India’s rich and complex heritage is mirrored in its diverse representations of art, its vibrant ethnic culture, and the eternal passion of its people to preserve it all. The country has witnessed a number of art revolutions in every era; and while a few new-world facets have been seamlessly assimilated, the essence has always remained the same.
Among the few key players in the art arena is curator and proprietor of the Sharan Apparao Gallery, a person also responsible for presenting this culture to the younger generation, albeit with a modern spin. On the evolution of art culture in the country over the last few decades, Sharan says, “Art content and forms have changed over the years. Back in the day, artworks were more straightforward and academic in nature, while now they are more conceptual. Realistic representation and a critical appreciation are missing in today’s scenario. Over the years, I’ve also noticed that clients’ tastes have evolved. As a consumer’s market, Chennai is still playing it safe, while collectors from other parts of the country are more experimental.”
Art has also made the transition from being a prominent tradition to now becoming a commercial commodity. Sharan explains, “The mindset has shifted; today art connoisseurs as well as amateur collectors opt for edgy and conceptual pieces of art with a conservative streak. A lot of experimentation has seeped in.”
A graduate in fine arts from Stella Maris College with a certified course from Harvard University, it wasn’t until 1983 when Sharan had the opportunity to curate an exhibition of Chinese artworks that her destiny in the art business was sealed. “I always knew I wanted to get into art, but initially people were sceptical about me, as I had no experience. I first went to the Cholamandal Artists’ Village with a proposal for show but was turned down. Then I went to M.F. Husain and he took a leap of faith, so my second show as a curator was with him,” she reminisces.
Since Chennai is also her hometown, Sharan takes a walk down memory lane recollecting the city’s various shades and gauging its changes over the years. “I am absolutely fortunate to have been born and brought up in Chennai. I absolutely adore this city and wouldn’t trade it for any other place. Nothing much has changed here, except the fact that there are a lot more youngsters now,” she says smiling.