These young artists are pushing boundaries with their art

Satire, sexuality, memory, and nature are the themes inspiring some of the country’s most compelling young artists. One promising name to have emerged this year is Chandigarh-based Gurjeet Singh, whose mixed-media, soft fabric sculptures address LGBTQIA+ issues through delightfully weird characters. Singh’s works are based on his observations and experiences, like the series on his friend who fell in love with a bus conductor, but never saw the relationship come to fruition. 

Mumbai-based Biraaj Dodiya’s works, meanwhile, make use of discarded objects, industrial material, and personal relics to address the question of absence, uncertainty, and the destruction of landscape.

Similarly, Rithika Merchant delves into the ecological crises and climate change, through symbolism and botanical drawings in water colour and cut paper elements.

From Delhi, Amrai Dua’s vivid portraits offer fresh perspective on community by portraying scenes like gossiping and pickle making...

And taking a modern approach to storytelling is Lucknow-based Sonal Varshneya, who adds an imaginative and contemporary touch to the protagonists, with women flying across cities.

Finally, Saubiya Chasmawala encapsulates her interest in the self, history, and identity with striking works that showcase abstracted and layered Arabic script, while Abhishek Narayan Verma takes to satire to speak of the political landscape within a global context. 

The future is brimming with creativity! 

Image: courtesy the artists