Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh: Art exhibition to display over 200 small-format artworks from 105 eminent artists
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, February 4, 2023: Every big thing has a small, humble beginning. 105Arts began with a big small idea, and as we usher in the New Year, we’re excited to begin it with a big art exhibition, ‘Small is Beautiful’.
A small format scintillating show, it brings 105 eminent artists from India and beyond and showcases more than 200 artworks under one roof for the first time ever in the City Beautiful, Chandigarh.
An impressive line-up of artists with differing ethos, themes and mediums convey their signature style in a 12 inch by 12 inch canvas in this exhibit conceived and conceptualized by eminent artist and sculptor, Nagesh Goud and curated by Mehak Bhan.
The artworks in this exhibition cover an entire spectrum of colour and gamut of themes. From nature, mythology, religion to memories, folk art, love, life and longing, the artists paint vivid imaginations, with each artwork layered, captivating, striking a conversation, unraveling myriad mysteries and stories. It’s a colourful rhapsody of art, pulsating with energy and vibrating with personality.
More than the theme, it’s the sheer size of the exhibition that strings the narrative of this exhibition. The uniformity in presentation of the artworks act as blinkers, removing any distraction caused by size, allowing the viewer to immerse fully.
Nagesh Goud, Artist, Sculptor, Curator: My association with 105arts and Mehak Bhan started two years back, when my friend and contemporary artist, Sachin Jaltare rang up and said, ‘Mehak from Chandigarh is planning a show, and why not send her some works’. I was a little skeptical about this new gallery, and that too in Chandigarh. Sachin called again, and I agreed to send her some prints, which were sold in a week! I sent over some more works, and that’s how our relationship began, and I realised how serious she is about her work, and really wants to boost the art scene in her city. I’ve been curating shows, and bringing together groups of artists and sculptors from Telangana and other regions for the same. We decided to do the same for Chandigarh on a larger scale, but small format, one foot by one foot art works. We reached out to the artists, everyone came on board unconditionally. What started as works from 75, swelled to 90, then 100 artists, and my senior, Laxman Aelay suggested why not make it 105, fashioned after the gallery. So here we are, with 105, maybe even more artists, art works, all ready in a month! Senior most artists, who don’t work on such a small format, have also contributed their works. From students, to mid career, to emerging and upcoming artists and seniors, works from all backgrounds will be on display. This is pure art - it has no religion, no north south divide, and it doesn’t discriminate. The only language of art is art.
Mehak Bhan, Curator, 105arts Gallery: This visually stimulating show has been a first on many levels, and most evidently on a structural level to exhibit the humongous number of artists and artworks under one roof in an art gallery in the best light possible. Nagesh Goud, who has brilliantly conceptualised this show has been a pillar of strength and a guiding light in this herculean task. Each work of art gives you an opportunity to escape into a ‘one foot by one foot’ wonderland. The exhibition is also an affordable chance to either start or build upon your art collection from a selection of works from renowned artists. Also the small size of the works makes them the right fit for homes and offices of all sizes.
Art for Cause:
The proceeds from the show are being shared with Nanhi Jaan, a Tricity-based NGO that works towards the medical treatment of underprivileged children. “Nanhi Jaan is best suited to our theme, small is indeed beautiful including every Nanhi Jaan out there.
The NGO, under the guidance of the managing trustee Dr. Sandeep S Chhatwal is doing tremendous work for the well-being of children both in the field of medicine and education.
It gives us great pleasure that we can contribute to this worthy cause,” says Mehak Bhan. “On behalf of team Nanhi Jaan, I appreciate the gesture and the thought behind sharing a part of the proceeds at the upcoming exhibition,” adds Dr Sandeep S Chhatwal.