Vibhor Sogani crafts a meditative design narrative in his short film 'Silent Subtext'

Artists often experiment with mediums to flex their creative muscles and push the boundaries of their art.

- NOOR ANAND CHAWLA

Artists often experiment with mediums to flex their creative muscles and push the boundaries of their art. For installation artist and designer Vibhor Sogani, this is a way of life. His most recent showcase was at the London Design Biennale 2025, which took place in June at the iconic Somerset House building. However, instead of creating an object or installation, he went against the grain to share his design story with a short cinematic film. Titled 'Silent Subtext - The Art of Vibhor Sogani', it was displayed at the India Pavilion of the Biennale.

Describing the work as a "quiet, reflective piece", Sogani invites viewers into his world, his unique use of materials, and his inherent design philosophy layered with emotional depth. The film was made in response to the theme of the Biennale this year - Surface Reflections. He explains, "The film explores how surfaces and their perception and meaning come together in my art, particularly through the use of stainless steel as a living, responsive material."

Sogani is best known for expansive projects like the distinctive steel orbs called 'Sprouts' that mark New Delhi's parks amidst flyovers, the metal tree in Ahmedabad known as Kalpavriksha, and his works in Amsterdam including Deepam, which consists of special metal diyas adorning lakes to mark the nation's 750 years, and Pool of Dreams. This film explores his artistic mindset, which is Indian in spirit but resonates around the globe.

The artist joins the Sunday Guardian for an exclusive chat about participating in the London Design Biennale, his film and more. Excerpts from an edited interview:

Q. Why did you decide to make a film as your entry to the biennale?