Ramayan: Eternal | Universal Exhibition Bridges Historical and Contemporary Art in Ahmedabad
A significant exhibition that brings together historical oleographs and contemporary artworks inspired by the Ramayana has opened at the DRS Arts Company gallery in Ahmedabad. Titled 'Ramayan: Eternal | Universal', this showcase presents a diverse range of artistic responses shaped by material, process, and evolving practices, offering visitors a unique perspective on one of India's most revered epics.
Juxtaposing Historical Prints with Modern Masterpieces
The exhibition thoughtfully juxtaposes early prints from the iconic Raja Ravi Varma Press with modern and contemporary works, creating a dialogue between different artistic eras. This approach allows viewers to examine how visual interpretations of the Ramayana have shifted across time, reflecting changing artistic sensibilities and cultural contexts.
Among the featured artists are modern masters such as M F Husain and Jamini Roy, whose works are displayed alongside those of contemporary practitioners. This inclusion highlights the continuum of artistic expression surrounding the epic narrative, rather than presenting a simple contrast between old and new approaches.
Curatorial Vision and Artistic Engagement
Curator Chaitya Dhanvi Shah explained that the exhibition was conceived as a continuum of expression. "The intent was to allow artists to engage with the Ramayana through contemporary visual languages whilst remaining attentive to the cultural weight of the text," Shah stated, emphasizing the thoughtful approach behind the curation.
The show features works by approximately twenty artists, each bringing their unique perspective to the timeless narrative. This diverse representation ensures that visitors encounter multiple interpretations and artistic styles within a single exhibition space.
Notable Contemporary Installations and Works
Among the contemporary pieces is Harshil Patel's installation titled 'Maha Setu', which purports to resemble the bridge built in the mythological text. This innovative work runs along the floor of the exhibition space and employs sand as a primary material, incorporating cut-outs of the 'vanar sena' to create a visually striking representation.
Another significant work is artist Dhaval Prajapati's sculptural painting 'The Constant Witness', which depicts Lord Hanuman in three-dimensional relief with miniature scenes unfolding across the surface. Prajapati shared that engaging with the Ramayana "required sustained research and careful material choices, given the narrative's familiarity across audiences."
Exhibition Details and Future Travel Plans
The exhibition opened on Thursday and coincidentally marks the second anniversary of the inauguration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh. Currently on view at DRS Arts Company on S G Road in Ahmedabad, the exhibition will remain accessible until February 2, with daily viewing hours from 4 pm to 10 pm.
Following its Ahmedabad run, the exhibition is scheduled to travel to Ayodhya and then to the Evoke Rambagh, where it will be displayed from April 1 to September 30. This traveling aspect ensures that audiences in multiple locations can experience this unique artistic exploration of the Ramayana.
Taken together, the exhibition reflects how contemporary artists negotiate the familiarity of the Ramayana narrative through varied forms and processes, creating a rich tapestry of visual interpretations that honor both tradition and innovation.
