Harsha Durugadda is a visionary artist whose work transcends traditional boundaries, exploring the profound intersections between human emotion, natural phenomena, and interactive art. Based in Hyderabad, Durugadda’s practice is deeply rooted in an ontological approach that intertwines materiality with meaning. His work often lies at the intersection of sculpture, performance, and digital media. His innovative use of materials, from traditional mediums to recycled and sustainable resources, underscores his dedication to bridging the tangible with the conceptual. As he prepares for upcoming exhibitions and future projects, he talks to us about his creative process, inspiration and practice.
Harsha Durugadda
What sort of themes do you gravitate towards?
I explore themes of human behavior, connection, and the interplay between the natural world and human emotions. My sculptures invite participants to inquire about their own feelings by engaging with the pieces, often through tactile and interactive experiences. A crucial topic I explore is performance through sculpture, transforming on-site sound into tangible, tactile forms. I draw inspiration from Tibetan rotating wheels and the movements and thoughts of Whirling Dervishes, connecting them to material and tactility.
How do you think you have developed as an artist over the years?
Over the years, I’ve grown more prudent in my artistic voice and techniques. My early works were more experimental, but as I’ve evolved, I’ve found a clearer direction and purpose in my art. This journey has been about refining my skills and deepening my understanding of the themes I explore, such as the invisible elements of life and the intricate understandings of the modern world. I have started taking influence from weaving birds and hornet nests, which use grass blades or clay blobs with such intuition and naive knowledge systems, allowing them to build with purpose and a natural sense of beauty. Additionally, I started a farm project in 2020 post-pandemic called Oorna Farm, where I explore permaculture, natural farming, earth building, and resilient living systems. This has led me into exploring a new world.
Tell us about your creative process.
My creative process begins with playful form making and conceptual idea formation. I draw inspiration from various sources, including philosophy, plants, animals, and personal experiences. Once I have a concept, I experiment with different materials and forms until I find the right expression. My works often lie between sculpture, video, and performance art, allowing for both critical and tactile engagement.
What sort of materials do you use for your sculptures and what are you looking forward to using?
I primarily use materials like stone, glass, and wood for my sculptures. Recently, I’ve been experimenting with recycled materials and found objects, which add a unique texture and story to my work. I’m looking forward to incorporating more sustainable and innovative materials like mycelium (mushroom) and seeds in future projects, bridging the distance between the real and the utopian.
You also practice performance art, how do you think it influences your sculptures or vice-versa?
Performance art allows me to explore the dynamic and temporal aspects of my themes, which in turn influences the static nature of my sculptures. The physicality and immediacy of performance art bring a new perspective to my sculptural work, making it more interactive and engaging. This is reflective in works like ‘Selfish Love,’ where participants engage directly with the sculpture, and ‘Whirling Man,’ which can be spun by the audience. My performances often use objects, materials, and space in a fluid way, enhancing the overall experience.
What’s next for you?
I’m currently working on a new series that combines sculpture and digital media to explore the relationship between technology and the biosphere. Additionally, I have a few exhibitions lined up in October in Australia and London, apart from Artmumbai and India Art Fair. I am preparing for a solo show next year. My goal is to continue creating works that bridge physical tensions and emotional sensitivity, inviting viewers to engage with art in new and meaningful ways.
Words Paridhi Badgotri
Date 12.09.2024
