Princess Pea’s latest exhibition uses turmeric and the shade of indigo to define the character and strength of Draupadi
The earthy aroma of turmeric greets you as you enter the newly-renovated gallery, Exhibit 320 at lado Sarai. A few steps further and you will see the yellow household staple in every corner, used aesthetically, to create unique body of works.
Exploring the edges of contemporary art in the realm of socio-mythological gender stereotype, these turmeric installations are by artist Princess Pea (alter ego of a Delhi-based artist). Titled Born out of Fire, these works are are an ode to princess Draupadi who is known as daughter of King Drupada and wife of five Pandavas but is rarely referred as ‘princess.’
In this chapter, Princess Pea reinstates herself as princess Draupadi, the Ágnijyotsana. Using turmeric, a household staple that cures and purifies, Princess Pea alludes to the symbolic birth of Draupadi from fire — an element that reflects the warrior princess’ character as all-consuming and never stagnant. Fire is also gold and so Princess Pea embodies the idea of ‘soney ki chidiya’, the golden daughter.
Says Princess Pea, “Though Draupadi existed in mythology but even today we continue to identify with her conflicts and sufferings. The show explores the idea of identity, self-worth, the conflict between traditional and contemporary roles of women in Indian society and the ever prevalent issues.”
One can see ample use of turmeric (haldi) in the works which depict healing, purity and power. There are installations, video art and wall art. There’s a two feet installation showing Princess Pea holding lotus in one hand and the other one resting, made with turmeric powder, depicting the calm posture of Draupadi.
Another interesting element is indigo (neel) in the works. Withneel — the blue pigment, the artist has illustrated the relationship between Draupadi and Krishna. ‘Blue’, a symbol of Krishna, is all pervasive and omni-potent, instilling Draupadi with confidence as she forges ahead as her fierce self.Neel is also used here to suggest a way of measuring and enhancing her purity.
Says Rasika Kajaria, director, Exhibit 320, “The new body of work presented by the artist is a continuation of the previously explored ideas of weaving together narratives and mythologies of the feminine. This creates an as yet, untold story of the ‘woman’.”