Welcome to another immersive Viewing Room, this time featuring the intricate and thought-provoking work Jali (Variation I) by Viraj Mithani, an interdisciplinary artist whose practice delves into the intersections of culture, materiality, and identity.

 

Viraj Mithani is an accomplished artist and educator whose work blends abstraction and representation to explore themes of identity, heritage, and modernity. His creative approach draws from his personal experiences, cultural theories, and historical narratives. Mithani’s leadership in the Carpe Art group and his pandemic initiative, Carpe Art Supports, reflect his dedication to nurturing contemporary Indian art and supporting fellow artists.

  • Featured Artwork:

    Jali (Variation I)
    Inspired by the intricate architectural jalis (latticed stone screens) and inlay techniques prevalent in Indian architecture, this artwork serves as...

    Jali (Variation 1), W 3.66 ft X H 4 ft (Original)

    Inspired by the intricate architectural jalis (latticed stone screens) and inlay techniques prevalent in Indian architecture, this artwork serves as a bridge between the material and spiritual worlds. Jali (Variation I) reflects on India's architectural heritage while engaging in a deeper conversation about cultural dualities, as articulated by theorist Partha Chatterjee in his book Mapping the Nation.

     

    The piece embodies the tension Chatterjee describes between the "inner" and "outer" domains of identity—where the material, seen in the mastery of architectural forms and craftsmanship, contrasts with the spiritual, representing the essence of cultural identity. Jali (Variation I) transforms this debate into a visual language by blending geometry, texture, and symbolic motifs.

  • A Unique Embroidery Translation

    The intricate threadwork mimics the fluidity of brushstrokes, adding both depth and dynamic movement to the artwork. A blend of...

    Jali (Variation 1), W 3.66 ft X H 4 ft (Embroidered)

     

    The intricate threadwork mimics the fluidity of brushstrokes, adding both depth and dynamic movement to the artwork. A blend of cotton and silk threads is expertly applied so that, from a distance, the stitches seamlessly merge to create a harmonious whole, yet up close, each section reveals its own distinct and detailed craftsmanship.

     

    The piece achieves depth and luminosity, honoring the tactile beauty of hand-embroidery while staying true to Mithani’s vision. Mithani’s exploration in Jali (Variation I) bridges traditional Indian craftsmanship with contemporary narratives, encouraging viewers to reflect on how cultural identities are preserved and transformed. By reinterpreting architectural motifs, he challenges viewers to consider the enduring relevance of historical forms in modern discourse.