1.   Introduction 

Hello, Singapore! Thank you for having me here.

Since moving to Singapore, I’ve immersed myself in its vibrant multicultural scene. I’ve loved exploring art from diverse cultures, including Chinese, Indonesian, Malay, Japanese, Korean, and even Middle Eastern.

These encounters have revealed new historical insights and underscored a powerful truth: despite our differences, the underlying philosophies across our cultures remain the same.

As Taoism suggests ‘All beings are interconnected and part of the same cosmic flow’.

This concept of oneness—the philosophy of shared existence—resonates across various cultures, including Christianity, Sufism, Hinduism, and Buddhism.

Yet, with the ever increasing complexities and layers of our diverse traditions, it can sometimes feel difficult to grasp!

It’s at times like these art acts as a bridge builder, fostering connection and mutual respect for those who unlike us!

• Love and War.
• Prosperity and Poverty.
• Capitalism and Socialism.
• Inner peace and Anxiety.
• Heritage and Modernization.
• These are just a few of the many dualities that define our existence!
• We may be from the East or we may hail from the West. However, family bonding, spirituality, parenthood, migration, health, climate change, our ancestors struggle - these are issues that resonate with us and evoke an emotion in all of us.

Why not use these commonalities as stepping stones to deepen our understanding of diverse cultures?

Join me in a journey to ‘discover the shared commonality across cultures using art as a lens’ as we will explore the works of three eminent Indian artists.

Artists have served as a mirror to society by reflecting two key ideas throughout different time periods:

Firstly, the timeless wisdom of cultures of our oneness; as Ubuntu philosophy from Africa expresses  “I Am Because We Are”

Secondly, the need for collective action - the need to band together for the greater good of humanity.

  Jagannath Panda

A.   Artist Introduction: Jagannath Panda is one of the finest contemporary artists, celebrated for his diverse conceptual art, which encompasses paintings, mixed media, sculptures and public installations. His thought-provoking works have been showcased in prestigious exhibitions worldwide, making a lasting impact on global audiences.

B.   Approach:Jagan's work unfolds on the canvas as he embarks on a Journey Inside and Out. As the artist embraces cultural and geographical diversity, he distills existing cultural knowledge with new philosophies and these ideas  to create complex narratives with a global perspective. Narratives that are as multidimensional in approach as they are in technique.

C.   Japan, A Journey into Minimalism (Artwork): During his art research in Japan in 1997, the artist drew inspiration from On Kawara and began creating more minimalist works. The Spirit of Ground, Japan is a 1997 collaboration with Japanese artist Abe Mamoru. This igloo installation, crafted from locally sourced grass, features a small entrance that invites visitors inside. Natural light filters through the dome's peak, illuminating the space. Inside, viewers find representations of Mount Fuji's snow-capped peaks, releasing wisps of smoke that embody beauty and power of the volcano. The installation is influenced by the Kami belief in Shinto philosophy, which suggests that spirits and deities inhabit everything. It reflects deep respect for nature and the interconnectedness of all things.

The Spirit of Ground, Japan | Collaborative project between Jagannath Panda and Japanese artist Abe Mamuru. Year: 1997| Source: Jagannath Panda  | Collaborative project with Japanese artist  Abe Mamuru 1997

 

 

A.   Postcard Series: Upon returning to India, Jagannath continued his preference for a minimalistic style. Featured here is a collage from his postcard series, created in response to the cyclones in Odisha. The postcard depicts Gandhi planting a tree, conveying the artist hope that each person should contribute by planting a tree. The artwork stresses on the need for collective action to save our planet.

Letter To Gandhi | Collage, Ink, Pencil and Watercolor on Paper | Year: 1999 |  Source: Jagannath Panda  | C

B.   London: A Fresh Perspective. As the artist neared the completion of his MFA, Sculpture at Royal Academy of Arts in London the artist immersed himself in western philosophies. During this time he created this sphere from fiberglass and dictionary text. The sculpture shows how words and meanings change with each reading, especially in a diverse society. Language is shaped by social norms and cultural contexts. Even our personal experiences reveal deeper meanings.

 C.   Gurgaon:  A Home Amidst Transformation. Upon returning to India, the artist chose to make Gurgaon, a rapidly developing city, his home. He became a keen observer of the stark effects of rapid urbanization. The once-rolling green Aravali hills were being encroached upon, natural habitats were dwindling, and farmlands were disappearing right before his eyes. While the city offered a sense of utopia for some residents, it also evoked a deep sense of loss for others. Jagan’s work starts incorporating tales of personal sanctuary within chaotic cities, Environmental Equilibrium, and Economic Relocation.

• Untitled Artwork, 2005 : Peacocks, once commonly seen, are now becoming a fleeting memory. In this artwork, they serve as a visual metaphor for displacement. Below, houses feature smoke rising from food cooked over fire, and red chilies spread out to dry in the sun, reflecting traditional Indian households. The artist skillfully contrasts traditional and modern worlds, emphasizing the need for balance—urging us to embrace modernity while also valuing timeless wisdom.
• Migrant, Anywhere, Anytime. 2009 (Artwork): The innocence and despair in the deer’s eyes powerfully reflect its struggle in the jungle of consumerism, illustrated by plastic bottles in its antlers and shirts hanging from its body. This displaced creature symbolizes economic migrants who, while yearning for their homeland, attempt to find a sense of home amidst chaotic cities.

Migrant, Anywhere, Anytime. | Acrylic Fabric and Glue | Year: 2009 | Source: Jagannath Panda 

 D.   Cultural Mosaic: A Reflection of Diverse Journeys. Jagan  deconstructs and reconstructs powerful narratives with global appeal. The artist uses rich fabrics in his mixed media works like brocade as an ode to India’s rich textile history

•   Springs of Sublime, installed at GVK Airport Mumbai, best exemplifies the evolution of Jagan's work. The installation features a stretched map of India, transforming the landscape into a visual that emerges when using software tools to stretch the map to 180 degrees. It represents India's expansive terrains while exploring the concepts of time and distance between cities, marked by milestones indicating their distance between landmark cities. Beautiful fabric trees line the landscape, while flying objects reminiscent of Japanese sci-fi soar across the vast expanse. Take a closer look, and you will also spot Lord Ganesh and his devotees.The Springs of Sublime, 2016 | Mixed Media on Canvas | Installation at Mumbai Airpor  

II.    Gardener of The World - I, 2023 is a recent work by Jagan.

1. Context: To fully appreciate this artwork, it’s essential to look back in time. In the Mahabharata, the great Indian epic, Arjuna grapples with the morality of the war. This moment centers on Lord Krishna revealing his universal form, Vishwaroopa, to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. Arjuna witnesses countless faces, eyes, and forms, representing all aspects of creation and destruction.

2. Philosophy: Vishwaroopa symbolizes the interconnectedness of all beings and Transient nature of our Existence.

Gardener of the World - I | 2023 | Acrylic, Fabric and Glue on canvas | Source: Jagannath Panda  

C.   These concepts are  brought to life by Jagan in this work.  The movement on the canvas signifies different time zones and with various shapes and sizes appearing and vanish just like they appear in Vishwaroopa. The strong architectural elements that have been a signature in Jagan’s recent works,also  serve as a metaphor for the layers within society. Its not just a commentary on the ever evolving nature of our cities but ourselves. It suggests that material attachments and identities, much like these city elements, are temporary, while the soul is eternal.

        3. Shampa Sircar Das:

An Exploration of Consciousness and Transience

3A. Artist Introduction: Shampa Sircar Das is an artist who is on an eternal quest to discover a common matrix among humans, where harmony prevails and conflict is absent. An established artist based in Delhi, she holds postgraduate degree from Jamia Millia Islamia. Her art embodies the interplay of inner knowledge (vidya) and the external world (vimarsha)

3B. Approach: Shampa’s creative process begins beyond the studio, rooted in her travels and interactions with local artisans—such as weavers and potters. Her canvases fuse mythology and nature and navigate layers of consciousness.

3C. The Himalayan Terrain: Exploring the Depths of Consciousness

•   Philosophy: At the turn of the 21st century, Shampa visited Ladakh, Spiti and the North East was captivated by its beauty and vastness. This experience sparked a meditative series of works influenced by her time spent in Buddhist monasteries and her meditative practices.  Shampa integrated scriptures and murals into her art, enhancing her exploration of spiritual themes and enriching her art with Buddhist calligraphy. 
• The artist incorporates common concepts and auspicious and revered symbols across cultures:  concepts like the five elements and symbols like the lotus, bell, shell and mountains signify new beginnings and auspiciousness. 
•  Dharmakaya(Artwork) : Dharmakaya represents the ultimate truth in Buddhism.. It signifies the formless, transcendent aspect of enlightenment. It  embodies wisdom, compassion, and the interconnectedness of all beings. Drawing from both Buddhism and Hinduism, it seeks common ground. At the center is a figure that appears like Buddha, flanked by representations of the sun and moon.It is not Buddha himself, but the Buddhas within us that are depicted in this art.

The white elephant, considered auspicious in Buddhist and Tibetan traditions, symbolizes Buddha’s birth. Maya, Buddha's mother, dreamt of a white elephant entering her womb. This journey of elephant from a black a white one, reflects the transition of a human from a wild, untamed self to self-awareness and enlightenment.

Dharmakaya by SHampa Sircar  | Acrylic on Canvas 

3D. Shunyata: Embracing the Essence of Nothingness

• Shunyata Philosophy: Shampa explores the concept of Shunyata, emphasized in both Hinduism and Buddhism. Shunyata highlights the emptiness of all phenomena and the yet interconnectedness of existence, teaching that nothing possesses inherent identity.
•  Endless (Artwork): The endless knots above the figure symbolize a presence without beginning or end, resonating with the hindu philosophy of "shasvat kale," which references the cylical nature of time - it highlights the transient nature of our existence. The central monk embodies meditation, representing the belief that deep meditation merges the body with the environment. ,the  boundaries  blurred and we become one matter . The artist hopes the series will inspire viewers to ponder why the world is at war when the foundation of all life is the same, than why are we in a constant tussle.

Endless by Shampa Sircar  | Acrylic on Canvas

3E. Evolving Visions: Modern Interpretations of Goddess

• Philosophy: The artist reflects on the evolving status of women in society. Since time immemorial, Hinduism has worshiped and revered women as manifestations of the Devi, elevating them to a status much higher than given everyday by a patriarchal society.In this series, Shampa brings to life modern reinterpretations of our goddesses, exploring the virtues of Goddesses that humanity must embody -  the qualities that can empower women. She prompts users to ponder on how we can foster a more equitable society.
• Kali (Artwork): The silent protest among women inspired Kali, as they rise against societal injustices and seek quiet resolution to restore balance in the world. Inspired by a group of women in Bihar who banded together and protested marriage.
• Devi (Artwork): Featured here is Devi, the epitome of feminine strength, portrayed in Vedic texts as a goddess of prowess, power, determination, and wisdom.

3F. Pandemic Reflections: Celebrating Nature’s Resilience

• Philosophy: During the pandemic, like many others, Shampa spent her time indoors reflecting. She drew inspiration from the realization that while everything else was in isolation, nature remained free to bloom and flourish. This gave birth to the animal figurines series the  Mriga, the Deer and Mayura, the Peacock series. This is a meditative body of work that honors nature while also exploring overarching philosophical concepts and mythological references. During this time, the artist also incorporated elements from Indian miniature art, emphasizing forms that draw attention to larger concepts, regardless of proportion.
• Mayura (artwork): Mayura, the peacock, serves as the vahana (vehicle) of the goddess Saraswati, who embodies knowledge, music, and the arts. Remarkably, it also symbolizes the celebration of life.

Mayura | Acrylic on Canvas

Mriga (artwork): The deer’s portrayal in the Ramayana is prominent; the beautiful creature symbolizes the fleeting desires ; desires that humans endlessly pursue.

Mriga | Acrylic on Canvas

 3. Kamar Alam:

Art as a Lifelong Companion and an Evolving Journey

3A. Artist Introduction: Kamar Alam, an eminent visual artist born in 1979 in the lush and hilly town of Dehradun, pursued his Master of Visual Arts from Lalit Kala Sansthan, Agra, in 2005.  .  Kamars art transcends geographical boundaries;  While his works appear simplistic, they embody a profound meditative essence,  delving deep into inner reflections and spirituality.. Additionally, he serves as an art consultant, contributing to Public Art Projects  that impact the world through his creative vision.

3B. Approach: Kamar Alam believes in the power of simplicity.Kamar's focus and vision from the very beginning have been centered on creating art that is simplistic in thought and form. His primary purpose is to spread joy, peace, and spirituality through his work. 

3C. Vision of the Void: Kamar Alam's fascination with the void—an empty yet profound expanse—emerged in his early college works. He began to explore these concepts through space-themed pieces that intertwined his personal experiences with broader global issues, such as the destruction of the Bamiyan statues. In these works, he depicted a Buddha-like figure on the moon's surface, symbolizing the Supreme as the Universe. (Featured Artworks : Universe III)

Universe Composition by Kamar Alam  | Oil on Canvas

 3D. Expanding Horizons Through Geometry and Space:

• As Kamar Alam’s style evolved, he began to explore the vastness of space and the interplay of geometric shapes like rectangles and circles. During this period, he was particularly inspired by Mark Rothko, whose minimalist yet impactful work encouraged him to further investigate simplicity and depth in his own art.
•   Father’s Hand (Artwork): Kamar is deeply inspired by his father's hands, viewing them as a powerful symbol of the immense toil involved in shaping a life. This physical element is imbued with emotion and wisdom. Reflecting on the life he has nurtured, Kamar envisions it becoming free and independent. He believes that in doing so, it will return to place a hand on his shoulder, and he feels certain of this connection.

Father’s Hand by Kamar Alam  | Oil On Canvas

3E.  Evolving Forms and Self: As Kamar’s work evolved, so did the forms and symbols

• Evolving:Evolving is an artwork that emphasizes the importance of staying  positive. With closed eyes, it captures moments of meditation in the artist's life, reflecting a sense of interconnectedness. This piece also suggests that countless thoughts pass through our minds each day, highlighting the significance of nurturing positive thoughts and allowing them to flourish. Our experiences and reflections come together to shape a more evolved, wiser, and peaceful self.

Evolving I | Oil on Canvas

• Flowing in The Source (Artwork): The "Floating Human Figure" series marked a significant turning point in Kamar's journey. These figures represent his ongoing exploration of the infinite space created by a higher power, not physically, but metaphorically through thoughts and introspection. This series embodies movement, freedom & the exploration of self within the vastness of existence.

Flowing in the Source | Oil on Canvas

 3F. Believing Series: In the "Believing" series, Kamar's work adopted a grounded approach, embodying rootedness and stability. This phase reflects his aspirations for the greater good, the interconnectedness of humanity, and the significance of growth tied to one’s origins. It also represents deep introspection and a commitment to contribute to collective growth and positive action.

Believing I | Oil and Acrylic on Canvas

4. Conclusion: 

Creative expression helps us find our shared commonalities, as we transcend boundaries of geography, culture, and society.

I sincerely hope the artworks we viewed today will remind  you to celebrate diversity- not just in ethnicity, but in thought and experience. In a world filled with conflict, these expressions encourage us to stay open minded and practice empathy.

My parting advice to young minds: While it’s comfortable to work with familiar people, true growth comes from stepping outside our comfort zones and engaging with new perspectives. We’re lucky to be in Singapore, a cultural hub that brings together different cultures seamlessly. Always be open to exploring something new!