Lucknow— Innovation in art often walks hand in hand with uncertainty. While experimentation is considered essential to artistic growth, tradition remains an equally significant pillar. This tension between acceptance and resistance has historically accompanied every major artistic shift, said senior art critic Suman Singh during his visit to the College of Arts and Crafts at University of Lucknow.
Speaking at an interactive session, Singh reflected on past debates — from the arrival of acrylic colors, once resisted in favor of oil on canvas, to the prolonged argument over whether photography qualified as art. Over time, both mediums found acceptance, reshaping exhibition spaces across the country.
His remarks came during the presentation of “Ghar” — an interactive installation led by young faculty member Aniruddh Diwakar Acharya and his students. The participatory artwork invited viewers to navigate a maze of lines they created themselves, metaphorically searching for the meaning of “home.” Through guided questions on migration, freedom of movement, and choice, participants unknowingly produced spontaneous drawings.
The project engaged nearly 400 people across Lucknow, from laborers to teachers and students, blurring the line between artist and audience. The resulting works were exhibited on February 24 at the college, where visitors became active contributors rather than passive spectators.
Organizers noted that the initiative exemplifies New Media Art’s evolving aim — transforming viewers into participants and fostering meaningful social dialogue through installation and performance.
