Exhibition: The Who’s Who of Delhi Art

The third edition of Delhi Contemporary Art Week (DCAW)—that mammoth celebration of ingenuity, youthfulness and skill—was unveiled at the India Habitat Centre on August 31. We attended this exclusive preview of over fifty artists across multiple artistic styles, and can’t wait to return for the insightful activities lined up for the coming week. Vadehra Art Gallery, Exhibit 320, Blueprint 12, Gallery Espace, Latitude 28, Nature Morte, and Shrine Empire are the seven galleries participating in this modern art showcase, between September 1 and 7 this year. 

The artworks are split between the Visual Arts Gallery and the Open Palm Court, a straight walk up from IHC’s Gate No. 2 on the ground floor. Food, tipple and conversations were free-flowing as curators, budding artists, and families introducing their children to the wonder of art all poured in for a glimpse of this year’s curated pieces. While the paintings were extraordinary, it’s the mixed media pieces and zany sculptures that caught our eye. Particularly interesting was an installation where the attire was made of blades; seeing 50s-style comic art hobnobbing next to stoic watercolours; and what looked like an amped up version of a didgeridoo. 

Some of the pieces demanded a second look—a tiny, furry friend hidden among mounds of crumpled paper,  or the thousands of 0.1mm strokes on what looked like a bare-bones painting from afar. Don’t forget to read the wall text and artist information as you stroll through. Some of them can be quite cheeky:

There’s no such thing as a stupid question here—DCAW is meant for the inquisitive. According to their team, DCAW “is conceptualised to be the ultimate destination for established and emerging collectors, and art enthusiasts who are eager to be part of this conversation and want to know more.” Programming will also include curated walks, talks and workshops

The Delhi Contemporary Art Week is one of the most important creative showcases in the capital, and an unmissable event. Entry is free for all, and there are no restrictions on photography. As for the India Habitat Centre, something's always cooking. To peruse what other events you can drop in for, see their calendar.