“In my childhood, my father showed me the temples of South India, and the caves of Ajanta and Ellora, which inspired me to think about working in the field of art,” reveals Shweta Urane, a multidisciplinary artist, working with mediums such as dry point, etching, lithography, collagraphy, and woodcut, alongside creative drawing and painting. Shweta’s artistic practice focuses on several pivotal themes including social scenarios, human expressions, caricature, equality, women's empowerment, and societal structures. “My artistic focus is on certain themes, including social conditions, daily life experience, one’s own existence in society, and the interrelationship between humans and animals,” she shares. She aims to provoke contemplation in viewers, encouraging them to reflect on their existence and their connection to the world around them. Below, she acquaints us to her ongoing show, You Amongst Me, at Method Bandra.
Could you give us some insight into the making of your exhibition, You Amongst Me?
In my artistic endeavours, I strive to depict the individuals who form an integral part of my daily routine, representing the people I encounter on a regular basis. Through my keen observations, I meticulously analyse those who stand out, who exude a distinct aura through their gestures, behaviour, and unique sense of fashion. The essence of 'You Amongst Me' lies in the viewer's experience of encountering these artworks and feeling an instant connection. I aim to evoke introspection, prompting viewers to seek, contemplate, and establish a personal connection with their own special individuals or someone they resonate with.
Could you take any one of the pieces that are a part of this exhibition and break it down for us in terms of its inspiration, making, et cetera?
In this artwork, there is a male and a female, who are trying to understand each other, the female has a lot of thoughts in her mind, and the male person is not able to understand her feeling or situation, so there is a space between them, but still, both are trying to understand each other.
Could you acquaint us to any influences, artistic or otherwise, that guided your creation of this exhibition’s works?
I'm inspired by artist Pablo Picasso's thought to paint objects as you think of them, not as you see them. When I paint objects or analyze an experience, instead of portraying it as it is, I try to show it in my own style.
What do you hope the viewers take away from this exhibition?
The underlying aspiration for viewers attending this exhibition is to emerge with a profound and transformative experience. By immersing themselves in the artwork on display, it is my intention that they engage with the inherent essence and significance present in individuals, situations, or objects depicted within the exhibition. Through this immersive encounter, viewers are invited to explore and gain insight into the various aspects and impacts associated with these subjects. Ultimately, the exhibition aims to inspire a heightened sense of awareness and appreciation for the unique and extraordinary qualities inherent in people, circumstances, or everyday objects, fostering a deeper connection between the viewer and the exhibited works.
Date 13-07-2023