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Six powerful Installations by women artists from Kochi-Muziris Biennale that you may have missed!!!
FWD dedicates this to all those who couldn’t make it to Kochi-Muziris Biennale
Photos: Suneesh Suresh, Binu Avarachan
LAVANYA MANI
Vadodara
Born 1977 in Hyderabad
The artist weaves tales, literally. Lavanya Mani explores the world of textiles through traditions and techniques of textile painting, printing and embroidery in the country. Through her art, Mani makes a tapestry of history, experiences and craftsmanship. She is interested in the world of textiles and text like ‘spin a yarn’, and ‘to fabricate.’ Her artworks are multi-layered and have been exhibited around the country.
Travellers Tales – Blueprints
Cotton fabric with natural dyes and cyanotype.
Aspinwall
They hang like the sails of a ship, catching wind in careless abandon. The bold symbols and the earthy colors of the natural dyes capture your eye. Through the traditional technique of ‘Kalamkari,’ she depicts the role of textiles in the colonialism of India. According to her, Kalamkari was so popular in Europe in the 17th century that French and British governments banned it. The blue color of the cyanotype, a photographic medium when applied to cloth and exposed to light represents the ocean and Indigo- a dye that changed history. The painting also includes texts from travelers in those days.
PARVATHI NAYAR
Chennai
Born 1964 in Delhi
Parvathi Nayar uses the power of black and white to make abstract portraits of the world. She plays with scale and perspective to create images of the world from microscopes and satellite cameras. It all starts with a point, according to her, that gives rise to the world of art.
Drawings on wooden panels
Aspinwall hanging
The astrolabe- a device used years ago by astronomers and navigators to mark the time and position of celestial bodies. The instrument is depicted as the base of the drawing with maps and geographical reference to the intricate layouts of cells merged. Maps of the world and our lives intertwined with references to the Malabar Coast and its rich trade history. A large peppercorn looms over a turbulent Arabian Sea. Intricate pathways of subatomic particles. Parvathi Nayar asks you to look at the world from different perspectives with various references.
NAVJOT ALTAF
Mumbai
Born 1949 in Meerut
Her work with communities and indigenous artists has garnered a lot of attention. Her pieces are interactive and seek to include art within the fabric of community life. An early encounter with Marxism led to her interest in feminism and has been a part of shaping the artist’s perceptions and work.
Mary Wants to Read a Book
Wood, paper, audio and video
Aspinwall
A tall library shelf with a rainbow of books. More than 2,000 books with recycled paper, each with a text from the artist’s research signify the literacy of the state and its recent developments. The books and the shelf also are the 3D documentation of the continental temperature rise over the last 2000 years. The work creates a conversation between development and environmental changes. It implores you to look at progress and our experiences that could result in ecological disasters. The multiple significances of the various elements are interesting and during the last two weeks of the Biennale, one can take away the books.
MONA HATOUM
Germany and UK
Born 1952 in Lebanon
Objects acquire different identities in the hands of Mona Hatoum. She turns mundane objects into pieces that question identities, references, and multiple meanings. The experiences she creates are uncanny and rather poetic.
Undercurrent
Light bulbs and cables
Aspinwall
A square mat woven of cables unravel outwards to bloom into light bulbs. The meandering lines of the cables never touch away from the rigid source they arise from. The light of the bulbs fluctuate a warm yellow, either a sign of warning or the rhythm of breathing. They never stop, just like the world that ebbs and flows with danger and happiness. The pulse of the light will hold you entranced as people swarm about looking at the various exhibits.
HAMRA ABBAS
Pakistan and the USA
Born 1976 in Kuwait
Hamra Abbas works extensively with photography, performance and multimedia art. She is known for her pieces that re-address iconic images and other symbols of historical, religious, and cultural importance.
Kaaba Pop-ups
Printed paper
CSI Bungalow
Rows of origami are what you notice as you walk into the dimly lit room at CSI Bungalow. The 24 handmade paper sculptures in various shades of blue are folded into intricate Islamic stalactite patterns. Enclosed in acrylic boxes, the paper folds into a three dimension cube in the center. This is modeled on the ‘Kaaba’, the cuboid structure in the center of the mosque in Mecca. The ‘Kaaba’ is an integral part of the faith and is a recurring image in Muslim homes. The fragile nature of paper contrasts the monument and its significance. It also serves as the representation of nature, faith, sky and the seas. A modern take on the traditional symbol.
SUMAKSHI SINGH
New Delhi
Born 1980 in New Delhi
The world is an illusion. Sumakshi Singh is known for her interactive installations that allow the viewer to inhabit and alter the moment with their involvement. Her constant conversations with the external and internal serve as a locus and reference to space, time, culture, history and ourselves.
In, Between the Pages
Multimedia installation
Pepper House
The pages of a book have moving images of everyday things projected onto it. Behind lays a maze of hanging paper scrolls. You are surrounded by familiar images of birds, animals, coconut trees and the like. The images cross planes and boundaries while you walk among them. The cosmology of Surya Siddantha; a Sanskrit text on astronomy, Hortus Malabaricus; a 17th-century study of Kerala’s flora and the landing of Vasco da Gama form the narratives. At another end, a projection ties the maze together where the viewers find themselves as part of the image and the telling of the story.
Cover Story
Insta – Glam : Best Fashion from Aparna Thomas
Instagram has developed into a busy runway in the fast-paced world of fashion, where influencers like Aparna Thomas showcase their own looks, creating trends and motivating millions of others. Aparna Thomas has enthralled audiences with her varied and imaginative ensembles thanks to her outstanding taste and passion for fashion. Let’s delve into some of her best fashion looks that have left a lasting impression on fashion enthusiasts around the globe.
Effortless Glamour
Aparna Thomas looks sophisticated and alluring in this beautiful rainbow saree by Fitting Room Couture, styled by talented Sabarinath. Her look as completed by jewels from Pure Allure
Shimmer Glam
How to add a touch of glamour to any occasion without sacrificing comfort or style, just add some Shimmer. Aparna looks gorgeous in the stunning golden sequined flared dress by D’Roz for Christmas theme shoot.
Chic Style
Aparna looks casual chic with urban sophistication with her street style look in this green dress by Urbanic
Regal Beauty
Aparna is a natural at stealing the show; she looks magnificent in her exquisite blue saree that Sabarinath styled. The saree comes from Luxurion World.
Mythical Magic
Aparna looks stunning in an embellished saree by T & M Signature thanks to her excellent sense of style. The blouse features soft and elegant hues with delicate foliate motifs and elaborate crisscross patterns. The MOD Signature jewels completed the entire look.
Cover Story
Explore the Hidden Gems: Must-Visit Places on Lakshadweep
Lakshadweep, meaning “a hundred thousand islands” in Sanskrit, is a mesmerizing archipelago nestled in the Arabian Sea. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, Lakshadweep is a paradise for travelers seeking serenity and natural beauty. Lakshadweep offers activities for all types of visitors, including nature lovers, water sports enthusiasts, and beach bums. These are the top activities to do in Lakshadweep when visiting.
The only ways to get to Lakshadweep are by air or boat. There are frequent flights from Kochi and Bangalore to the single airport, which is located on Agatti Island. Another option is to travel by ferry from Kochi, which takes between 18 to 20 hours. To enter Lakshadweep, visitors must get a special permit, which can be obtained online or through the tourism department of Lakshadweep. When the weather is nice and sunny, from October to March is the ideal time to visit Lakshadweep. Since there aren’t many resorts or guesthouses in Lakshadweep, it’s crucial to reserve your lodging well in advance.
Agatti Island:
Agatti, the gateway to Lakshadweep, welcomes you with its breathtaking beauty. The island boasts stunning coral reefs, making it a haven for snorkelers and divers. Take a stroll along the shimmering white sands or indulge in water sports like kayaking and windsurfing. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the spectacular sunset painting the sky in hues of orange and pink.
Minicoy Island:
Experience the rich cultural heritage of Lakshadweep on Minicoy Island. The island is renowned for its traditional Maldivian-influenced culture, evident in its architecture, cuisine, and customs. Explore the charming villages adorned with colorful houses and visit the iconic Lighthouse built by the British. Don’t miss the chance to savor authentic Maldivian cuisine and witness captivating cultural performances.
Kadmat Island:
For those craving solitude and tranquility, Kadmat Island is the perfect escape. This serene island is renowned for its untouched beaches fringed with swaying palms. Dive into the azure waters to explore the vibrant marine life teeming with colorful fish and coral formations. Relax under the shade of coconut trees and savor fresh seafood delicacies served by local vendors.
Amini Beach:
If you’re searching for quiet tourist destinations in Lakshadweep, Amini Beach is a great choice. This beach is well-known on Amini Island because of its coral sandstone surface. Adventure sports like as snorkelling, scuba diving, reef walking, and kayaking are available for you to try. Amini Beach is a great place to unwind and spend the day drinking cocktails and soaking up the sun.
Bangaram Island:
Dubbed as the jewel of Lakshadweep, Bangaram Island is a postcard-perfect destination. With its powdery white sands and emerald lagoons, it’s a paradise for beach lovers. Spend your days basking in the sun, snorkeling amidst the coral gardens, or simply unwinding in a hammock under the shade of a palm tree. Indulge in a romantic beach picnic as you watch the stars illuminate the night sky.
Lakshadweep beckons travelers with its pristine beauty, diverse marine life, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, the islands offer a myriad of experiences to cherish. Explore these must-visit places on Lakshadweep and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Beauty
Kiara Advani’s Soft Glam Makeup Look
Kiara Advani is proof that a look may be beautiful without always requiring intense contouring and layers of makeup. The actor from Satyaprem ki Katha has a natural, luminous, and unquestionably head-turning approach to soft makeup that is worth emulating. Lekha Gupta, her makeup artist, created the ideal mix between a clean, glowing complexion and a subtle brown smoky eye. Whether it’s for her big day or multiple red carpet appearances, the actor has a reputation for doing minimalist makeup flawlessly.
Kiara Advani, wearing a body-hugging pink gown by Tran Hung, was spotted having a pink moment that was enhanced by her bold beauty appearance. Her face was defined by the delicately bronzed cheeks, her glossy nude lips completed the ensemble, and her gently smudged out makeup accentuated the shape of her eyes.
Lekha Gupta, the makeup artist, accentuated Advani’s eyes by using mascara to lend drama to the lashes. She gave Advani’s skin a dewy base and then defined the cheekbones with a warm, peachy bronzer. Her lips were covered in a glossy lip gloss that complemented the brightness of her pink costume, and her brows were nicely shaped and filled in. In terms of hair, the actor sported a glossy, blow-dried mane that had a contemporary centre part to complete the symmetry of the ensemble.
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