Unveiling the Power of Art
Renowned artist Shilo Shiv Suleman, along with artist Seema Kohli and art collector Abhishek Poddar, delved into the significance of art in today’s world at The Hindu Huddle. The session, moderated by Narayan Lakshman, explored the multifaceted nature of art and its role in shaping our understanding of the world.
The Genesis of Fearless Collective
Suleman shared her journey with the Fearless Collective, a movement that emerged in response to the Nirbhaya rape and murder protests in Delhi. She described the collective’s evolution from a protest to a celebration of beauty, highlighting its ability to create a counter-narrative to the fear-driven stories in the media.
The Fearless Collective has painted murals in 25 countries, demonstrating the power of art to transcend borders and languages. Suleman believes that art becomes a potent force in moments of fear and trauma, offering a unique perspective that challenges traditional activism.
Exploring the Dimensions of Art
The panellists discussed the various aspects of art, including its role in preserving memories, the significance of the medium, and the importance of the message. While Kohli sees art as a means to tap into the conscious and subconscious, Suleman emphasizes the importance of the medium, particularly technology, in her work.
Poddar, on the other hand, stresses the significance of the message, highlighting the ability of artists to express themselves in ways that others cannot. The discussion also touched upon the role of art institutions, the need for art to respond to a shifting socio-political landscape, and its potential to shape collective opinion.
Creating a Middle Ground
The panellists agreed that art has the power to create a collective emotional middle ground, where diverse realities and identities can coexist. Suleman sees this as a crucial aspect of an artist’s role, enabling them to facilitate a nuanced understanding of the world and its complexities.
- Art as a means to preserve memories and tap into the subconscious
- The significance of the medium in shaping the artistic narrative
- The importance of the message in art, particularly in times of social change
- The role of art institutions in promoting and preserving art
- The potential of art to shape collective opinion and create a middle ground
As the world grapples with complex issues and profound change, the significance of art as a mirror to society has never been more apparent. The Hindu Huddle’s session on art served as a poignant reminder of the power of creativity to inspire, to challenge, and to transform.
Source: Original Article
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