Dot Line Space Art Foundation recently concluded the second edition of its international curatorial artist residency program, “Shores of Serenity,” held from June 19 to June 30, 2024. This edition, themed “Whispers Beneath the Surface,” focused on ecology and sustainability, bringing together a diverse group of artists and thinkers to explore the biodiverse region of Chilika, Balugaon, Khordha, Odisha.
Residency Highlights:
– The residency delved into unseen ecological chronicles, encouraging participants to create narratives that transcend post-colonial knowledge hierarchies. The theme, “Whispers Beneath the Surface,” allowed artists to reflect on the hidden stories of Chilika through their creative practices.
– The program featured prominent artists including Aasma Tulika (Delhi), Ajay Kumar Sahoo (Odisha), Agwma Basumatari (Assam), Gopa Roy (Tripura), Ragav Seth (Meghalaya), Riya Chandwani (Mumbai), Shashikanta Mohanty (Odisha), Subham Sahu (Odisha), and Tilottama B. (Dhaka). Each artist brought a unique perspective, contributing to the richness of ideas and expressions.
– Engaging discussions were held with eminent artists and cultural thinkers. A notable highlight was the public talk by Prabhakar Kolte, who emphasized the evolution of observation and practice for greater purposes. His insights provided valuable context for understanding the role of art in ecological and cultural sustainability.
The residency also emphasized the importance of community involvement. Local residents were invited to participate in discussions, fostering a collective dialogue on habitat loss, cultural migration, and marginal narratives. This engagement helped bridge the gap between artists and the local community, creating a shared sense of purpose and understanding.
The program was expertly curated by Kaur chimuk with the support of curatorial associates Manjit Gogoi, Sitikanta Samant Singhar, and Kumkum Jain. Their efforts ensured that the residency maintained a high standard of artistic and intellectual engagement, fostering a productive environment for all participants. Director of Dot Line Space Foundation Mr. Gourmoni Das made it more successful with his presence.
During the event, chief guest Shri Amlan Nayak , Chief Of CDA, DFO and the local MLA, Sarat Patnaik, highlighted the role of art in raising awareness about ecological issues and praised the initiative for bringing global attention to Chilika. Ashis Patnaik, an artist from Odisha, mentioned the significance of such residencies in promoting local art and culture on an international platform.
The open studio visit on June 29 was a significant event, attracting art enthusiasts and local residents alike. Held at the ODI ART CENTER, the visit allowed the public to interact with the artists and view their works-in-progress. The evening was filled with lively discussions and exchanges of ideas, further enriching the residency experience.
The success of Shores of Serenity Edition II was made possible with the support of Odi Art Museum (Odisha), Nine Fish Art Gallery (Mumbai), and Hidden Area (Sweden, Tracing A City & Meteor International Joint Collaboration). These collaborations provided a robust platform for the residency, ensuring a diverse and inclusive environment for artistic exploration.
Participants praised the residency for its unique approach to ecological and cultural issues. Artists found the theme inspiring and appreciated the opportunity to work in such a biodiverse and culturally rich environment. The local community expressed their gratitude for the inclusive discussions and the platform provided to voice their concerns and share their stories.
Shores of Serenity Edition II was a resounding success, bringing together a vibrant community of artists and thinkers to explore the ecological and cultural landscapes of Chilika. The residency not only fostered creative expression but also highlighted the critical role of art in addressing ecological and sustainability issues. As the program concluded, it left a lasting impact on both the participants and the local community, paving the way for future editions of this important initiative.
Contact Info:
Dot Line Space Foundation, Office No-1, Mukteshwar Devalaya Trust Land, Gandhigram Road, Juhu, Mumbai 400049, India. M: 9891166720
Website: [www.dotlinespace.co.in]
Weblink: [Dot Line Space Art Foundation]
For more information on the Shores of Serenity residency and other upcoming events, visit the Dot Line Space Art Foundation’s website.
