Sculpture Court Unveiled for iSculpt 2023
As a lifelong member and two-time President of the India International Centre (IIC), Prof. MGK Menon had a vision to create the Gandhi King Plaza as a space dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. Martin Luther King. This plaza was intended to embrace beautiful sculptures from around the world and inspire artists and the public to create greater works of art.
The Unveiling of iSculpt 2023
On Thursday, the sculpture court was unveiled for the preview of the fifth edition of iSculpt, showcasing a mesmerizing display of installations in wood, stone, metal, and terracotta from artists across the country. This event brought alive the dream of the Gandhi King Plaza, with 24 artists presenting their sculptural prowess through a variety of materials and compositions that blend traditional techniques with contemporary trends.
Commemorating 100 Years of Malik
iSculpt is organized bi-annually by the Delhi Arts Society (DAS) and this year’s fifth edition commemorates 100 years of Keshav Malik, a well-known art critic and poet who founded the DAS. Malik’s love for contemporary character blending with traditional ethos in artworks has been a guiding theme for this edition.
Curator’s Choices
Curator Uma Nair has carefully chosen sculptors who represent a mix of masters and emerging talents, including two women sculptors and many award-winning artists. This edition of iSculpt emphasizes the movement from traditional to contemporary, creating new meanings and evoking different emotions through the sculptural pieces.
Diverse Artistic Expressions
The exhibition features a wide range of sculptures, including pieces from the National Gallery of Modern Art Mumbai. Artists like Rini Dhumal, Sonia Sareen, Amar Nath Sehgal, and Satish Gupta have contributed impactful works that engage with the viewers, evoking a sense of connection and dialogue through the sculptures.
The Evocative Sculptures
The exhibition showcases a diverse range of artworks, from Himmat Shah’s introspective bronze sculpture of a woman’s head to Ankon Mitra’s folded butterflies, which embellish a stunning tree installation. The pieces on display capture the essence of contemporary art blending with traditional techniques, offering visitors a captivating and thought-provoking experience.
The Power and Importance of Art
Sculptor Neeraj Gupta, also the president of DAS, emphasizes that art goes beyond theories around aesthetics and scientific application. He believes that the aim of art is to express love and should not be dehumanized by modern machinery. Neeraj asserts that art has the power to transcend barriers and provide an enabling voice, allowing for meaningful communication and connection.
The Exhibition Details
The exhibition is held at IIC, located at 40 Max Mueller Marg, and will run until December 21 from 11am to 7pm, providing art enthusiasts with the opportunity to explore and engage with the diverse and compelling sculptures on display.
In conclusion, the iSculpt 2023 exhibition presents a dynamic and vibrant collection of sculptures that showcases the talent and creativity of artists from across the country. The carefully curated selection highlights the rich diversity of sculptural expressions, bridging the gap between traditional techniques and contemporary artistry. This exhibition offers a unique opportunity for art lovers to immerse themselves in a captivating and thought-provoking artistic experience.
