Unit 7’s most recent exhibition, titled “Gilded: States of Impermanence” by Shubha Taparia, is currently showcased at Prahlad Bubbar’s contemporary art space in North London. This exhibition introduces the artist’s latest sculptural creations, a captivating extension of her ongoing ‘Illumination’ series.
Within the exhibition, a new trio of sculptures takes centre stage, skilfully merging industrial tarp with the lavishness of gold leaf. The commonplace office chair, table, or bucket, typically overlooked in our modern workspaces, are transformed by the artist into objects of extraordinary beauty. Enveloped in a cloak of opulence – a 24-carat gold leaf coating – they transcend its mundane nature. This choice of material not only adds a touch of extravagance but also serves as a canvas for exploring the convergence of the ordinary and the magnificent. Shubha Taparia draws inspiration from the rich traditions of Indian painting, seamlessly incorporating elements that transcend cultural boundaries. Gold, a recurring motif in Indian art, traditionally symbolises divine and spiritual elements, and in the ‘Tarp’ series, it infuses a sense of spiritual essence into seemingly ordinary objects. Viewers are invited to reflect on the spiritual potential within the commonplace as they engage with the artwork.
Continuing the artist’s exploration of the inside and outside of objects, their appearance, and essence, previously seen in works like the ‘Façade’ series, the ‘Tarp’ series on display prompts contemplation on where the true essence of an object lies – in its exterior or its core. Everyday objects seemingly vanish beneath their gilded veils, emphasising their transient nature.
Viewers are encouraged to immerse themselves in the intricate details of these works from various perspectives. The pieces, a seamless fusion of contemporary art and traditional influences, captivate audiences with a mesmerizing interplay of light and shadow that evolves with each nuanced angle. The dance of light and shadow on the gilded surface creates a dynamic visual experience, revealing new facets and dimensions as viewers move around the artwork. The reflective nature of the gold leaf-coated surface turns it into a canvas that captures and refracts light in a brilliant symphony, actively engaging viewers and fostering a connection between the observer and the observed.