Bodies We Carry exhibition in Thiruvananthapuram is an exploration into varied definitions of body

The constantly evolving interpretations of what constitutes a body occupy centre stage at the Bodies We Carry art exhibition, organised by Triva, currently on at Bhavageetham Prayaana Art Hub at Kowdiar, Thiruvananthapuram.

Curated by filmmaker Sreekrishnan KP, the exhibition features the works of seven artists: Anu Kalikal, Rahana, Vineetha Wilfred, Lalkumar K, Firoz Nediyath, Shihab and Robert Lopez, who explore what a body means to them, through their art. From canvas to postcards and even food, the show ties together disparate definitions of body.

“The artists were selected based on themes of their work,” explains Sreekrishnan. He was inspired to choose the theme after coming across Vineetha’s work at another exhibition. “Soon, other artists whose works aligned with the core idea were included in the display.”

Artwork on display at Bodies We Carry exhibition
| Photo Credit:
Nainu Oommen

The curator explains that Vineetha’s five works, created with acrylic medium on paper, represent an exploration of the female body. “The paintings carry women as pillars of strength, analysing the definition of a woman.” Her portrait, Wounded Beautiful Moment, captures the subject’s relationship with a cat after the animal grazed her thigh, leaving a scar.

“Robert’s works carry the theme with an internal exploration of the concept of a body,” says Sreekrishan. Painted on canvases with watercolour, the impressionist works reflect his worldview, characterised by abstract shapes and vivid colours.

Artwork on display at Bodies We Carry exhibition
| Photo Credit:
Nainu Oommen

Firoz uses watercolour and pen as the medium to represent memories and pain. The artist says that he washes the postcards, which act as a foundation for his work. “I use paint and pen to unveil the shapes which are otherwise hidden, lending it more clarity. In doing so, I am reminded of memories and places I once visited. These thoughts later became the titles of my works,” says Firoz.

“The idea of body isn’t limited to a physical self; it also extends to our dreams and memories, which we carry within ourselves,” adds Firoz, whose works, Blossom of the World of Nude and Mermaid, portray the interaction between nature and sexuality.

The nature portraits by Rahana follow a meditative strain; washed with shades of green, they are reminiscent of the dark and mysterious nature of the woods.

Lalkumar K’s works trace his days as government employee always on the move. The artist, who uses pen and watercolour medium, says, “My body’s experiences have manifested into my work.”

Paintings by Anu share a vision into her psyche, which appears to be trapped, further expounding her struggles with mental health issues.

Shihab VC’s portraits are deeply intertwined with Nature. He is an artist and a chef who displayed his culinary art installation on the opening day of the exhibition. His works further explore the idea of sensory experiences as an extension of the body. He will also be displaying another culinary artwork on the last day of the exhibition (July 15).

Bodies We Carry exhibition is on at Bhavageetham Prayaana Art Hub in Kowdiar till July 15. Time: 11.30am to 5pm. Entry free