Pooja Bajaj, Director, Kamalnayan Bajaj Art Gallery, On Mentorship Programmes, The Exhibition ‘Peripheral Shades’ And More

Pooja Bajaj, Director of the Kamalnayan Bajaj Art Gallery, expressed her vision for mentorship programs, stating that they aim to create the conditions for artists to discover their own voice. She emphasized that such programs should foster critical dialogue, honest reflection, and the necessary time for artistic practice to evolve. The gallery's larger objective is to build an ecosystem where artists can sustain their practice independently, regardless of their location or proximity to established art centers.

The exhibition 'Peripheral Shades' is Bajaj's latest venture, and she discussed its inspiration and purpose. This exhibition is a collaborative effort with FAANDEE and curator Nikhil Purohit, marking their third collaboration. Their shared belief is that art should transcend established circuits to discover new voices and perspectives.

'Peripheral Shades' aims to decentralize the art ecosystem by recognizing existing artistic conversations in remote locations such as Navi Mumbai. Through studio visits and open dialogue, the initiative connects with artists in these areas, discovering diverse perspectives.

Bajaj also provided insight into her definition of art in today's context. She asserts that art is not merely about visual perception, but about reshaping how we perceive the world. Art challenges familiar narratives, gives form to unspoken experiences, and creates connections across different realities. Its relevance lies in its ability to question, provoke, and expand our understanding of the world, transcending aesthetic value.