May the art be with you: Fantastic exhibitions to visit this May

The sweltering heat these days makes outdoor leisure activities less appealing. However, there’s one cool escape that still promises inspiration: visiting art galleries.

You learn something new and beat the heat—what could be better? And the good news is, there's a vibrant lineup of exhibitions this May, so you'll be spoilt for choice and not left wanting.

Here are THE WEEK’s top art picks for the month:

 

Purusha Prakriti

Bespoke Art Gallery, Ahmedabad

 

Until June 10

In India, 'Purusha' and 'Prakriti'—meaning Man and Nature—symbolise the dual principles of nature and consciousness. While 'Prakriti' represents the material universe, 'Purusha' denotes spirituality. Capturing this essence is the ongoing exhibition Purusha Prakriti at the Bespoke Art Gallery, Ahmedabad. 

Curated by renowned historian Uma Nair, the show brings together works by 40 distinguished artists. Highlights include a tribute to the iconic Himmat Shah, alongside works by K.G. Subramanyan, Jyoti Bhatt, and Muzaffar Ali, among others.

 

Bachpan

Vadehra Art Gallery, New Delhi

 

Until May 30

This solo photography exhibition by Vicky Roy is a poignant reflection on bachpan (childhood) and brings together black-and-white photographs on the subject. The work draws deeply from Roy’s own early experiences and his time with the Salaam Baalak Trust, a New Delhi-based NGO that supports street children. 

It showcases the playfulness, resilience, and inventiveness of underprivileged children across rural and urban India, placing an emphasis on survival, community, and joy.

 

Nabha Sparsh - Indian Women Printmakers

National Gallery of Modern Art, Mumbai

 

Until May 25

While printmaking might not get as much emphasis as traditional art, the effort undertaken is just as  laborious. Nabha Sparsh, an ongoing exhibition at NGMA Mumbai, celebrates the medium, while highlighting the contributions of India’s leading women printmakers. A collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, this project brings together the works of 150 female artists of India.

 

The Geometry of Ordinary Lives by Prasanta Sahu

Emami Art, Kolkata

 

Until June 21

In 'The Geometry of Ordinary Lives', artist Prasanta Sahu explores the intersection of art, research, and lived experience. Currently a teacher at Santiniketan, he views the workshops of blacksmiths, carpenters, potters, and craftsmen as dynamic repositories where stories, techniques, and philosophies are safeguarded through oral traditions. His project also examines how these knowledge systems endure amid the forces of economic and socio-political homogenisation. 

 

Aksharscape

Bikaner House, New Delhi

 

May 28 to June 1

A one-of-a-kind display, 'Aksharscape' is a solo exhibition of contemporary calligraphy by Nikheel Aphale, presented by Artisera. Here, Aphale explores the themes of spiritual songs, mythological tales, and divinity, as well as elements of humanity, such as inclusivity, equality, and coexistence. 

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