Karnataka Artist Showcases Craft at SIKAO’s ‘Objects of Desire’

An exhibition celebrating the intersection of traditional craft and contemporary art is set to take place in Mumbai on March 7-8. Entitled ‘Objects of Desire’, the showcase features the work of 47 artists, including Karnataka-based artist Shivaranjan. His creations, crafted from Deccani sheep wool, reflect his nomadic shepherd background and the earthy tones of the Deccan plateau.

The event, organized by the travelling gallery SIKAO, aims to highlight the narratives behind collectible designs. Co-founders Pinky Daga, a theatre practitioner, and her son Kabbier Daga, a multidisciplinary artist, have curated a collection that includes over 200 objets d’art created from materials such as clay, wool, stone, and wood.

A Platform for Cultural Artefacts

Pinky Daga expressed her excitement about the exhibition, noting that this is a pivotal moment for Indian design on the global stage. “There’s no better time than now to showcase how our artists are embracing a global aesthetic,” she stated. The artwork is accessible to young collectors, with prices ranging from ₹15,000 to ₹2 lakh, depending on the complexity and time involved in creating each piece.

Each item in the exhibition tells a unique story. Bengaluru-based textile artist Pragati Mathur has pushed her creative boundaries by designing a copper totem pole inspired by the rocks of Hampi. Similarly, Harshita Jhamtani, known for her light fixtures, has crafted a collection of dolls reflecting her signature style.

Shivaranjan’s work draws deeply from his agricultural roots, utilizing colors and techniques that embody his experiences. Pinky Daga noted that their initial discussions with him began in 2025, leading to iterations that allowed him to express his vision through his chosen materials.

Exploring Contemporary Narratives

The exhibition also features contributions from artists like Aaryaa Velani and G. Jeswant, who have created sculptural pieces during their residency at Hampi Art Labs, collaborating with artisans from the Sandur Collective. Their work, while evocative of everyday objects, presents a modern interpretation of traditional artist practices.

The diversity of the showcased pieces continues with Tilfi, a studio based in Varanasi, which presents brass pieces inspired by mythology. Also notable is Ahmedabad-based artist Rutva Joshi, who has created a terracotta-hued sculptural collectible that merges painting and sculpture.

Additionally, ceramic works by Ganesh Burud, an alumnus of the JJ School of Art, explore themes of chaos through cubism. Australian ceramicist Fliss Dodd incorporates cultural storytelling into her anthropomorphic forms, adding an international flair to the exhibition.

After the Mumbai showcase, select pieces will travel to Italy for the 11th edition of Alcova during Milan Design Week. Pinky Daga emphasized the pride in providing a platform for Indian artists and mentioned plans for further exhibitions in Dubai, Doha, and various Indian cities.

‘Objects of Desire’ will be open to the public from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on March 7 and 8 at IF.BE, Ballard Estate, Mumbai. This event marks a significant moment for artisans and collectors alike, as it merges traditional craft with modern aesthetic sensibilities, inviting audiences to engage with art in a new and meaningful way.