Making Mov(i)es
2 march - 27 april 2024
Written by : Tanisha Gandhi
"In this entirely personal selection of crystallized moments," he continues, "the unreal becomes a new story, another truth." - Atul Dodiya. Courtesy of Gallery Templon.
Atul Dodiya is one of the renowned Indian artists of his generation. The exhibition at Galerie Templon, titled I know you. I do. O'stranger, showcases a series of freeze-frame scenes from Bollywood movies that the artist grew up watching.
The artworks present a harmonious mix of cinema and painting, resulting in photorealistic "paused" movie shots of popular Indian cinematography. A noteworthy aspect is Dodiya's intention to enhance the anonymity of the actors by only showing their backs. However, for Bollywood connoisseurs, the scenes are so realistic and recognizable that they can evoke serious nostalgia, transporting them back to the moments of watching these movies for the first time.
Thanks to the anonymity, dramatic setting, and size of the paintings, even non-connoisseurs are welcomed into the scene, pulled into the moment depicted. The composition invites the onlooker to become a part of the scene, while the open-endedness inspires imagination and encourages viewers to continue the story as they wish.
Personally, the paintings took me right back to India. Bollywood is an essential part of Indian pop culture, especially actors such as Bachchan, and the references to directors (including the title) such as Satyajit Ray. It brought me so much joy to see international interest in Dodiya's works. Needless to say, it is an unforgettable exhibition, and I am proud to have experienced it in person.
The artist is represented by Gallery Templon, Chemould Prescott Road, and Vadhera Art Gallery.
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