Barbican announces first major survey of pioneering Indian art

The Barbican Gallery is set to unveil a groundbreaking exploration of Indian art with The Imaginary Institution of India: Art 1975-1998. Representing the first major survey of its kind, this exhibition delves into a pivotal era of cultural and political evolution within India. Opening in October 2024, visitors will have the opportunity to witness over 25 artists' profound reflections on the country's transformations. Curated in collaboration with the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art, New Delhi, the showcase will feature nearly 150 works spanning various mediums, many of which will make their debut in the UK.

Gieve Patel, Off Lamington Road, 1982-86. Collection: Kiran Nadar Museum of Art, New Delhi © Gieve Patel. Courtesy Galerie Mirchandani + Steinruecke and Kiran Nadar Museum of Art.

Between the declaration of the State of Emergency by Indira Gandhi in 1975 and the Pokhran Nuclear Tests in 1998, artists navigated a complex socio-political landscape, blending social commentary with personal innovation. Themes of gender, communal politics, urbanisation, and evolving class structures found expression through diverse artistic practices, including painting, sculpture, photography, installation, and film. Through the lens of renowned artists like Bhupen Khakhar, Nalini Malani, and Arpita Singh, a unique insight into India's late 20th-century art scene will be presented.

The Barbican will host an exhibition dedicated to the evolution of Indian art. Alongside this, they will also host a curated film programme. Photo by Lawrence Chismorie.

Complementing the exhibition, Barbican Cinemas will host a curated film programme that echoes the thematic essence of the artwork. This collaboration underscores the Barbican's commitment to interdisciplinary programming, offering a holistic experience that transcends traditional gallery displays. The Imaginary Institution of India: Art 1975-1998 will offer an intriguing transformative journey through India's artistic heritage, inviting audiences to explore its rich tapestry of history, politics, and culture.

Click here to discover more art exhibitions to see in London in 2024.

Date: 5 October 2024 – 5 January 2025. Location: Barbican Art Gallery. Website: barbican.org.uk.