My work delves into the intertwined concepts of urbanization and
migration in present times. It is rooted in my personal experiences and
memories of growing up in a village, surrounded by lush green
landscapes, vibrant trees, and the harmonious coexistence of people
and nature. As I witness the transformation of these villages into
concrete jungles and housing colonies, my memories become more
pronounced. Living on the shifting periphery between rural and urban
spaces, I find that my subconscious mind is constantly influenced by
these memories, which resurface as motifs and images in my artwork.
Through my work, I aim to reflect upon the profound impact of this
rapid change, particularly on rural communities.
In recent decades, the pace of this transformation has been
unprecedented, especially in the realm of urban expansion. As an artist
based in Hyderabad, I have personally witnessed the rapid urbanization
and construction activities taking place. While the city is experiencing
growth in terms of real estate and planned infrastructure, the design
often lacks coherence, resulting in the irreversible disappearance of
Deccani vegetation, wildlife, natural soil, and rock formations. Through
my artistic expression, I seek to shed light on these issues and provoke
contemplation about the consequences of unchecked urbanization.
Also, the migration of people from rural and semi-urban areas has
profoundly impacted the city's demographics and visual landscape. the
city. This migration brings with it a wealth of memories - of land,
vegetation, animals, materials, and objects - as individuals adapt to their
new lives. However, as the city embraces them with new experiences,
old memories begin to fade. In my artistic practice, I strive to revive and represent
these lost, forgotten, and faded memories. I employ materials such as soil, wood,
and metal - readily available yet inherently valuable - to create visual forms. This
process allows me to reconnect with my own memories of village life, even as I
navigate the concrete jungle of the city. Through my work, I aim to provide respite
from the chaotic urban existence and offer a glimpse into the visual history of
migration, while also capturing the capricious nature of urbanized rural areas.
Initially, I worked with terracotta, using its historical significance in construction
and household objects to explore the complex relationship between cities and
nature. I sought to demonstrate that a balance can be struck between nature and
modern development. The use of soil in my artwork visualizes the rocky
landscapes and cartographic boundaries, while relief lines and geometric abstract
forms on wood symbolize the population within the cityscape, a product of
migration. Metal plates represent the influence of technocracy and reflect upon
the replacement of humans with machinery.
As we navigate the complexities of urbanization, it is crucial to reflect on the
consequences of our actions and strive for a sustainable future. My artwork serves
as a visual narrative, offering glimpses into the past while encouraging dialogue
about the present and future of our cities. It is a testament to the resilience of
individuals and communities in the face of change, and a reminder of the
importance of preserving our collective memories and experiences. Ultimately, it
aims to inspire viewers to reflect on their own connection with the ever-changing
urban landscape.
