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It is a subject that has been the topic of debate across various fields of arts.

Four art professionals debate whether Indian artists should break away from the stereotypical idea of India in their works

It is a subject that has been the topic of debate across various fields of arts. With the rising global interest in Indian visual art,it was only apt to address Indianness in Shifting Global Scenarios at the ongoing India Art Festival at the Nehru Centre,Worli. On Friday morning,four prominent names in the industry art theorist Nancy Adajania; art historian and curator Arshiya Lokhandwala; artist and art management professional Sharmistha Ray,and art critic Ratnottama Sengupta came together to discuss the subject. Adjania,was of the view that art needs to free itself from any boundaries. The idea of Indianness in art emerged in the 1950s when it was being equated with Hindu ideology. The focus was to shift to art styles from pre-Islamic India. But we need to leave that behind and transcend the idea of boundaries,especially geographic.

Lokhandwala recounted her visit to the recent mega exhibition in Paris,titled Paris-Delhi-Mumbai,with a focus on India. The artists of French origin researched for seven years before producing artwork that only presented a stereotypical viewpoint of India. Snakes,mantras and Bollywood dominated the collection, she rued. Ray believed that the idea of Indianness in art exists not only beyond the country but also within it. She explained this through her own journey as an artist where she was continually expected to adhere to styles that were considered her tradition. Ray confessed that only after a hiatus was she able to reinforce her individual style. She will be showing her works in an exhibition next year.

Sengupta,however,felt that while it is important to evolve and adapt to influences,one should embrace the Indianness too. Atul Dodiya is an excellent example of that, she asserted. However,an artist attending the forum,pointed out that the global artist is a distant and ideal scenario. We are challenged by market forces. The West,which has the infrastructure to support Indian artists,wants to see the Indianness in our works. What choice do we have? he said.

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