Takshanam Unleashed: 250+ Sculptures by 150 Artists Now at NGMA
Union Minister Gajendra Shekhawat inaugurates Takshanam at NGMA New Delhi, featuring 250+ sculptures by 150 artists across generations.
New Delhi's National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) has become a hub of creative energy following the inauguration of Takshanam sculpture exhibition by Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat. This massive showcase brings together over 250 sculptures crafted by 150 artists, blending diverse generations and artistic philosophies under one roof.
The event was attended by Vivek Aggarwal, Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, and marks a significant effort to bridge the gap between India's ancient sculptural legacy and its contemporary evolution.
A Celebration of Creative Spirit
During the inauguration, Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat emphasized that art serves as a vital expression of India’s creative spirit and cultural identity. He noted that initiatives like Takshanam are essential for bringing the public closer to artists, fostering a deeper appreciation for both traditional and modern expressions. By providing a stage for both veteran masters and emerging talents, the exhibition aims to nurture creativity and expand public interaction with the arts.
Echoing this sentiment, Vivek Aggarwal stated that the Ministry of Culture is dedicated to promoting artistic excellence. He highlighted that the exhibition provides a platform for diverse artistic voices to reach a broader audience, specifically praising the decision to make some artworks available for purchase to strengthen the bond between artists and collectors.
From Ancient Roots to Modern Mastery
Dr. Sanjeev Kishor Goutam, Director General of the NGMA, provided deep insight into the inspiration behind the exhibition. The name "Takshanam" is derived from the Sanskrit root takṣ (तक्ष्), which means to carve, shape, or fashion. This reflects the view of sculpture as a living process where thought, material, and form intersect.
Dr. Goutam traced India's extraordinary sculptural journey, mentioning key milestones such as:
- Ancient Beginnings: The terracotta and metal works of the Harappan and Mohenjo-daro civilizations, including the iconic Priest-King and the Dancing Girl.
- Architectural Marvels: The grand sculptural traditions found in the temples of Khajuraho and the caves of Ajanta and Ellora.
- Global Presence: The contemporary success of Indian artists like Subodh Gupta and Anish Kapoor on the international stage.
Exhibition Highlights: Two Worlds, One Space
The Takshanam exhibition is thoughtfully divided into two primary sections to showcase the spectrum of Indian talent:
- Eminent Artists: This section features works by veteran artists whose lifelong dedication has helped shape the trajectory of Indian sculpture.
- Open Call Artists: This segment presents works by approximately 80–90 artists who were selected by a professional jury through an open call process.
Additionally, the NGMA has integrated pieces from its own permanent collection into the display, creating a visual dialogue between the established history of the gallery and the new creative directions being explored by today's artists.
A Bold Step Toward Artist Sustainability
In a groundbreaking move, the NGMA is offering artworks for sale for the first time through this initiative. This is not merely a commercial decision but a strategic effort to support the sustainability of sculptural art.
As noted by the gallery leadership, sculpture is a demanding medium that often requires expensive materials, specialized technical skills, and long production periods. By facilitating a direct link to collectors and art enthusiasts, the NGMA hopes to provide artists with the financial support necessary to continue their practice and innovate within the medium.