A groundbreaking art exhibition titled 'The Presence of Absence' has opened at Mumbai's Space118 Art Foundation, presenting a fresh perspective on abstraction through more than 100 works by both established and emerging Indian artists. The exhibition, which runs until February 16, 2026, showcases diverse approaches to abstract art from prominent names including Zarina, Seher Shah, Mehlli Gobhai, and Krishna Reddy.
Exploring the Depth of Abstraction
Curator Kunal Shah describes the exhibition as an exploration of how absence can become a powerful presence in art. "Absence is never empty; it becomes a field charged with resonance and possibility. What remains instead is not silence, but presence; the quiet pulse of colour, form and thought," Shah writes in his curator's note. The collection challenges viewers to reconsider their understanding of abstraction as not merely the absence of figures, but as a revelation of hidden meanings and structures that shape our perception.
The exhibition features an impressive range of works, from Krishna Reddy's vibrant prints to Zarina's minimalist maps of Shahjahanabad. Visitors can also experience Dashrath Patel's paper collages on plywood, Seher Shah's intricate etchings, and Manisha Parekh's sculptural piece titled 'Wings'. Each artist brings their unique interpretation of abstraction, creating a rich tapestry of non-representational art.
Personal Collection with Profound Meaning
All works displayed come from the personal collection of Saloni Doshi, art patron and founder of Space118 Art Foundation. For Doshi, each piece represents a stepping stone in her journey as a collector and art connoisseur. Her focused engagement with abstract art began nearly a decade ago when she acquired her first work by Zarina, known for creating visually compelling maps that explore themes of migration, displacement, and belonging.
Doshi's passion for understanding the artists and their processes is evident in her collecting approach. She traveled to New York to spend time with Krishna Reddy before acquiring his prints for her collection. "It's important for the art to resonate with me," Doshi emphasizes, highlighting the personal connection she seeks with each artwork.
Spotlight on Underrecognized Masters
The exhibition serves as an important platform for artists who deserve greater recognition within the art world. Works by Mehlli Gobhai, one of India's foremost abstractionists who passed away in 2018 at age 87, feature prominently. Doshi believes that given Gobhai's strong artistic legacy, he should receive even more attention from the art community.
Similarly, the inclusion of Dashrath Patel's unique paper collages on plywood brings attention to another prolific artist who was a contemporary of the Bombay Progressives but remains less discussed in mainstream art circles. The exhibition strategically blends modernists with contemporary artists, reflecting Doshi's commitment to introducing both established and emerging names to aspiring collectors.
The growing significance of abstract art in the Indian market is underscored by recent auction results. A 1970 untitled abstract painting by V.S. Gaitonde sold for ₹67.8 crore at Saffronart's 25th anniversary evening sale two months ago, making it the second most expensive work of art sold at that time.
Beyond showcasing art, Doshi aims to cultivate appreciation among younger collectors through exhibitions, talks, and seminars. "Through exhibitions, talks and seminars, I would like to do the same for others too, especially since more people in India are collecting art at a younger age today," she notes, acknowledging her own mentors Lekha Poddar and Kavita Singh who taught her how to appreciate art.
'The Presence of Absence' can be viewed daily from 11 am to 5 pm at Space118 Art Foundation in Mumbai until February 16, 2026, offering art enthusiasts a comprehensive look at the evolving landscape of Indian abstract art.
