Extraordinary ordinariness

Three young women find inspiration in the ordinary things around them, and create remarkable works of art that reflect their distinct artistic individuality. Sarika Bajaj up-cycles found feathers, fabrics and shells to create artworks and sculptures that build on ritual ideas. Shaila Nambiar draws inspiration from everyday objects like safety pin or hairbrush to explore notions of beauty. While Kruti Thaker’s work gives the intricate art of patchwork and embroidery a contemporary form.

Anu Bajaj, director of Gallery Art Positive, is showcasing ‘Vocabularies’, an art exhibition comprising the works of these three artists.

“To me, my art is my point of view to the world as an artist. So, I don’t necessarily go looking for a subject, it is more like a reflection on issues I feel strongly about. I think am more like an activist and this is the best medium I know to converse. I would like to talk about issues that are affecting my generation and me,” says Sahila

Sarika says she is exploring the relationship humans have with birds and nature. “Birds are an extension of nature and have been revered since ancient times. The idea of recycling is also part of my work since I am constantly giving new shapes and meanings to the discarded feathers I collect.”

Shaila in her works raises the issue of gender discrimination in the society. “Women’s movement in the west talks about equality, but I feel Indian women negotiate with their survival throughout.”

“Nature and being sensitive towards environment and surroundings is my primary objective. Birds being fed at intersections make a beautiful sight. Feathers are woven into the spirituality of diverse cultures and are thought to possess healing energies, the role these birds play in mythology inspired me to make the presence of these beings felt,” says Sarika.

Sarika has also been attracted to the medium of textiles and everyday objects that she can transform into an artwork while Shaila is attracted to any artwork that has a connect with the audience. She expects the audience to connect to her works. “It is like a conversation if they are able to connect and converse back,” says Shaila.

Till 31 May at Gallery Art Positive, Lado Sarai