manisha gera baswani

Roots & Wings
16 Nov - 6 Dec, 2005

Manisha Gera Baswani explores 'space' in her current body of work that was inspired by her visits to heritage sites and palaces in India, in particular, the 'Sheesh Mahal' in the Red Fort of Agra. Old havelli's and palaces carry particular motifs and decorative architectural details like jharokas, jaalis or latticework, and inlay work, that tends to create an element of 'hide-and-seek', which is experienced by the viewer walking through room after room. She has used particular materials to mimic this architectural effect. The interplay with the Sikishi board (a Japanese art material made from fine handmade papers laminated to hard board backing and traditionally used for Sumi painting, haiku, calligraphy, and watercolor painting) creates a split surface and adds visual dimension, wherein mounts and frames cease to be mere props and become extensions of the work itself. Another material used is the Sanjhi jaali with mirror attached behind it, the entire form inviting the viewer to engage and self-reflect.