What is the 'Inheritance of Light, Geographies of Loss' exhibition about?

It's a multidisciplinary showcase exploring how light is understood and inherited across India and the Netherlands, featuring historical and contemporary artworks.

Which Dutch cultural figures attended the exhibition?

Attendees included Dewi van de Weerd, Ambassador for International Cultural Cooperation, and Robert van Langh, General Director of Drents Museum.

What themes does JJ Valaya's collection address?

JJ Valaya's collection reimagines the historical European view of the Orient as a place of wonder, spirituality, and opulence for contemporary audiences.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Light and Loss: India-Netherlands Artistry Unveiled

Light and Loss: India-Netherlands Artistry Unveiled

22 Jan

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Summary

Exhibition explores light's significance in Indian and Dutch art.
45 artists present works referencing Indo-Dutch relationships.
JJ Valaya collection reimagines historical European views of the Orient.

Light and Loss: India-Netherlands Artistry Unveiled

Travancore Palace recently hosted 'Inheritance of Light, Geographies of Loss,' a multidisciplinary exhibition organized by the Embassy of the Netherlands and Engendered. This showcase brought together historical and contemporary works, including paintings, sculptures, and digital art, to explore how light is shaped and understood in India and the Netherlands.

The exhibition highlighted dialogues between Dutch traditions of interior light and South Asian concepts of light as awareness. Featuring works by 45 artists, each piece referenced Indo-Dutch relationships, drawing inspiration from historical exchanges like Mughal miniatures influencing European art and textiles traveling between the regions.

The event also featured a collection by designer JJ Valaya, which drew from historical European fascination with the Orient, reimagined with rich fabrics and layered silhouettes. Jewelry designer Archana Aggarwal's pieces, incorporating diamonds, polki, emeralds, and rubies, were also showcased, chosen for their reflective qualities.