The sixth edition of Abhivyakti – The City Arts Project, an initiative of the UNM Foundation under the Mehta Family’s Torrent Group, captivated audiences on Tuesday evening with an extraordinary display of talent and creativity.
Held at a prominent venue in Gujarat’s Ahmedabad, the event drew a large crowd eager to witness a variety of performances and installations by artists from across the country.
Performers from Bengaluru, Delhi and Vadodara dazzled the audience with a rich blend of dance, music and theatre, creating an atmosphere filled with enthusiasm and energy. The crowd’s applause and admiration were a testament to the event’s success, with attendees praising the artistic expressions that resonated deeply with them.
Stellar Performances That Captivated the Audience
One of the evening’s highlights was a performance by Bengaluru-based dancer Debapriya Das, who presented Parikrama – A Journey Within. Through this captivating act, Debapriya explored her personal journey and the social perceptions surrounding belly dancing in India. By blending traditional techniques with contemporary interpretations, she broke down stereotypes, making the dance form relatable while preserving its essence and spirit.
In another remarkable performance, Vadodara-based vocalist Mishal R Bhatiya showcased Purushartham, a musical piece that delves into the often-overlooked topic of men’s emotional and mental health. Mishal’s performance shed light on societal expectations placed on men from a young age, which often lead to emotional suppression. Through poignant storytelling, he challenged these stereotypes and advocated for normalising emotional expression among men.
Visual Arts Installations: A Feast for the Eyes
The visual arts section of Abhivyakti featured several thought-provoking installations, each inviting viewers on a unique journey:
– Tejas Chauhan, an architect from Surat, presented Abstract Expression, a collection of blue abstract creatures symbolising the diverse emotional experiences of life. The installation encouraged viewers to reflect on their own memories and emotions, offering a deeply personal experience.
– Delhi-based artist Meenu Rani unveiled her installation Echoes in Form 30°N, which draws parallels between human life and the ever-changing forms of nature. Through this piece, Meenu invited audiences to embark on a journey of self-discovery and contemplate their connection with the natural world.
– Ahmedabad-based artist Maulik Oza paid tribute to Gujarat’s rich textile heritage with Warp & Weft, an innovative installation inspired by the iconic Patola sarees of Patan. By translating intricate textile patterns into a large-scale ceramic mural, Oza blended tradition with modernity, offering a visual experience that celebrated both the versatility of ceramics and the beauty of Gujarat’s craftsmanship.
A Platform for Budding Talent
Abhivyakti – The City Arts Project aims to make art an integral part of society by offering free access to diverse art forms, including dance, music, theatre, painting, photography and installations.
The initiative provides a platform for emerging artists to showcase their talents to a wider audience, fostering a vibrant cultural environment in the city.
This year’s edition, which runs from November 21 to December 8, 2024, features a total of 49 artists presenting 50 performances, along with 46 visual art installations created by 47 artists.
The project continues to uphold its mission of supporting budding talent and bringing international-quality art to the people of Ahmedabad, free of charge.
As Abhivyakti continues to grow, it remains a beacon of artistic expression, connecting artists and audiences through a shared appreciation of creativity and culture.
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