BY ANANT ART · JUNE 23, 2017
By Ria Sarkar
Block 14 | Suiko, The Lotus ( 酔狂 )
Japanese graffiti writer Suiko is recognized for his dynamic compositions that combine elements of calligraphy, Ukiyo-e (Japanese Woodblock prints) and vibrant colour schemes. For his contribution to Lodhi Colony during St+Art Festival 2016, he experimented with the form of a lotus and created a funky, abstract version of the pristine flower. Walking by, it gives one the distinct impression of stepping into a life-size comic strip, due to the figurative treatment of the lotus leaves. On closer inspection the buds and leaves come into view, and the dripping paint that creates a watery effect without there being any.
Located between Block 14 and 11, make sure to spot the artist's signature above the bottom left window.
Block 8 | Lek & Sowat, We love Delhi
This mural has a different kind of energy exuding from it and is literally exploding with colours. Located between Block 8 and 5, the wall represents a collaboration between French artists Lek and Sowat with Hanif Qureshi, co-founder and artistic director of St+art India Foundation.
The base is made of lettering that resembles Sanskrit characters, which have been partially washed off with water to create an effect called 'colour rain'. Drawing inspiration from the Festival of Holi that is celebrated not just in India, but all over the world - 'We love Delhi' painted in Hindi on top of the colour rain makes this mural instantly relatable to residents and tourists alike.
Opposite Khanna Market | Mahendra Pawar's Shekhavati inspired painting
Muralism as an art form has a long standing tradition in the history of Indian Art. The frescoes in Ajanta, Ellora and more recent murals at Shekhavati are major milestones in the evolving tradition of this art form. In earlier times they were mostly restricted to the insides of caves, palaces and palatial houses of rich noblemen. This particular work by Mahendra Pawar and his team from Samode, Rajasthan brings patterns inspired from miniature art in Shekhavati to the streets of Delhi, making the transition from 'inside to outside', so to speak.
St+art India Foundation's conscious attempt to be inclusive of indigenous art forms is a wonderful way of bringing our artistic traditions to the public sphere where people can appreciate it by interacting with it.
Block 9 | DWAZETA, Pink
Hailing from Warsaw, Poland - Karolina Zajaczkowska & Slawek ZBIOK Czajkowski are each one half of DWA ZETA. For their wall in Lodi Art District, DWAZETA splashed it with a bright Pink to promote feminine equality, something they felt was lacking in their impressions of the city. Their work usually challenges and critiques existing structures and ideologies through abstract forms.
Located between Block 9 and 6, Pink is symbolic of the hustle and bustle of city life through which feminine energy is visible but not empowered. This is the Polish duo's way of encouraging women to be fearless and stand up for their rights. The shapes that they have made here can be interpreted in many different ways, which adds to the beauty of the mural.
Next week on #Knowyourstreet find out about more works from Lodhi Art District.