Young Chennai Artists Interpret the Concept of ‘Local’ Through Diverse Art Forms at Lalit Kala Akademi’s ‘Local ‘24’ Exhibition
Chennai, June 20, 2024 — The Lalit Kala Akademi in Egmore, Chennai, is currently hosting ‘Local ’24,’ an exhibition showcasing the creative talents of sixteen young artists and designers aged between 13 and 23. Curated by artist and silambam practitioner Aishwarya Mannivannan, the exhibition features over 100 works that explore the theme of ‘local’ through sculptures, paintings, and art installations.
Among the standout pieces is a bright red canvas depicting a typical weekend scene outside a TASMAC store and a yellow canvas featuring lone pieces of fabric that tell personal stories. The exhibition also includes a mangled web of fishing nets inspired by North Chennai’s Kasimedu fishing hub and blue circular discs mimicking vandalized Tamil Nadu walls.
The students from Maisha Studio have spent the last four months preparing for this show. Their research included field trips to Kasimedu, photo walks through Parry’s flower market, and interactions with disabled artists. This immersive approach aims to develop a sense of rootedness and connection with their surroundings.
Become a Premium Member to access our exclusive contents: https://authindia.com/premium-community-membership/ Highlights include Nitthil S Kumar’s black-and-white portraits of Kasimedu residents and Ponni Ashok’s textile installation using upcycled sarees, inspired by truck art. The works, priced between ₹5,000 to ₹50,000, have already attracted several buyers.
Aishwarya Mannivannan emphasizes that the exhibition aims to shift the young artists’ focus back to their immediate environment, countering the global awareness fostered by social media. ‘Local ’24’ successfully brings attention to the roots, leaving viewers with a sense of warmth and relatability.
‘Local ’24’ runs until June 20, 2024, at Lalit Kala Akademi, Egmore, Chennai.
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