Earthy Expressions: a group art exhibition of Indigenous artists

Art Magnum will present “Earthy Expressions”, a group exhibition bringing together works by Indigenous artists working across India’s folk and tribal art traditions, at Art Magnum, New Delhi, from September 23 to October 31. Curated by Kiran K. Mohan, the exhibition explores the relationship between art, nature and cultural memory, while examining how traditional art practices continue to evolve in a changing world.

The exhibition brings together Gond, Bhil, Bengal Patachitra, Kalamkari, Kalighat, Saura, Warli and Kavi mural art, alongside Bronze Bhutta Masks and Himachal Wooden Masks. The works explore nature as both subject and inspiration, drawing on folklore, symbolism, intricate detailing and distinctive visual languages to reflect the relationship between humanity, the environment and cultural memory.

Participating artists include Anil Bariya, Anil Chaitya Vangad, Balu Ladkya Dumada, Bhuri Bai, Jayashree Sadashiv Mashe, Janardhan Rao Havanje, Japani Shyam, Kalpana Chitrakar, Lado Bai, Manimala Chitrakar, Manish Shyam, Montu Chitrakar, N Harinath, Nankusia Shyam, Piku Chitrakar, Sharma Baria and Sukhnandi Vyam.

The exhibition also considers the changing position of traditional artists at a time when artificial intelligence and technological developments are reshaping creative practices. Rather than placing tradition and contemporary expression in opposition, the exhibition highlights how artists continue to draw from inherited cultural practices while developing individual approaches to their work.

Across the works, artists explore line, colour, pattern, symbolism and materiality, with some remaining closely connected to established traditions while others incorporate contemporary elements into their practices. Several participating artists have received national recognition, while others have been represented at auctions and exhibitions at prominent cultural institutions and public spaces.

Through the diverse practices on display, “Earthy Expressions” brings together perspectives on tradition, contemporary life and the natural world, highlighting how Indigenous artistic traditions continue to preserve cultural knowledge while finding relevance in the present.

When: September 23–October 31; 11 AM–7 PM

Where: Art Magnum, Yusuf Sarai, Sri Aurobindo Marg, New Delhi