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Message
Aspects of Indian philosophy, culture and society have had a great
impact on the world as we know it today. We can learn much about a
society and culture by examining the diversity of its artistic
method and message.  As this exhibition demonstrates, art in India
has been a constant dialogue between the past and the present.
While ancient and traditional artistic techniques are still used
today in their pure form, they also continue to inspire and inform
the work of contemporary artists.
The title of the exhibition, India – The Living Arts,
speaks to the diversity and vitality of India's many artistic
traditions. Art in India is both beautiful and full of meaning.
A richly-embroidered tapestry can be a piece of art displayed on
a wall, to be viewed and admired but never touched. The same
tapestry could also depict the twists and turns of an ancient Indian
epic, making it a stunning piece of cultural narrative. Elders and
children can hold the tapestry in their hands and follow the story
together, thus ensuring that the mores of the tale and the art of
the tapestry are passed from generation to generation. That very
same tapestry could become a bed covering, lovingly washed and
spread on the family bed to be used and viewed on a daily basis.
Or the tapestry might only be brought out only on special occasions
to celebrate important events and highly-regarded guests.
The question of "life imitating art" or "art imitating
life" thus becomes moot when considering this exhibition. India – The Living Arts is a testament to the manner in
which India's artistic traditions offer up life and art at precisely
the same moment.
Rationale
The following activities build upon the notion of art as a vehicle
for the telling of stories about everyday life and culture. Looking
at how and why works of art were created - as well as examining their
cultural symbolism and aesthetic beauty - is an exciting and
educational way to peel back the layers of India's cultural
diversity, as manifested through its many artistic traditions and
practices.
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