The Forces of Imagination exhibition at the India Habitat Centre showcased the transformative artistry of stainless steel, blending tradition with contemporary innovation.
In the heart of Delhi’s India Habitat Centre, The Forces of Imagination exhibition celebrated the transformative power of sculpture, with stainless steel works stealing the spotlight. Organized by Chawla Art Gallery in collaboration with the Delhi Art Society and Calcutta Sculptors, the event features over 100 works by 14 visionary artists. These pieces, curated by renowned art critic Nanak Ganguly, showcase the seamless blend of tradition and innovation in Indian sculpture.
Among the standout works are Vibhor Sogani’s mesmerizing stainless steel installations. His pieces, like A Slice of Sky and Magical Bloom, transcend the boundaries of materiality, turning metal into a fluid, reflective canvas. “A Slice of Sky takes the form of floating lotus petals with the soft metal curving gently to create a space where mirror finish droplets evoke a sense of serenity and wonder,” Sogani explains. The polished surfaces of his creations not only interact with their environment but also reflect deeper narratives of harmony and dynamism.
The exhibition highlights stainless steel’s versatility as a medium, as seen in Sogani’s reflective orbs that “interact with the environment, mirroring the sky above and movements in the surroundings.” These works serve as a testament to the material’s ability to transcend its industrial origins and enter the realm of fine art, inspiring awe and introspection.
Neeraj Gupta, founder of the Delhi Art Society and a celebrated sculptor known for his mastery of Makrana marble, also explores the potential of stainless steel in this exhibition. His work exemplifies the material’s capacity to evoke both modernity and timelessness, with intricate designs that project surreal imagery and layered narratives. Gupta’s stainless steel sculptures stand as symbols of interactivity and transformation, reflecting the turbulence of modern life while celebrating the strength and resilience of the human spirit. “The comprehensive, thought-provoking and innovative art pieces in eclectic mediums such as marble, bronze and stainless steel reflect the growing mastery of our sculptors,” he shares, underscoring the exhibition’s emphasis on pushing creative boundaries.
Shibani Chawla, director of Chawla Art Gallery, emphasizes the fusion of time-honored techniques with contemporary creativity in the exhibition. “Our focus was on blending time-honoured techniques and contemporary creativity, and we have carefully chosen and curated items that would invigorate the viewers,” she says. With its immaculate curation, The Forces of Imagination positions stainless steel as both a symbol of modernity and a medium for profound artistic expression.