Suhani Ahuja, a budding artist with a rich family legacy
of creativity, has set out to make use of her work as a catalyst for social
change. “Art has the power to voice the unspoken, to challenge the status quo,
and to inspire change,” she states. “Through ‘Her Astitva’, I hope to start conversations
about the complex realities women face in our society.”
The exhibition explores the paradoxical
treatment of women in society – they are regarded as goddesses but are
constrained by norms. Each piece in the collection is a raw confrontation with
the roles imposed upon women, touching on sensitive topics such as marriage,
widowhood, menstruation, molestation, trafficking, and the silence surrounding
abuse.
Through a diverse range of works, from oil on
canvas to mixed media installations featuring wood, canvas, cloth, threads,
mail and fabrics, the exhibition challenges traditional norms and stereotypes.
“My art seeks to reveal the clear divide
between a woman’s societal image and her suppressed reality,” Suhani explains.
“It’s about giving voice to the struggles endured in silence and the fight for
autonomy.”
Her artistic journey is deeply influenced by
her 13-year background in classical Kathak dance. This training has shaped her
understanding of rhythm and colour, infusing her artwork with a unique vibrancy
and depth. “Dance has taught me to see the world through a different lens,” she
reflects. “It’s this perspective that I bring to my creations.”
In a commendable move, all proceeds from the
exhibition, including sales from Suhani’s sustainable fabric jewellery brand
‘Re #Hash by Suhani’, will be donated to the Shakti Foundation. This initiative
aligns with her vision of art as a medium for social impact.
The exhibition has garnered attention from
notable figures, including Miss Bansuri Swaraj, a member of parliament, Lok
Sabha New Delhi. In a message of support, Swaraj stated, “Ms. Suhani Ahuja’s
exhibition beautifully captures the strength, struggles, and indomitable spirit
of women through art. I am sure her work reflects the depth of these experiences
with grace and passion.”
Guest of Honour for the event is Mr Nawal
Kishore, an esteemed visual artist known for his striking representations of
the female form. His presence adds another layer of artistic dialogue to the
exhibition, bridging generations of artists dedicated to exploring feminine
themes.
‘Her Astitva’ has become a call to question,
inviting viewers to confront uncomfortable truths and join the conversation
about women’s rights and societal expectations.
As Suhani puts it, “I believe that art can be
a powerful tool for storytelling and connection. Through this exhibition, I
hope to inspire others to find their own voices and use creativity as a means
for positive change in the world.”
The exhibition promises to be a pivotal event
in Delhi’s art scene, offering a fresh perspective on age-old issues through
the eyes of a young, passionate artist. It shows the power of art in driving
social awareness and change, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts and
social activists alike.