Lucknow Hosts the Digital Art Extravaganza
Lucknow: In Lucknow, the Novembre Numérique 2024 exhibition was inaugurated at the Kala Srot Art Gallery, graced by the esteemed Chief Guest Dr. Vandana Sehgal, Principal of the Faculty of Architecture and Planning. She was joined by AFL President Pr. Nishi Pandey, AFL Director Nicolas Macé, and gallery director Mansi Didwania, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey into the intersection of art and technology. The exhibition, open daily from 12 PM to 8 PM until December 10, promises a unique experience of digital creativity for all visitors.
A Global Celebration of Digital Art
Novembre Numérique, an international festival celebrating the convergence of art and digital technology, has grown into a global phenomenon since its inception in 2017. Organized annually by the French Institute in India and the Alliance Française Network, the festival has expanded its reach to 15 cities in India this year, including Lucknow, New Delhi, Mumbai, Chandigarh, and Bengaluru. This year’s edition emphasizes virtual and augmented reality, interactive music, video games, and other innovations shaping modern artistic expression.
Dr. Vandana Sehgal’s Vision for the Future
During her address, Dr. Vandana Sehgal highlighted the profound implications of integrating technology with creativity. “Art and architecture are evolving rapidly in today’s digital age. Exhibitions like Novembre Numérique bridge the gap between traditional and contemporary art forms, creating a platform for dialogue and exploration,” she said.
Immersive Highlights of the Festival
- Manet’s A Bar at the Folies Bergère
Dive into the world of Édouard Manet’s masterpiece, exploring the Belle Époque through the eyes and thoughts of its characters. This emotional narrative, co-written by animation director Gabrielle Lissot, transforms this classic painting into an interactive, cinematic experience that reflects the era’s sophistication and mysteries. - Virtual Reality Adventures in Notre-Dame
Visitors can experience Notre-Dame Cathedral like never before. Through Ubisoft’s VR technology, they can explore the cathedral pre- and post-fire, from its nave to the iconic spire, while listening to the majestic Cavaillé-Coll Organ performing Bach. This journey bridges the gap between historical architecture and its modern restoration efforts. - Looki Look: Augmented Reality by Aurélien Jeanney
A standout feature of the festival, Looki Look uses the Maison Tangible app to animate colorful illustrations into interactive stories. From bustling Indian flower markets to serene temple sceneries, visitors can bring these visuals to life simply by scanning them with their devices. Jeanney also conducts workshops across India, fostering a deeper connection between AR and local audiences.
Building Indo-French Collaboration
Speaking about the festival’s broader objectives, Gregor Trumel, Cultural Counsellor and Director of the French Institute in India, emphasized the importance of fostering Indo-French collaborations in the digital space. “Novembre Numérique showcases the diversity of French digital innovation, enabling an exchange of ideas between our countries and highlighting the role of technology in storytelling and cultural preservation,” he said.
Redefining Art Through Technology
For many, the immersive experiences offered by Novembre Numérique redefine the way art is perceived and enjoyed. Nicolas Mace, Director of Alliance Française de Lucknow, noted, “These projects breathe new life into timeless creations, allowing audiences to interact with history and art in unprecedented ways.”
Lucknow as a Hub of Cultural Innovation
Lucknow’s participation in Novembre Numérique cements its place as a hub for cultural and technological advancements. With its rich history and a growing appetite for contemporary art forms, the city offers the perfect backdrop for this digital art festival.
Invitation to Explore
The exhibition invites art enthusiasts, technophiles, and the general public to witness the transformation of art in the digital era. Whether it’s experiencing the beauty of Notre-Dame Cathedral or interacting with Manet’s world, Novembre Numérique offers something extraordinary for everyone.
As the festival continues its run across India, Lucknow’s Kala Srot Art Gallery remains a vibrant epicenter of this artistic and technological celebration. Make sure to visit before December 10 and immerse yourself in the future of creativity!
