Young, new tastemakers make a mark

From young conservationists in Alwar to determined collectors from abroad, new players are shaking up the cultural landscape

- Abhilasha Ojha

(above) Janaki Kumari and Manavendra Pratap Singh; Arthshila Patna auditorium.

The fading murals in the royal palace of Bundi are regaining some of their vibrancy with restoration work that started in 2020 under the watchful eye of siblings Janaki Kumari and Manavendra Pratap Singh from Alwar's erstwhile royal family.

In their 20s, they are not just rescuing a part of history but also creating a wealth of scholarship around these significant 16th century murals.

At Arthshila, a different kind of bridge is being created—one that spans geographies, communities and disciplines. Ever since it first opened its doors to the public in 2016, it has grown into a network of multi-art centres across Ahmedabad, Santiniketan, Goa, Delhi and Kochi. The opening of Arthshila Patna in January marks the next chapter in this journey. Situated on Bailey Road, it comes with a reading room, auditorium, galleries and a children’s experience centre.

The art landscape of the country is at an interesting stage. There is a greater visibility of Indian artists internationally. Within the country, new spaces are opening up. The art world is looking beyond the usual hubs to start micro fests, niche museums and exhibition spaces housed in refurbished nightclubs and warehouses. In recent years, new curators, conservators and collectors have emerged to broaden the landscape.