition’s core message: collective efforts can drive significant change, whether in art creation or environmental advocacy.
Experience The Living Ocean
The Living Ocean exhibition, a permanent fixture at DakshinaChitra Museum, opens its doors on April 13. Visitors can immerse themselves in a world where art, science, and environmental consciousness intertwine, leaving a lasting impact on all who engage with its thought-provoking displays.
