It is difficult to understand an artist’s mind. Only his work could provide you with certain linkages to his psyche, and in some cases even the work refuses to offer any real clues. With such artists, it’s best to just sit back and submit yourself to their vision. To just marvel at their creations, no questions asked.
But with Vivan Sundaram, who is one of India’s most popular artists, the critical strategy of silent contemplation doesn’t really work. It’s because the works themselves are so vocal, speaking to the viewer, always making a statement.
Sundaram has turned 75 this year, and has a long tally of awards and recognitions attached to his name. Many of his artworks are now part of a retrospective being hosted at the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art in Saket, Delhi. The show is evocatively titled Step Inside And You Are No Longer A Stranger. Last week, the viewers who stepped inside the KNMA, got to meet the artist himself, who led a group of around 100 visitors through the entire exhibition.
