Artist Pragati Sharma Mohanty reinterprets Sita’s journey from the Ramayana in her solo exhibition, “Daughter of the Earth,” at the Richmond Art Center, showcasing a blend of traditional and contemporary art.
Artist Pragati Sharma Mohanty is set to unveil her solo exhibition titled “Daughter of the Earth” at the Richmond Art Center. This exhibition delves into the epic Ramayana through a modern lens, centering on the poignant story of Sita.
The exhibition is the culmination of six years of dedicated research and artistic exploration. It features an impressive array of works, including paintings, sculptural installations, divine totems, and a remarkable 100-foot-long hand-written Sanskrit manuscript. Mohanty presents Sita as a multifaceted woman grappling with themes of exile, abduction, and societal judgment, ultimately leading to her profound decision to return to the earth.
In her artistic approach, Mohanty employs a distinctive maximalist-miniaturist storytelling style to reinterpret this ancient epic. She skillfully paints with gouache and acrylic on laser-cut rice paper, which is then collaged onto intricately detailed backdrops that showcase elements of flora, fauna, and architecture. This unique technique facilitates fluid compositions and the incorporation of recurring motifs throughout her body of work. Beyond the paintings, the exhibition also features sculptural elements and interactive installations designed to engage viewers and immerse them in the narrative.
Born and raised in India, Pragati Sharma Mohanty often draws inspiration from folklore, history, and the rich visual traditions of her cultural heritage. Her background in architecture and industrial design lends a structural sensibility to her intricate, layered compositions. Mohanty earned her Bachelor of Architecture from the Faculty of Architecture in Lucknow and a Master of Industrial Design from the National Institute of Design in Ahmedabad.
Throughout her career, Mohanty has showcased her work in various solo exhibitions, including those at the Palo Alto Arts Center, Charter Oak Cultural Center, and Sattology. She is also the founder of the Pragati Art School, which emphasizes the teaching of Indian folk art traditions. This school serves as a creative hub for immigrant communities, fostering a space where heritage and artistic practice can converge.
As “Daughter of the Earth” opens at the Richmond Art Center, it promises to offer a fresh perspective on Sita’s story, inviting viewers to reflect on the complexities of her character and the broader themes of the Ramayana.
According to a press release, the exhibition is set to be a significant cultural event, highlighting Mohanty’s innovative approach to storytelling through art.