Shapes of Memories

An exhibition titled ‘Shapes of Memories’ will be held at Bikaner House from March 18 – 23 at 6 pm. The exhibition celebrates the life and works of modern artist and sculptor Bal Krishan Guru.

Guru did not receive due recognition for his work during his lifetime and the exhibition is an attempt to reclaim some of the memories of his work. He was born in  1940 and his family migrated and settled in India post-partition, bringing with them a sense of continuity.

His vast collection in a studio in central Delhi reveals the work that started with large naturalistic sculptures to highly stylized forms that were moving towards a more abstract, linear expression.

His work ‘Two Souls, One Timeless Moment in Bronze’ presents two abstract figures, seated side by side. The figures have smooth and curvaceous forms, which give them a sense of fluidity and movement. One figure faces forward while the other sits behind, gazing over the shoulder of the front figure. The figures’ faces are smooth and featureless, emphasizing the abstract nature of the work.

Another work titled ‘Tradition Continues’ emphasizes the idea of preserving and passing on cultural heritage and traditions and serves as a reminder of the timeless importance of these values.

Much of Guru’s work reflects concerns and preoccupations of his times and was inspired by artists like Auguste Rodin, Ramkinkar Baij, and Somenath Hore.

“Due to his fragile health in the latter half of his life, Bal Krishan Guru was not able to undertake the larger sculptural projects of his youth, but he continued to work until he passed away,” says curator Georgina Maddox. “However, he leaves behind an inheritance and a wealth of knowledge and information that may be gleaned from his work. Like many artists of his time, his works reflect the concerns and preoccupations of the times. The important thing to note is that Guru learned and then moved beyond the realist style that was being taught at the British-led art schools in the early 20th century.”

When: 6 pm; March 18 – 23

Where: Bikaner House, India Gate