“Art is all about freedom till it gets shut down”
- sushrutha d
- Apr 14, 2024
- 43 min read
Updated: Jun 9, 2025
“Winter is Here”
WhatsApp group chat, 2024
Participants in conversation:
Sushrutha D, TAD/Manashri, Akhila Palamattathil, Sneha Lakhotia, Emoji person,The sunflower, Srikavya Peddinti, Nanditha, Amrutha, Raksha, Drishya, Hari Priya, Sriparna Dutta, Shilpa Nayudu, Sharath Mudupu, Dey, Tinkal, Neha, Pratik Naik, Ashish, Apekshit Sharma, Ssoumya Yadav, Clyde Dmello
Disclaimer: This is a copy of the WhatsApp group chat. Slight modifications are made to attain easy readability by keeping the flow of thoughts in consideration.
30/03/2024
TAD: Meet @Sushrutha D
Imagine art that blends philosophy, idealism, and the digital world to challenge everything you thought you knew. Sushrutha D isn't just an artist; he's a questioner, using information overload to explore what's real and push the boundaries of art itself. He has been actively contributing pushing TAD to be the wave for change.
Sushrutha D: One small correction. I am not concerned with the truth (the reality of information) much as it seems pretty boring and futile considering the world we live in. I am more interested in finding and defining "what beauty is" for the time, in a very aesthetical argument sense.
Can I use this space to initiate a sort of discussion?
TAD: Absolutely! @Sushrutha D
This space encourages art discussions and feedback sessions to foster individual practices.
Sushrutha D: Even though TAD is initiated with the idea of helping individual practitioners present themselves in a better way for the real art world, I believe this space can become much more with the active participation of everyone. We all are from different areas, belonging to the same generation...almost going through a similar phase in our life...struggling to get exploited somehow.
We all now know how the art world is structured to an extent. Without having the powerful connections or college tags or whatever attached to our names, we probably don't even have a chance irrespective of how good our practice actually is.
We also have to note that, most of us lack purpose with our own practice. Even though we fill up our statements with difficult words and jargon, we somehow know what really is the case. There could be exceptions, but we can come to terms with ourselves that we collectively lack a purpose.
Instead of begging to get exploited, what if we can use this space to build a specific purpose for our generation? What if we can contribute to the discourse in an alternative way by becoming a collective force that can't go unnoticed? How would you envision it considering ourselves and our situation! Can we tackle the system with this kind of approach?
I would like to know everyone’s interest and thoughts regarding this and also the alternative visions anyone has. Thank you.
Also, please do not demotivate and dilute the conversation by saying we just have to continue our practice bla bla bla, as everyone probably had enough of that and just that is not going to help anyone here. We don't need appreciation and acknowledgements but ideas on how to proceed. Thank you once again.
Raksha: That's a good point @Sushrutha D. But purpose in what sense? Are you talking about the intention behind creating something or why want to be an artists, in a general sense?
Drishya: I agree with @Sushrutha D. We, and especially artists outside in-groups in India, badly need a movement to coalesce around. It could be a movement in the loosest sense, but we could still use some kind of a manifesto as a starting point.
Sushrutha D: @Raksha @Drishya
Purpose in the sense of our idea of what art actually is. It starts there itself. Why are we doing art first of all? The subject we sprinkle on top of this doesn't really matter to the discourse of art. It involves the understanding of our time and space to form an original opinion on how can we advance what already exists.
It's difficult to answer as I don't know each other enough to know how everyone here understands this.
What I would suggest for the manifesto is to develop through these discussions. Instead of asking everyone to work on this manifesto, we can let everyone here add points that would result in a manifesto of sort. Maybe then we can refine it. If you have ideas, please share. Doesn't matter how raw the idea is as everything here has just started brewing.
Drishya: Have you read the recent article on ArtNet about the abysmal state of the auction scene? https://news.artnet.com/market/primary-versus-secondary-market-prices-2455677?utm_campaign=artnet-news&utm_content=1711386911&utm_medium=social&utm_source=instagram
Sushrutha D: @Drishya This is too rich for me to understand :D. But, I don't think this would really affect anything in the long term.
TAD: TAD definitely has a vision in that sense, to move beyond the mainstream. But at this point, I'm really interested in analysing and understanding what this group believing in TAD is looking for. Understanding their motivations will help us choose and take a direction for the future.
Also, one point here: I strongly feel that applying for grants is not begging. A grantor offers a grant, and we take a chance by presenting our project with clarity and building it for ourselves, planning it in the process. If we get the grant, that's fantastic! But if not, we proceed with the project anyway. TAD is here to empower people to take that chance, regardless of the outcome. Art needs funds to sustain after all.
Finally, I believe there should be a natural progression from this virtual space to the physical. Imagine brainstorming sessions, thought-provoking discussions, studio visits and curated shows that bring "non-gallery" art to the forefront and get it recognized for what it is. Art need not have an outcome. I strongly believe in the process being the art itself and want to take TAD ahead believing in it.
Would love to hear everyone's thoughts on this! I appreciate @Sushrutha D for starting this conversation.
Sushrutha D: @TAD I did not mean it in terms of grant. Let's just say, we somehow got inside this network, then we would be considered as junior artists for god knows how long! If we just look around, those with 5 page CVs are still struggling! I really don't want to be like that. At least with 32-35, my life has to get sorted. This junior artist senior artist will not help I think. Most of the senior artists are not updating themselves with current ideas! Why are they still there controlling everything, I don't understand. We need to figure out a way to change the system. Better, with a way that works well for us!
Raksha: It's honestly getting old. We need fresher perspectives to be more exposed than senior artists' ideas. I think that will change when we collectively start a new wave of ideas.
Dey: The art practices we find around us are too self-centric, to begin with....to usher a new sense of purpose for the existence of art and its role in society a chance of mentality needs to take place......and how will that take place when the basic amenities of aspiring artists like "roti-kapra-makan" are on the brink of uncertainty…to develop a community art practice that is free from the self and part of a larger collective purpose is just being reduced to an empty idea...
Sneha Lakhotia: I agree that when it comes to financial struggle, fine art is a space where we need to constantly juggle between things and even people who are exhibiting and known are also struggling and figuring out ways to keep up with the growing demands of the market. Painting is a product now more than an emotion. With the changes around, we as artists need to figure out ways to connect with different kinds of audiences and in the process sensitize them. There are multiple ways now to do that. DAG recently organized a play fair in Victoria Memorial to spread art awareness through gameplay. It was for people from all walks of life. I agree that as a community we can help each other, collaborate, and grow. Manifesto is one thing. More than that, I feel there is a need for engagement and interactions and a feeling of togetherness and support that a community provides no matter what phase of life people are in. For example, group 1890. What happened to them? It disintegrated pretty soon with a single show that happened in Delhi.
There is this beautiful book, Conversations Before the End of Time. So, Dissanayake has mentioned how in traditional society art was for life's sake and not art for art's sake.
Adding to this. He said art comes from a need to make things special. Traditionally, it was a mode of social participation. In modern times, it is a means of escape from the world.
Sushrutha D: @Dey @Sneha Lakhotia
I have been saying this a lot around my friend circle. Not many like it but, this is what I believe.
Why would someone find your memory/home/family or so-called roots interesting? Who would read the diary of a random person who almost has similar experiences like the most?! We have almost heard all kinds of individual stories now. There are social media, videos, reels to get exposed to various things that would sensitize us. It doesn't have to come through the "painting" or any such specific media per se.
Interaction, a sense of community are all good when we feel down, but to move forward we need some kind of hope as well! To motivate ourselves for what could be done with our ideas, thoughts when everything around us says otherwise. We need a bigger challenge to not get stuck in a self-comforting system, and I hope this space can become that.
Sneha Lakhotia: I understand you. What I believe is the emotions that we share are universal in a way. Of course, art is subjective. Art practice always starts from personal/ Inside and in later stages, we try to figure out better ways to make it interpersonal. It's a journey and eventually, we can figure out a way. There is no need to know all the answers right now. We can stay within the question and eventually, the answer will come.
Community in itself is not just a self-comforting space but together we have more power to impact each other and others. HOPE is the by-product. This is what I feel.
Sushrutha D: Ok. Let me try to contradict you here. Do you see each college as a community space? Do you think these colleges have impacted others?!
How many WhatsApp groups we all have formed to keep connections that are long dead!
Just look at this interaction thread itself. How excited people were when it was concerned with what we could do and what happened when it turned out that everything was well and good just the way it is!
TAD: “Why do we share our lives and stories through art? And how will it resonate with those who interact with it?”
This is a genuine question! It's true, that social media exposes us to a vast array of experiences, and individual stories might seem similar on the surface. But I still think sharing our art and stories, even if they seem "ordinary," is still incredibly valuable. While experiences might be similar, everyone's journey through it is unique. The details, the way we process things, perspective, even on a common theme, can resonate deeply with someone else who's faced something similar (where ordinary finds universal appeal).
Sometimes, the most inspiring stories aren't about grand achievements but about overcoming everyday challenges. Seeing someone else persevere through something relatable can spark hope and motivation in us. I hope we find that at TAD, gradually.
You're right, we need to push ourselves. But that growth can come from both challenges and the routine of putting ourselves out there, sharing our authentic selves through art or writing. This group can be a space for both. We can find comfort here but also challenge ourselves.
Let's use TAD to build shared experiences as a springboard for growth, both individually and as a community. Looking forward!
Sushrutha D: @TAD This is exactly what a senior artist would say. Are we also going to say the same things? While the world has almost changed completely bit by bit, our idea of art didn't even budge in around 75 years!? And we call ourselves contemporary artists..! Really!!?
I can rest my case here. But, this art is an emotion kind of dialogue that is a bit too old now, to be honest. Nobody looks at art to resonate with emotions now. We have music or movies that are available at our fingertips anytime we want. Does anybody look at Matisse to feel okay here? Anybody? Anybody? Anybody?
Times have changed. Definitions need to change with it. It’s our conscious collective efforts that change these things.
Hope everyone has seen that reel where Elon Musk says how technology kept by itself deteriorates with time. Can you apply that to art and understand what we are doing?!
TAD: I never used the word ‘emotion/s’.
Art is subjective and there is no right or wrong to how it is interpreted or defined.
We cannot say Black is White now in another 50 years! Black will still be Black, but the way you see it can evolve. The perception and the intention that goes into viewing and identifying that ‘Black’ will always stay.
We might need another term altogether for the (new) definition. Why call it Art then?
Sushrutha D: @TAD How is making art stagnant helpful? What is the meaning of the contemporary then? Why did Dadaism lead to surrealism then? Maybe even Renaissance or even cave art is better for now!!? How does that work, I don't have a clue.
Akhila Palamattathil: @TAD I agree with you. I would like to add a few things here in the below voice note.
Hi all, Hi Sushruth, What you are saying is something that I understand, you know. I understand in the sense that you are looking for things to be a collective and a senior artist junior artist things should change. And this space should have a manifesto of how things should be. And I understand that’s what you are trying to say. Correct me if I am wrong.
I understand why, you know, what you are saying, how we can look into further and what will be the next movement in art. That’s a question I feel like all of us ask, but you can’t do it now, we can only be able to say it from a point away.
What you have to understand is…not you, I am so sorry to particularly point, but generally, what I want to say is, digital technology which we will be able to look at after a point. Not after a point but right now also. If you look at Wrong Biennale, which is actually closing today, you can see it online, you can see how technology has worked around to form art.
Art being subjective is not a lost narrative. Why I am saying this is especially because of the times we are living in. Art has always been a way of documenting. If you look at it going back to cave paintings and coming back to where we are right now, art has always been documented. It has a documentative nature. Right now, We can call it a documentative nature, but before it was done for documentation.
Considering the times we live in, we can say that everything is documented on its own. For example, your internet traces are documented even if you don’t want to. We accept all the cookies, that you know when you browse through a website. Your steps are always marked through. In that situation, what does documentation mean? That is where it gets the personal idea of the subjectivity of art that comes into play. How do individuals document?
And the senior artist junior artist thing is always very annoying. I understand it. But you can’t always ask for equal opportunities because once the equal opportunities are there then, that becomes a problem in defining who gets the grant for example. What makes good art, right?
So if you have looked into it, I also agree that there is a lot of internal politics that goes into grant giving and things like that…But there are upcoming things. For example, there is something like a museum called Conflictorium, they have a nice collective. And their grant is interesting as they encourage younger people. And this senior artist junior artist thing, I have mostly interacted with Bengaluru circles and Kerala circles, and this is very much evident. How to have more opportunities is to look into alternatives. Why do you always have to look into gallery structures?
If a place, or a grant, or a gallery for example is always sticking out with certain people, then that is not only the problem of having equal opportunities for artists but for galleries as well. So alternative spaces. This is an alternative space. TAD is an alternative space.
Why the manifesto will not be a good idea, that will be a collective ideology that we will be trying to take. We have a community, I mean, We know that, for example, if I am looking for work, or if this is my new work, I can put it up here. We have a review or constructive criticism of it from here. Isn’t that what communities are about? Manifestos would have been necessary if it is a…. and also the idea of how to bring on to your art. Do you actually need all this equipment, in the sense of old equipment like galleries and museums, museums are different, but galleries, as spaces to portray your art. You have social media. And an interesting thing I have seen here is the wrong biennale. Very interesting. And there is very little bias in that. You can check out people who bring out their works in different formats and for writing, you can check out Whitecube. I mean there are some people like anthropologists who still bring out their works through social media.
So we are at a phase, where this is THE technology, use creative ways, creative solutions to handle it. For example like…same same but different, you know. This is one of the festivals that recently happened in Kerala, called kappa culture. This was their tagline. It is the culture is same but everybody is different. Individuality in the times especially we are living in, everybody has an opinion, individuality in art is a way through it. So, that will be a subjectivity.
Subjectivity will come in anything we are doing, anything unless we are going to, even when you are going into a laboratory and taking in (sander?), even though there is a way of doing it, there will come some subjective indifferences, is what I would say. So, subjectivity always exists, you can’t get out of it. So yeah, this is a community, we support each other, why do we need to write it down?
I understand what you are saying, it could turn into, I mean you are looking into how the artist groups have done that. Right now, there is no need for that group is what I am trying to say also. You can exist individually. Even this group forming, especially in India comes after nationalism. Before you go beyond that, people used to work individually. Individual works when put together later on by art historians are when we have all the periods and things like that. So, what are the tools we have, how do we use them, do we have support from our community, then what is stopping us? Why do we need a manifesto?!
Sushrutha D: @Akhila Palamattathil
I was just trying to prompt what this space could be to initiate a discussion of sorts. Because it was almost one way till today. Having said that, I am not the one who brought up manifesto thought. I just tried to facilitate that thought asking for ideas to build it. Coming up with such thoughts and standing up for them is how our generation can tackle the system where we get constantly side-lined.
Secondly, I do not completely agree with art as a document. If that is so, then google or meta is the artist of our time because that has the most possible documentation of our time as it records the data paths and our footprints.
I am just saying thoughts need to develop over time especially regarding "contemporary" art. Stagnant thoughts or borrowed thoughts are the biggest problem in Indian art. At least with this generation, with this space, if we can create dynamic engaging thoughts to take centre stage in Indian art, over time, hopefully, society would see value in art practice and at least start caring about it as it won't be some random person's memory or whatever.
Amrutha: I agree with this. Why would anyone wake up and go to a show to see portraitures and something personal except for the artist’s well-wishers who went for support? The question of identity and relevance is actually quite far from personal. Having said that contemporary art and art documentation don't necessarily have to be synonyms.
Sushrutha D: Finally, someone understands what I have been saying. This is a very rare phenomenon :D
TAD: @Akhila Palamattathil @Sushrutha D @Amrutha
Even I feel that art is not just documentation but rather a commentary on the evolving human condition and the constant change.
What was created in history was art, and what we create in the contemporary time is also Art but its nature and positioning keep evolving. And of course, relevance plays an important role in how it is placed.
Sriparna Dutta: Thank you for today’s critical aspect of the discussion. Some way I also feel very deeply that today’s contemporary art practice in a broader aspect become very much self-centric. Always I saw the importance of I. Self-expression?? That is a bit problematic when we are living in a democratic society where thousands of people are protesting for their basic needs. Like in Ladakh, many locals are doing hunger strikes, sleeping collectively together under the snowy sky protesting for their basic needs. My question is what is our role in solving the ground level problem? Beyond documentation. Like from earlier times also art became a tool to reflect. I think we collaboratively need to do something relevant. This concept of a collective can become an important alternative in today’s contemporary times. I feel collaboratively we can make some real change.
In my practice, I am doing this but I feel collaboratively the impact will be more profound. Please share your thoughts.
Sushrutha D: @Sriparna Dutta I have switched my brain off for today. Let others share their thoughts too. It's in everyone’s hands to continue what has been initiated if they feel this is good. There are many people with brilliant thought processes here. Let me learn a few things from their approach as well.
31/03/2024
TAD: Greetings! Sending you all an overview of What TAD is for. Hope we all align with this.
What is TAD for?
TAD is a comprehensive system designed to enhance your creative practice. This forum aims to explore the potential benefits of TAD and determine its alignment with your creative workflow. It is envisioned as:
An Open Community for Artists: TAD is not a closed group or community. It's always open to anyone who wants to join because our main goal is to avoid bias at all stages. However, we do have preferences. We prioritize supporting experimental works because established works that are gallery-ready already have a strong platform.
Making Art Jargon Accessible: TAD makes complex art terminology understandable. Not everyone can grasp the symbolism behind a unicorn, but most people can understand "a white horse with a horn on its head." TAD decodes and explains art, breaking it down into simple pieces.
Get Feedback and Grow Your Artistic Journey: TAD is a one-stop shop for sharing your work and receiving reviews from diverse perspectives. You can schedule calls for mentorship sessions, guidance on art writing, and anything art-related!
Collaboration and Opportunity Await: TAD is a platform for sharing your work and finding opportunities for collaboration with a plan to have a series of curations in the long run.
Healthy Dialogue and Constructive Criticism: TAD fosters a space for healthy dialogue about art, art writing, curation, and even the limitations of the art world. However, these discussions are conducted respectfully to avoid negativity.
Sustainable Growth for Creatives: TAD isn't about creating overnight change. It's about nurturing a healthy balance between passion and sustainability for creative individuals and the art scene itself. Experimentation is key! Approach your work from all angles, and don't reject ideas based on limited perspectives.
Your Support System and Reflection: TAD serves as both your community support system and a group of constructive critics who can provide you with a fair and honest reflection of your work.
Best Regards
Manashri
Sushrutha D: I think I need to clarify some things in yesterday's discussion as it might have set a wrong impression on some people. Especially because of this vision post from Manashri where few sentences are directly targeting me or the likes of me to make whatever happened seem wrong.
TAD is a space that has nothing to do with my personal opinions and viewpoints. And all that I said, is just my things. I don't have any problem with whatever TAD wants to be.
I never intended to move the discussion in the way it went. I even tried to bring it back to "what this space could be" two three times. But, no one added anything to that.
I understand some people might have felt insecure hearing my thoughts especially if they are just starting out. But that doesn't make me change my thoughts unless I get to hear the alternative better argument considering all the aspects.
I could have used better words and made it sound more inclusive but that would only result in general statements without pointing anyone anything anywhere. Those kinds of statements are only good if we are deceiving someone or when trying for claps. For example, "Art is life itself". Wow..so deep...claps claps!
I also know that art is individual, diverse, subjective all that. I am not against any of it. But I believe, we are really in need of a purpose. With this, I am not saying everybody should work on the exact same thing, the exact same way. That's not how art works. It can't be monotonous ever. So, there should be a system where everybody can find their own way to achieve the collective purpose.
I think Akhila mentioned about wrong biennale yesterday. I checked. It's brilliant. It has a specific purpose where everybody is free to find their own way to work towards it. Our generation as a whole lacks that. We don't have a vision of what could be done with our practice.
However, if you understand and feel what I was trying to say, Please DM me personally. If there are enough people (at least 10-15) willing to figure out and work towards a common goal, from all around the nation in any way you want, to form a collective voice that can't go unnoticed amongst the lots of individual noise, we can even form another channel as TAD seems to have other valid intentions.
Please don't mistake it for anti-TAD or anything like that. It is not. We can even use TAD's mentorship to better our ideas and be part of both. It is just different in one concern, it won't be interested in documenting and helping, but in deciding the future and working for it to hopefully see it happen.
But if at all it is going to happen, it needs active participation from everyone. Otherwise, it doesn't make sense. It won't become an insta page, it won't be a gallery, nothing. Just an informal space where we can plan our moves ahead like a few close friends in a tea shop. It’s very idealistic, very noble but fucking hard to pull off as it’s pretty much against the systemic way and risky as hell.
My whole concern lies in society finding value in art practice because that's where we all are struggling. Each day is a fight with surroundings to just continue practising. I don't want this to stay this way for anyone. The concern itself is big enough to not fit in one night. It is possibly a never attainable goal in my lifetime especially if I am alone trying for it.
Anybody can paint anyone anyway. That doesn't change what they are. Anybody can have any memory, that'll not change any situation we are facing. Planning and working for the change might do. Even that's not a guarantee as people will be trying to paint you in various ways any chance they get. But, it's a fight and "winter is here"!
TAD: @Sushrutha D
Hi Sushrutha, let me clarify this!
I have not targeted you or anyone in the post. That was a general post for people to understand what they will be a part of, being here!
Your post for finding a collaboration possibility for your project/thought process on TAD is a perfect example of what it is for.
Ideologies may be diverse and TAD is here to generate possibilities for collaborations not to judge you or anyone. My sole purpose is to not have a bias or take a side but to create a neutral ground for Art -where like-minded people can identify with each other and take their conversation further through their own channels. All the best!
Sushrutha D: I know you. But I don't know people in this group and how they are going to receive all this. I had to clarify from my side.
Sneha Lakhotia: I just want to clarify that the reason for sharing the term "art for life's sake" was to point out how the purpose of art has changed in modern times as we were talking about the purpose of art. I honestly feel that these discussions are important and relevant and if we can extend them to Zoom call or a Google Meet, it would be better. We can avoid the misunderstandings that way.
Akhila Palamattathil: (Over a voice note) @TAD
Yeah. What I meant by the documentation is the same. We were trying to say the same idea but in a different language. That’s a problem with language. It can always be tricky.
So, yeah, the commentary, even when it is…commentary is on the evolution and how we perceive things. When someone is making art, I have gone through previous text, let’s see, somebody was discussing the issue of Ladakh and how we as artists can contribute to it. How we can document. When different people document it, not document it, people make art on it, put their thoughts into it, it’s a way of perception.
When somebody else sees it, it’s documentation in the sense that it’s a collection of different people’s ideas and how each sees things. This is what I meant by documentation as well. Art has a documentation nature. Always has a documentative nature to it is what I was trying to say. Yes, of course, relevance plays an important role in how it is placed. This also makes me come back to one of the discussions right now happening.
@Sushrutha D I think I am trying to understand what you are saying in terms of relevance. As you said, if you have checked out the wrong biennale, there is also a thing of curation, right?
Curation, it’s about, taking an idea and putting things together. So that is also a choice of the artist to choose where they want to display their work. I can’t make work; I feel I can’t make work just to fit into the narrative. This is my narrative and I have to find somebody in relation, I mean that’s where a group like TAD would be very helpful.
The collaborative projects, we are thinking on, we can have a lot of ideas of curation bringing a different kind of work together and putting it together. The idea of curation is to put them together. We all curate something or the other in our daily life. We put together things in a bag, that’s a kind of curation we prioritize. I mean I don’t think priority is the word we can use in art; we try to tell a story. And what are all the elements that are needed to tell the story? That is where different ideas come in.
So, as we discussed before, we talk about Ladakh, what’s happening there? People who are personally connected to it to talk about it. They feel the intensity to talk about it and some people do not feel like talking about it. So, you can’t, you know, judge based on that. But to have more voice, to create more voice, is something you can spread across different people. Just don’t have to look at it in a small crowd, and have the same amount of people to look at something in a similar way. But you can go across people. That is something I feel like in India, is just possible. You have multiple things coming up. Even though the system is so much flawed, there are contemporary things and new artists and new designers are coming up. We also should look at alternative spaces and alternative ideas.
I feel like TAD would be like, I mean that’s how I would want to be a part of TAD, we can all bring out our works here and we can all see how different people are working. Because that’s how in these situations, people react differently. There is that certain sense of how everybody works and it can be put in groups. I say that individualism right now exists. And to work against the system, you have to be in the system. So, I feel like when there is so much individualism happening, all around us, trying to stick it in the group would make it harder to survive.
So, change is always mandatory. That there we can think of storytelling ideas. Storytelling is what curation is all about. To bring in different stories, different parts or you know, each person’s work is a sentence in a story. And it is added in such a way that it makes a narrative. The relevance depends on the society. Depends on the collective idea these people have. I feel you don’t always have to have a you know, even if you don’t have a collective idea, it is all right. Even if you don’t find it here, you’ll find it somewhere. And even if you can’t make it with 4-5 people, you’ll find another set of 4-5 people who want to do it. That way I feel like, we should be looking more into each other’s practice and what we can share and what we have, that way it would be more of an enriching experience, you know.
Apekshit Sharma: Hi, it’s great to engage in these discussions about the direction of art in contemporary society. One positive approach could be to focus on collaboration and collective action within our community. By coming together, we can amplify our voices and impact, working towards a shared vision for the future of art. Let's keep nurturing these conversations and exploring ways to create positive change together. Well, power to everyone and best wishes. I am so looking forward to more discussion and learning, and to sharing knowledge. I hope we can meet and share our thoughts as well. :)
01/04/2024
Sushrutha D: Hi, we are also trying to write a book together on possible contemporary arguments, basically focusing completely on our generation's thoughts. If you have an overall perspective on things, what has happened to what needs to be done, preferably with different and contrary viewpoints from one another, if you are willing to write those thoughts down in their truest form without feeling the need to balance everything all together...you are welcome to join. We are looking for 4-5 people with rawest, honest and distinct thoughts.
We need to know what's the main point you are trying to make, basically an overall structure of your argument, where you stand and how you see things. To decide how distinct and relevant it is for this time and space and to be a part of the book.
Let's not continue this here. DM if interested.
07/04/2024
Emoji person: In my view, Art is:
POSSIBILITY - The sky is the limit - endless possibilities. So much made throughout art history already, and so much is yet to make.
ABILITY - An artist must be able to practically produce, what’s there in their mind. An idea must not remain an idea. It should be physically put into practice effectively.
RESPONSIBILITY - An artist must be proactive in their approach. If not me, then who else?
8/04/2024
Raksha: A question. What counts as an illustration and as fine art? Can illustration also be fine art? And what counts as commercial art?
Amrutha: According to me the pieces made for or brought for decorative purposes become commercial art but this too is debatable as people these days buy fine art for decor too. But it’s an excellent question.
Raksha: Fine art can be bought for decor but it is much for than just decor. Yes, it can make a space more beautiful but it also provokes thought, emotions and such.
Now, what I feel is that artists from the 60s, 50s, and 70s whose works are dominating the industry today are selling more and have become commercialised. Maybe in their days, it was probably not considered commercial. So, an artist, at one point when they get famous and sell more, will they be deemed commercialized? And I'm talking about the likes of MF Hussain, Gurudas Shenoy, Jamini Roy, etc
Not saying that commercialised art is bad.
Amrutha: Fair so we celebrate great masters’ floral works and landscapes but today wed call them commercial
Raksha: Exactly my point.
The sunflower: Illustration is a work of art that is meant to denote a single meaning. Like a poster. When we talk about fine art or narrative art, it opens a window for the viewer to seek their own meaning different from what the artist wants to depict.
Also, any art becomes commercial art when it is bought right?
Raksha: I don't agree. Not always.
Amrutha: I don’t think so. when we say ‘bought’, again it depends on who, an art enthusiast, a collector, a gallery or even a museum.I wish I could elaborate but I have a deadline to submit but a wonderful discussion.
I meant more in terms of where it gets placed after being bought. if NGMA buys and keeps it in a museum then we can’t call it commercial art, if a collector buys it it’s so that they can sell it again or they store it until the artist’s value goes up, if an art enthusiast buys it become a testament to their relativity.
Raksha: Here's what I think. When an art collector buys an artwork, their intention and interests differ from that of a common man who would buy a painting just to hang something on a wall. Art collector or an enthusiast buys as an investment, or because they value the work more than others.
Some people will take a look at some artworks and say you should become a story illustrator or write children's books or work in animation, even though the work may not resonate with those things. I mean, the artist's intention was something else.
Amrutha: it’s just probably their perspective when they can’t see what u see they view it with what they understand.
Neha: Don't u think museums and collectors invest and buy art cuz they know it has or will have better market value? Investment from them is also a side of marketing. Unless it's a non-profit purpose.
Amrutha: there is no non-profit with collectors hahaha. they are the most powerful than museums and galleries. they are shrewd and cutthroat.
Sushrutha D: Art is usually considered either as a product or as a process. When it was considered more as a product, there was a clear distinction. It was easy for everyone to know what is art from what is not.
After modernism, however, we hear a lot of people saying art is all about process and all. In this sense, if we try to look at all the human activities, everything seems like art. It's hard to distinguish art from other activities. This is already driving every "artist" crazy as it questions our role in society!
If you think about it...if sculpture is art, painting is art, music is art, cinema is art, literature is art, why not illustration? Why not agriculture? Why not engineering? Why not AI produced imageries?! As everything involves its own process and enjoyment and use cases, with this understanding there is no way to say illustration or anything is not art. But it might disturb the artist at the same time to be able to completely agree. So, people prefer to hide behind subjectivity for all these difficult questions. IT'S UP TO YOU!
Readymade solution for any difficult question. Thank me later :)
TAD: Commercial art caters to the sale or promotion of a product, service, or idea. Essentially, it can be considered as a means for visual advertising. While ‘fine art’ (as a term in particular) is more of a personal expression, and provokes thought or emotions.
Illustration can be either for artistic expression or commercial use. It is like a combination of these two things but its alignment differs with the purpose and intent with which it is made. Though the boundaries and categorisation within these, in current times are ambiguous.
Think of this work for instance (Campbell’s Soup Cans by Andy Warhol): The image uses a well-known brand and presents it in a visually appealing way, read/seen as a commentary on consumerism or pop culture, but it also has a connection to the real product. Though Warhol wasn't directly working for Campbell's to sell soup. He was using the iconic image to make a statement about mass production, popular culture, and the nature of art itself. The repetition and lack of variation challenge traditional notions of artistic value. He used this imagery beyond its purpose and that intent places it as fine art as well.
Emoji person: In my understanding, whether one should call a given art "commercial art" or "pure art", must be based on the artist’s inclination towards their own work:
If it was done for commercial purposes, then it’s commercial art. (The artist intended to sell, fulfil client’s demands, etc.)
If it was done out of inspiration from within, then it’s pure art. (the artist simply felt like painting, dancing felt like an escape, singing made their voice heard, etc.)
Now, this is all about the relationship between the art & the artist. If we were to think of art based on the relationship between art & the rest of the world, then that’s where things get complex...... So complex, that it’s pointless to even call work commercial or pure because that relationship is ever-changing.
For example, prehistoric cave paintings, when it was done, were not for making money/sales out of the work, but now, they become tourist spots, inviting much circulation in the economy.
On the other hand, an artist now may intentionally make works for sale but have their works not get sold out. In cases like Van Gogh, you can see such poor commercial success in his lifetime but have the same works earn a fortune after the death of the artist.
The Moral is that, how the world treats your art, is flexible, too flexible for one to decide on whether it’s commercial or pure. It’s based on so many ever-changing factors. But what is eternal, is the artist’s motive behind the very making of the work.
Needless to say, that the driving force behind the making of the work, itself can be sometimes a mixture of both ‘art for art’, as well as ‘art for commerce’. So not to take these two terms as strict psychological ''compartments''.
11/04/2024
Sushrutha D: I have a question. Would like to know your thoughts/answers.
We usually tend to blame society for not looking at art or for not supporting it enough. But what are we as creatives doing that gives value for their time? What are we giving back to the society through our practice?
I am not looking for the answers like it's up to people to find value or beauty in beholder's eyes or that kind of stuff. Have heard enough of that with all the minced words. What we, as creators are offering is my question.
Amrutha: Community engagement is an extremely important factor. Like it or not art comes under this too.
Sushrutha D: Are we offering community engagement?!
Also, what else?
Amrutha: We are not! We separate artists and common people by a lot. Galleries too are intimidating for the public to just walk in. Museum-going culture is not there at all. The science museum makes schools bring children. Why can't art museums for that? I understand that there is a sense of security but the Salarjung Museum in Hyderabad welcomes thousands a day and they have artefacts more than art very delicate ones too. The stigma of art is for high-class people only is what affects most of us today.
Raksha: Depends on the artist. Some artists offer interesting perspectives or insights into something common. They offer visual entertainment. For example the works of Abhishek Singh who does works based on Indian mythology.
Shilpa Nayudu: We do help shift perspective. I think that’s powerful.
Art creates a space where one can get lost, find oneself, relate to someone deeply or even experience the liminal.
Pratik Naik: Is there any work or image that comes to your mind that gave you this experience? Preferably from the contemporary?
Shilpa Nayudu: I recently got the chance to witness a dance recital titled “Mad and Divine” by Rama Vaidyanathan and her group. I really enjoyed the dance performance. But it was Sudha Raghuraman’s voice, her singing of Janabai’s verses that moved me deeply. I could experience a feeling I can best describe as a joyful trance. Although these experiences are relative, but for some (in this case me) they are truly priceless.
Ashish: I experienced this when I saw the painting Empire of Light by Rene Magritte.
Hamsa: I believe that any form of art, be it fine arts, dance, music, theatre…anything
Art helps in sensitising society and helps people see things they do not see and don’t want to see.
The sunflower: I feel like we as artists do offer a lot of value, but only if an outsider (here, someone who doesn't come from an art background) can break that initial wall, take an extra step and come into our space. There's definitely a gap that lets only a few people interact and take an interest in what we have to say. There's a need to make our works approachable, place them in accessible places that make interaction easier and for us to try and break the wall between art practitioners and society.
Emoji Person: Art itself is what we give to society.
Now of course, what kind of art, will further increase the discussion to subjectivity.
Tinkal: It's a good idea that you're tossing!
I believe if people are not going to consume art, then art can go to meet people!
We as an artist should take responsibility to reach out to people to make them understand WHY ART IS IMPORTANT. If we can take them on a journey, they feel worth witnessing/experiencing is what I feel is important in this case. As you also said earlier, people can simply watch a movie to experience a particular story, so why would they go visit a gallery? I think it's a serious matter to consider while making art, what can we offer to people which is not there otherwise?
For that, I would like to mention the works of Hasan whose works made people know more about AI and the importance of education in rural areas through an immersive exhibit.
Raksha: @Tinkal Talking about the immersive exhibit, the works of Yayoi Kusama. Also, there was this exhibit in Kochi Biennale in 2019 where poems of sheets of paper were stabbed on metal spikes.
Shilpa Nayudu: Shilpa Gupta, that was one very evocative work!
Sushrutha D: @Tinkal Thanks for remembering what happened before as well. That's special in this reel duniya.
Shilpa Nayudu: As we are engaged in this discussion. I would like to share a recent turn my personal practice has taken. All my works are usually tinged with me, my lived experiences, my thoughts, my opinions and feelings…of late the idea of speaking in the first person left me feeling repetitive and tired.
So, now I have begun working on a project that endeavours to gather other peoples’ lived experiences (along with those of mine) and weaving them together into a piece of art in my own creative language.
So I am trying on community engagement during the process and in making the artwork, as opposed to only the consumption of the final artwork after it is made.
Right now I’m collecting responses to certain prompts, excited to see what the outcome turns out to be.
Sushrutha D: My question is not about what art can do. It is about what are we doing. There is a difference.
Art can do wonders. That's why we are here in this field. But, what are we doing in that sense is the question. Basically, it's about us and our practice and how we are addressing it. Not about how someone else achieved it throughout history. I hope this clears the intention of the question I had asked.
I just kept quiet as some conversation was happening around the subject. You can take the conversation ahead this way as well. But I am more into what can we do instead of what has someone else done.
Emoji Person: Just in case you’re wondering ‘What through art?’
Then a new experience, therapy, a place for psychological escape, wish fulfilment, beautification, learning, existential realisations, etc., are things art gives to people.
Continuation...
Speaking about how art can contribute to learning in society...
I’m a violinist. And what I’ve learnt through my practice, is that it’s better if the COGNITIONS come later in learning anything anew. You must first feel things (EMOTIONS) and create. and not the other way around — trying to think about things first and feel about things later.
Getting cognitional (concluding, analysis, research, etc.) can improve things later. But to start with, one must go by what they feel — one must grow by their emotional sensitivity first then with their cognitive sharpening.
To relate this with my practices, we see very young 6-10 year olds play the violin like world-class prodigies while adult violinists spend decades mastering the techniques, yet reach nowhere even close to these prodigies. Reason — they ask too many questions, instead of ‘feeling’ how to go about it. They put the cognitions first, then the emotions.
And I think, one of the biggest contributions art has given to society is this very example of how learning can take place. Applicable to all other forms of art, as well as any day-to-day activity.
A child new to this world learns their mother tongue so effectively first (just by FEELING the language first, and then later, going to school to learn Grammar, Vocabulary, Punctuation, etc. etc.) — this example is by Shinichi Suzuki. There’s much to say on this topic in the context of what Kishori Amonkar said about singing, in how Van Gogh painted stars scientifically accurately, before even studying a star. This is both by the way, what we are doing / can do, and what society can take from it.
TAD: I strongly feel that art brings experiences in a context for the viewer.
For example just think of a simple act of eating a chocolate or a tamarind, when people do this in the context of ‘mundane’ it is not something they give more thought to. It is only an act of eating and experiencing the sense of taste.
Now think of a simple question that goes with jars of chocolates and tamarinds that says “What does this remind you of? Is this the taste of your childhood or a cure for your grief?” It gives the viewers a context and a genuine attempt at furthering their sensory experiences beyond senses, exploring associations, relations and relevance.
That engagement however is important and can be initiated through exhibitions outside the “exhibition” contexts.
Srikavya Peddinti: What strikes me after reading this is, that there is a role of art development at every age. We can't even blame society for not looking at art.
At the age of 0-5 years, an infant learns to grasp colours, lines, forms and shapes.
From 6 to 12 they improve cognitive development, social and emotional things, and cultural awareness too.
If we also look at 13-19 years old they start making identity exploration, critical thinking and skill development. At last from 20 years and above is all a lifelong learning, social connection such as workshops, participation, residences, and even for a craftsman goes the same.
Before, questioning ourselves - What are we giving or How does my artwork contribute to society...I think we also need to understand first how History changes when terms like art, religion and philosophy. And also how they reflected the practice in society. Then, we could also understand the present scenario too.
Sushrutha D: Exactly @Srikavya Peddinti
History and philosophy and basically how everything is interconnected and keeps on becoming the next thing is important to understand. I also think we all have a sense of that understanding already. Without that, it is almost impossible to write this long!
I think everyone is in this archiving mode and has been talking about the same things again and again...like what some artist did, what happened then, how it impacted all that. But, all of those are still in the format of information itself which is already available for everyone who wants to know.
Even if anybody doesn't know, they can just google it. Even if they've just followed some insta accounts, they'll get all this info as reels without even searching for it. I don't think we need to continue dwelling on this info-hole forever when it is practically available to our fingertips!
What matters is how we can take this ahead. All other things are just repetition...making everything secondary, tertiary and so on experience. So, what are we doing is still my question.
Srikavya Peddinti: I agree with you @Sushrutha D. This was my understanding after reading Hegel’s philosophy. Maybe many of us find this stuff on social media or in quotes but, it was just a response to the question.
Raksha: Bring art to people, in public spaces like parks. Organise art talks, invite people to engage with the works. This is one idea I have. Ig this is more about what we will do.
Sushrutha D: @Raksha People have been trying for this for some time already. Every gallery starts with the same idea of bringing art to people. But that is not happening as well. Repeating will not help. Solving might do.
From our side, from the creators’ community, art needs to get better. I don't know how else to say it without hurting fellow artists. So, better ask yourself and tell me what you are doing.
Amrutha: Well, you can only hope it works and keep at it.
Sushrutha D: Most of you claimed art is about changing some perspective. What perspective are you trying to change through your practice?
For some, it was about reaching to people. How you are trying for it through your practice? For some, it was about context. What is your context? For some, it was about learning, what are you teaching through your practice?
If we come to know all this, then we'll at least have an idea of where we are headed. Otherwise, we will be just pulling here and there without moving anywhere. Even the next generation will be telling the same things as art needs to go to public or whatever the quote you've also heard and decided to repeat.
Raksha: For example in one of my series I explored the connection and similarities between the human body and trees to provide a different perspective on the same. But looking back on it, I wish I had thought of it more before I executed the work. The idea was that by finding the similarities between the two, we could get closer to ourselves. My works are more or less influenced by existential crisis so the series was subtly based on that.
(shows a few images)
@Sushrutha D feel free to offer your honest thoughts. I'm aware that I probably did not do justice to the concept I had in mind. Others too can share your thoughts and criticism. I'd appreciate it.
Sushrutha D: I don't want to individually address anyone here. I am not a mentor. I am just an honest argumentor if at all.
However, I am not much interested in seeing some more images but in hearing your thoughts. If you have strong enough thoughts, your work will definitely exhibit that sense.
If anybody has anything to add, please address why society should care and what are you as a creative person offering to society through your practice. If you don't have the answer yet, keep aside your ego and think, feel, learn or do whatever to form one for yourself. Change the whole practice if needed. That's a kind humble request for all the reasons mentioned above.
Raksha: Okay, is it so important that art has to have a purpose or provide some sort of value? Sometimes people look at art and think it's beautiful and they feel happy seeing it. Is that enough? I agree that we need a change in art but it doesn't always have to move towards a purpose.
The sunflower: I think that art has always played a very important role in bringing about a change, a revolution or a rebellion. To show people the reality and be better individuals. And I think that’s how we give back to society. In my eyes, it’s important for my art to have a purpose greater than just making people feel happy.
Sushrutha D: I think of this as a work that needs to be done now. Our individual practice is not enough to create any impact. Nobody cares. Not even we ourselves care enough about each other’s work. Also, the teachers at art colleges are far far behind for the time. Whatever happening here is actually more meaningful work. Sadly, we can't put it in a portfolio as it is not a beautiful image but it’s necessary to keep art alive.
@Pratik Naik Why aren't you adding points to make it more intense! Why are you being a silent spectator?
Pratik Naik: It's very nice that you see this as a work, impressive really. But I have my own priorities so I'll respond with my own convenience.
Emoji person: Just a small suggestion: it is important to speak about art while looking at art. (in a sense, sharing works on this group) a blind discussion has nowhere to go, and it often comes with the possibility of getting delusional/deviant. For example, the one shared above - Campbell’s soup cans by Andy Warhol.
Sushrutha D: Isn't there enough info like this already?! Just open Google and it's a hell-hole. We'll be opening more tabs than we could read and see. Why repeat what's already available?!
Instead of archiving more and more info, let's create something. Create an opinion, create an argument, create an image.
Let's try to trigger something else! To form something. There is no image for it as of now to pass it like a volleyball from somewhere to here. It is yet to be formed. It may not have to be even an image! Why limit ourselves to existing practices!? We are young and stupid. Let's act like that for something good.
(I don't have any image to share with this, to be honest. If anybody knows what image represents these thoughts, please volleyball. I am trying to create though. You may find the traces of efforts if you look for it)
Nanditha: In my opinion, it's not about convincing anybody of how important art is. Art has been and always will be important. What I've come to realise is that people today do not have the leisure time to appreciate art. Let alone try to understand it. A lot of senior artists will disagree, but we need to make art easier and more accessible for people. We need to offer them an "experience" and not just art. There are two kinds of artists, those who will disregard society altogether and create only for themselves. We need them. But we also need artists who are willing to collaborate with society and offer them what they wish to see. In a way, marketing become an integral part... like it or not. But if artists wish for people to care, then they'll have to create something that people will care about. We need to network not just within the art community but outside it as well, so one foot is always in the know of where the rest of the world stands.
Sushrutha D: Leisure time is very limited and they prefer to engage with other things over our art because we aren't giving enough value through our practice.
About this taking art into the public thing, we need to understand where people stand.
Generally, in their mind, art is still about mandala art or their face drawings. They are still in the renaissance era. Few so-called progressives have reached till Van Gogh recently. The whole modernism period itself goes over everyone’s head, leave aside post-modern ideas. And, we are talking about after post-modern thing. It cannot reach the public without dumbing it down. Those who never understood what modern/post-modern thoughts are however in this category. They/many of us are still continuing to make these dumbed-down works claiming it as art and ruining the field for everyone who is really trying something.
Dumbing it down will not make people see value as now they can't…being in the midst of this hobby-works. It's the opposite we should be trying. Make better works that have some inherent value. Not with the sprinkled subject or the story of memory. Without any of this sprinkling also, the work should have something to offer.
Usain Bolt didn't run at the speed of people. Einstein didn't invent anything by taking it to people. That's why science has value in society. It offered something that others couldn't even imagine. We are doing exactly the opposite by repeating what's already available! and posing it as something big! Huhh!
Imagine every scientist repeatedly inventing the radio! How bored we would be! Think about how our art is for the public if we continue doing the same!!?
Hari Priya: I think it's funny how we sit in our studios living the life of an artist. Something very different from what others do and then claim to be able to create art for society.
We say people don't understand art. When do we talk to them about it? We get frustrated when they ask about portraiture and other "lower" forms of art as we call it. We are insecure about our field most times which makes us so arrogant and frustrated about it.
Sushrutha D: Open google and see how many people have been trying to "explain" art. All the artists who couldn't make it in the art field opened this teaching course which is again dedicated to explaining this lower art. YouTube is filled with these lower art tutorials which every one of us has accessed at one point in time. There are enough books written since the renaissance period if you want to understand.
If you are asking this to me personally...I myself have been writing about art in Kannada for a few years and posting it on my Facebook and recently on my blog so that my surroundings can understand what art is all about. I have written over 60-70 pages as of now in a very compact way. Nobody cares though as art itself is of no value for them! Thanks for all the "lower" explorations.
Srikavya Peddinti: It would be great if you wrote them in English. Everyone can get to know your writings. Even, yesterday I saw your blog but due to language barriers, I couldn't understand.
People who are interested in reading may click on this link.
Sushrutha D: @Srikavya Hey, great if you find them still interesting after all this banter here! The thing is, I am not a writer first of all. I am a practitioner. But nobody else is writing and for those who do, I didn't find their vision/insight interesting. Had to take it up myself.
In Kannada, there aren't many good books on visual art. And most of those who study in art colleges don't understand English. Also, I am quite good in Kannada which lets me play with words and be funny at the same time. My English, just pisses people off. Can't help it!
Ssoumya Yadav: Works are interesting. I Do not understand the language in which blogs are written.
Clyde Dmello: Noice really really NOICE. It's conceptually heavy and yet so simple.
Emoji person: This is what I was pointing out when I said, sharing works. Wouldn’t even have imagined its existence if it wasn’t shared. Things are there on the net, doesn’t mean it’s in the minds. Thank you for sharing !!
Srikavya Peddinti: To be Frank I felt the same after seeing the whole content.
Sushrutha D: @emoji person
How did he/she/they find it then? Or even others who did. They all looked. You didn't. It was not hard to find if you had just looked with the info you had.
You didn't look because you didn't think it would be worth the effort. And we ask people to come to shows! Feel the irony!?
Sharath Mudupu: Wonderful & stunningly curious question. I have been curious about why people are not turning out for the art exhibitions that happen in Art Galleries in a City like Hyderabad.
I would love to explore my work with people by inviting them in 100 ways (to an exhibition or in another way, that’s yet to be decided).
Million dollar question is...
What’s our subject
What’s our practice
How do we engage people in seeing Art or I don’t know HOW that works.
We all need to find funny, creative, weird, embarrassing ways to engage people from different walks of life in seeing Art. When people come to see Art - what’s after that - it’s all a funny life puzzle to solve.
12/04/2024
TAD: @Sushrutha D I am requesting you to please take these conversations to a voice/video/in-person channels or you can make a separate group for people who would be interested.
TAD is not the space for it.
Thank you.
Sushrutha D: Really? At least people seemed a bit more active and were participating which otherwise was like a dead group! No? Fine. Tried something though.
Signing off. Bye bye.
