Material as Metaphors: A Dialogue of Art Forms – Where Medium Becomes Message

Housed in the historic Currency Building of Kolkata, Material as Metaphors: A Dialogue of Art Forms is a groundbreaking exhibition curated by Sayantan Maitra Boka and hosted by the National Gallery of Modern Art. Featuring over 240 works by 53 contemporary Indian artists, this show challenges conventional perceptions of art by placing emphasis not just on form or concept, but on material itself as narrative.

At its heart, this exhibition invites viewers to reconsider how materials—textiles, paper, metal, thread, clay, plastic, and even sound—carry meaning. Rather than acting merely as tools or vehicles for expression, the materials in these works become central to the stories they tell. A thread isn’t just stitched—it’s woven into identity. A rusted object isn’t just discarded—it speaks of decay, memory, or transformation.

One of the most captivating sections of the show focuses on textile-based and fibre art. From intricate crochet installations to fabric-based sculptures, these works highlight how traditional crafting techniques can be reimagined in a contemporary context. Artists use these mediums to explore themes like domestic labor, gender, intimacy, and resistance.

Another powerful element is the site-specific installations that respond to the architecture of the Currency Building itself. By engaging directly with the colonial history of the space, artists reframe it as a site of introspection and decolonial thought. This blend of historical context and modern form creates a layered viewing experience.

Multimedia elements also feature prominently—video art, sound installations, and digital projections that expand the traditional idea of what constitutes “material.” In many cases, ephemeral materials like light or voice take center stage, making the viewer an active participant in the art.

Importantly, the exhibition is accessible, inviting, and highly immersive. QR codes next to artworks allow visitors to hear the artists’ voices, understand their processes, and dive deeper into material symbolism. This interactivity helps bridge the gap between abstract artistic language and public engagement.

In a world saturated with visuals, Material as Metaphors reminds us that what we make art from is as meaningful as what we make art about. The materials we choose—natural, industrial, discarded, or intangible—carry emotional, cultural, and political weight. This exhibition, bold in both concept and execution, gives them a stage they truly deserve.