Rare Spotlight on India’s Caste Issues at Noida Exhibition
Mumbai-based artist Vikrant Bhise’s solo exhibition “Sense and Sensibilities” at Anant Art in Noida is a powerful critique of caste in India. The exhibition features 367 works that address the history of caste discrimination, resistance movements, and the lasting impact of caste on India’s laborers.
Caste, a traditional hierarchical social order in Hinduism, still significantly influences Indian society. The Dalit community, considered “untouchables,” continues to face discrimination and oppression despite constitutional protections. Bhise, an “Ambedkarite” following the philosophy of social reformer Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, has created a series of artworks that shed light on these issues.
Coming from a Dalit background, Bhise’s childhood experiences and family history have greatly influenced his artistic journey. His works reflect on events like the 1992 anti-Muslim violence in Mumbai and labor issues in the city. Despite facing financial challenges and lack of gallery representation, Bhise’s art has garnered national recognition.
Curated by YS Alone, the exhibition showcases Bhise’s unique “Ambedkarian aesthetics,” blending past and present narratives into captivating paintings. Through his art, Bhise brings attention to the struggles and accomplishments of the Dalit Panthers movement and labor rights issues in India.
With themes revolving around social justice and historical events, Bhise’s artworks challenge societal norms and advocate for marginalized communities. Despite facing criticism and opposition, Bhise remains committed to using his art as a platform for social change.
By tackling sensitive topics like caste discrimination and labor rights, Bhise’s exhibition prompts viewers to reflect on India’s complex social realities. As the art world slowly embraces diverse perspectives, Bhise’s work stands out as a powerful voice for those often marginalized in mainstream discourse.
Source
Naz Baydar graduated from Middle East Technical University with a degree in Product Design. She furthered her education by completing a master’s degree in Art Direction at Elisava in Barcelona. Her work blends art direction, multimedia narratives, and design to craft innovative and transformative experiences. Naz is passionate about creating visual stories that evoke strong emotions and deliver meaningful impact. In addition to her work, she has a deep interest in philosophy and literature, which continuously inspire and enrich her creative process.