Pearl Academy invites everyone to experience ‘Gandhi Natura Colore,’ an inspiring exhibition that beautifully blends art, sustainability and the spirit of Gandhi, connecting hearts and minds across India, Italy and Australia, SAKSHI PRIYA
In a world often clouded by challenges, art emerges as a vibrant source of hope and inspiration. The “Gandhi Natura Colore” exhibition, hosted by Pearl Academy, was a beautiful celebration that captivated audiences with its profound tribute to Mahatma Gandhi’s enduring legacy. This unique event brought together international artists to explore themes of peace, sustainability, and the interconnectedness of humanity and nature. Held simultaneously in New Delhi, Rome and Sydney, the exhibition crafted a powerful dialogue around critical global issues, reminding us of the transcendent nature of art in enriching understanding and connection.
This collaborative effort brought together creative talents from Pearl Academy in India, DESART2 Associasione Culturale in Italy and DE LUCA 1937 / StudioLab in Australia. The initiative celebrated the beauty of nature, the importance of colour and the principles of sustainable living that Gandhi espoused. The concept this year focused on reconnecting with nature, with artists in Rome creating pigments from vegetable and fruit waste. In India, students engaged in a unique process where they interviewed hundreds of individuals to determine the first word that came to mind when thinking of Gandhi. They then utilised AI to generate concepts, connecting back to nature in the age of technology.
This innovative approach showcased how traditional crafts can be revived, inspiring artisans to explore new possibilities in their work.
From the moment one enters the exhibition, the beauty of the artworks is striking. Each piece reflects the artists’ creativity and passion, capturing Gandhi’s ideals of Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truth) and Sarvodaya (welfare of all). The thoughtfully arranged displays invite viewers to immerse themselves in the rich narratives each artwork conveys, creating an atmosphere alive with inspiration and purpose.
One standout piece that captivated many was “Ahimsa”. The vibrant pigments on natural fibre canvas vividly reflect Gandhi’s belief that a nation’s greatness is judged by how it treats animals. The portrayal of the alarming decline of bee populations serves as a stunning reminder of the urgent need for environmental stewardship. The delicate brushwork and colour choices drew viewers in, allowing them to appreciate not only the technical skill involved but also the emotional weight of the subject matter.
Another remarkable work was “Hope”. This exquisite textile artwork, made from khadi voile, beautifully symbolises Gandhi’s inner peace and strength during his imprisonment. The swirling patterns and soft shades of blue evoke a sense of serenity, while subtle hints of saffron and green connect the piece to India’s cultural heritage. The intricate textures resembling ripples on a calm pond further enhance its visual appeal, inviting viewers to reflect on the concept of hope as a quiet yet powerful force.
The textile artwork “The Light Within” is another piece that left a lasting impression. This work showcases a profound connection to both artistic inspiration and cultural heritage. Inspired by Rothko, this patchwork artwork employs hand-dyed, hand-spun fabrics to create layers of luminous colour. The way the colours blend and radiate light mesmerises onlookers, highlighting the complexity and beauty of Gandhi’s teachings. The meticulous stitching and thoughtful arrangement of fabric pieces add depth to the composition, encouraging viewers to contemplate the themes of illumination and transcendence
A particularly exciting highlight was the INTERNATIONAL LAB EXPERIENCE, a collaboration between Pearl Academy and the Beijing Institute of Fashion Technology (BIFT). Visitors were enchanted by the students’ innovative exploration of Kantha embroidery, creating a fabric collection that harmoniously blends Indian and Chinese folklore. The intricate designs and vibrant colours reflect a shared cultural narrative, showcasing the beauty of collaboration and the power of art to bridge divides.
“Gandhi Natura Colore” was not just an exhibition; it was an enriching experience that engaged the audience on multiple levels. The stunning artworks, each a unique expression of creativity and thoughtfulness, sparked conversations about contemporary global challenges, urging viewers to reflect on their role in promoting sustainability and compassion in a world that often feels disconnected.
This beautiful art exhibition invites all to embrace Gandhi’s principles of peace and sustainability. The artworks, from “Ahimsa” addressing the treatment of animals to “Hope” embodying resilience, collectively honour the spirit of Gandhi. Visitors are inspired and motivated to contribute to a more sustainable and compassionate world, reminding us that art holds the power to ignite change and deepen our connections with one another and the environment.
Photos: Pankaj Kumar
