Young artists to look out for at India Art Fair 2025

The 16th edition of the India Art Fair (IAF) is it most ambitious one yet. Currently taking place at Delhi's NSIC ground in Okhla, it brings together 120 exhibitors, including 78 galleries, and major regional and international art institutions.

- NOOR ANAND CHAWLA

Craft and design have separate designated areas. There are talks, performance art projects, large-scale installations and so much more.

Through its robust parallel programming, noteworthy art is also spread across the city. In the words of Jaya Asokan, the Fair's director, "India Art Fair continues in its mission to showcase the very best of South Asian art alongside major contemporary international artists and collectible design by pioneering studios, reinforcing its position as the leading site for the discovery of art and culture in the region." There is much to see and take in the work of masters and novices, as well as classic, modern and cuttingedge contemporary art.

In the midst of this artistic splendour, a few young artists stood out. Here is our roundup of the ones to watch for:

ANINDITA BHATTACHARYA (THRESHOLD ART GALLERY):

Delhi-based Bhattacharya apprenticed with the Kishangarh, Mughal and Persian schools of miniature painting in Rajasthan. The intricacy of detailing she learned there informs her experimental and thought provoking work. At the IAF, a work known as '(Re) Writing on the Wall' stands out in particular. Calling to mind the intricate jaalis of Mughal architecture, these delicate paper cut out artworks are spread across an entire wall. Their placement mimics seepage on the wall, highlighting a sense of decay - a message that is further enhanced through the Urdu lettering which recounts the learnings from important political texts.

VIRAJ KHANNA (KALAKRITI ART GALLERY):