“Pandora’s Box” portrays all things wrong with the world

Team Udayavani, Nov 13, 2017, 5:35 PM IST

New Delhi: Pandora, the first woman in Greek mythology, gave in to her curiosity and opened a box that was not supposed to be opened. And out came death and all things evil into the world.

Taking a cue from the fable “Pandora’s Box”, its namesake art exhibition here is showcasing works of Indian and international artists commenting on the harsh realities of life like war, poverty and terrorism.

The “Pandora’s Box” at Stainless Steel gallery incorporates artists form 12 countries while highlighting the angst and distress of people under the influence of war and terrorism.

With paintings and photographs by Indian artists such as Rameshwar Broota, Shilpa Gupta, T V Santosh, Anjum Singh, the exhibition has also showcased works by their international counterparts like Sung Ha Ahn, Deny Pribadi, I Made Wiranda, Svetlana Kurmaz, Byen Ung Pil, Carlo Gabuco, Klaudia Krzysztonek and others.

“The idea to bring international artists to the city came into being because many galleries are not displaying them at present. The show is based on the universal theme which means to reflect the socio-political adversities which are present in the world today,” Sonali Batra, the curator of the show told PTI.

Through the show, artists intend to touch upon issues that are same in one way or other all across the world.

“The show tends to touch upon issues that remain the same whether in India or any other part of the world. All these artists are depicting a similar language and message which is important,” Batra said.

The exhibition is also showcasing a vivid selection of portraits that capture the psychological dimensions of human evolution.

While Indonesian artist Deny Pribadi portrays humans as predators and their innate greed and need to dominate, artist Tatang Ganar highlights socio-political problems by painting recurring themes such as the imbalance between the capitalist and worker’s life.

South Korean artist Sung-ha Ahn’s paintings include ordinary objects as metaphors such as cigarettes, which gives psychological comfort to people, conveying the seductive toxicity.

“We wanted to display those artists that are promising, have a good exhibition history in their home countries, and have a unique style.

“There is a big component of human beings in the works displayed highlighting their psychological tendencies and how humans are dictating the world we live in today and ruining it at the same time,” she said.

The exhibition is attempting to engage its viewers in the thought-provoking works and start a broader-dialogue about ethics, morals and hope.

“Pandora’s Box” is set to continue till November 19.