‘In Search of Indianness’ : An exhibition of paintings

“In Search of Indianness” – an art exhibition by Santanu Nandan Dinda and Sunita Dinda, curated by Hem Rana, will be held at the Open Palm Court Art Gallery from April 24 to April 28, 2024, between 11:00 AM and 7:00 PM.

India’s rich cultural heritage is a tapestry woven with threads of tradition and folk art, carrying forward stories from epics such as the Mahabharata, Ramayana, and Panchatantra. Patuas (Pattachitra artists) and Sutradhars play a significant role in illustrating and disseminating these narratives.

Curator Hem Rana said, “This exhibition is not merely a display of art but a journey into the soul of our heritage, meticulously curated to evoke a sense of Indianness”.

Today, India stands as a cosmopolitan nation, embracing diverse food habits, languages, customs, traditions, and religious beliefs. In their artwork, Santanu Nandan Dinda and Sunita Dinda endeavour to explore the essence of Indianness. “Our paintings are a reflection of our deep-rooted connection to our culture, a celebration of our shared heritage,” artists said.

Indianness embodies a conscious embrace of values and history originating, evolving, and transforming on Indian soil.

Santanu and Sunita’s paintings pay homage to their cultural identity. Working together in the same studio for an extended period, their artwork reflects shared perspectives and mutual stories. Bold lines and folk motifs adorn their canvases, expressing the beauty and tranquillity of an earthy India. “Through our paintings, we aim to capture the vibrancy and diversity of our nation, showcasing the myriad colours of Indianness,” Santanu Nandan Dinda said.

Bharat Mata, the national personification of India, epitomizes the nation as a fierce protector and nurturing mother, revered by Indian freedom fighters and deeply embedded in scriptures and holy texts. In their paintings, Sunita and Santanu celebrate their love for the nation by placing female entities at the forefront, portraying women as protagonists in their everyday lives.

“Women hold a central place in our society, embodying strength, resilience, and grace. Our artwork seeks to honour their contributions and showcase their significance in shaping the narrative of Indianness,” said Sunita Dinda.

Where: Open Palm Court Art Gallery

When: 11 AM- 7 PM; April 24-28