The work that we do is really an extension of ourselves, isn’t it? I have been thinking about evolution and how our work can push us to go beyond who we are. Whether we do it consciously or not, every single action of ours is trying to get us somewhere, a better place. Being an artist, I am able to see myself in my work more profoundly. The evolution is more noticeable, the explorations are more literal. The urge to transcend what is and explore what lies further drives my work. Every input I get from around me is shaping me and my art at every moment.
However, the downside is that there are times when it all becomes overwhelming and I need to find constant sources of inspirations to go on. I usually turn to music, books or philosophy. But, during the lockdown, one of the interesting turn of events for me as an artist has been the access that I gained to many other forms of inspiration online.
For example, Art Basel’s online viewing room, Mumbai Gallery Weekend on Instagram, Foundation of Art & Culture hosting conversations about art, etc have all been made available virtually. The horizons have widened and the implications are beautiful. These sessions and experiences online are like sanctuaries amidst all the uncertainties of this time.
There is one particular quote from these sessions that I want to tell you about. Prabhakar Kolte said this one line that goes “To understand black, become black”. It has stayed with me and changed the way I look at my work. It is such a powerful thought and my mind is exploring all the layers of it. I look at black now and I see acceptance, I see a reflection of myself. It is a point of evolution for my work.
With access to so much more inspiration through the internet, most of us have crossed paths with ideas, inputs and experiences that we couldn’t earlier. What among all this has moved you the most and how has it changed you? I leave you to reflect on this until we meet next :)
Thoughts of the Artist ~ written by Shravya Indukuri