Art Vanguards of Rajasthan – Rasa Panchaka, curated by Nikhat Ansari, will be held from 24th to 30th April 2026 at the Visual Art Gallery. The exhibition opens on 24th April at 5:00 PM and will remain on view daily from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The show brings together five artists whose works explore diverse interpretations of tradition, memory, and lived experience.
Concept of Rasa Panchaka
The exhibition is structured around the idea of “Rasa Panchaka,” representing five distinct artistic expressions. Each artist contributes a unique perspective rooted in cultural narratives and emotional depth, creating a dialogue between heritage and contemporary thought. The curatorial approach focuses on how traditional forms can evolve while retaining their cultural essence.
Artists and Their Practices
The exhibition features works by:
- Shail Choyal
- Ankit Patel
- Purna Chandra Kishan
- Dharmendra Rathore
- Chandra Shekhar Sain
Each artist engages with different mediums and themes, ranging from painting and sculpture to terracotta and mixed media, reflecting a wide spectrum of artistic practices from Rajasthan.
Revisiting Tradition Through Contemporary Lenses
Shail Choyal’s work revisits the intricate detailing of Rajasthani miniature painting, presenting it in a contemporary format. Ankit Patel’s sculptural practice draws from rural life, capturing personal memories and everyday experiences. Together, their works highlight how traditional aesthetics can be reinterpreted in modern contexts.
Nature, Mythology, and Philosophy
Purna Chandra Kishan explores the relationship between Nari and Prakriti, presenting them as interconnected entities while addressing environmental concerns through layered compositions. Dharmendra Rathore’s works engage with mythology and philosophical traditions, including Buddhist thought, creating narratives that bridge historical and contemporary realities.
Folk Traditions and Material Practices
Chandra Shekhar Sain works across terracotta and painting, combining Rajasthani folk traditions with contemporary themes. His works focus on rural life, cultural identity, and human emotion, offering a tactile and grounded perspective within the exhibition.
Exhibition Highlights
- Five artists presenting distinct yet interconnected practices
- Exploration of Rajasthani cultural heritage in contemporary art
- Use of diverse mediums including painting, sculpture, and terracotta
- Themes of memory, environment, mythology, and rural life
Venue and Visitor Information
| Aspects | Details |
| Event Name | Art Vanguards of Rajasthan – Rasa Panchaka |
| Artist | Shail Choyal, Ankit Patel, Purna Chandra Kishan, Dharmendra Rathore, Chandra Shekhar Sain |
| Venue | Visual Art Gallery, India Habitat Centre |
| City | New Delhi |
| Opening Date | 24th April 2026, 5:00 PM |
| Exhibition Dates | 24th – 30th April 2026 |
| Organiser | Curated by Nikhat Ansari |
| Entry / Tickets | Not specified |
| Website | https://www.indiahabitat.org |
For more details, visitors can explore the official website of the India Habitat Centre: https://www.indiahabitat.org
Takeaway
Art Vanguards of Rajasthan – Rasa Panchaka brings together diverse artistic voices that reflect both continuity and change within Rajasthani art practices. By engaging with tradition through contemporary perspectives, the exhibition offers viewers an opportunity to reflect on cultural identity, environment, and lived experience. It contributes to ongoing conversations in Indian art about how regional narratives can find relevance in a broader contemporary context.
