MELBOURNE, 11 May 2023: India is a land of multicultural diversity in every aspect of its life. It’s vivid art, music and crafts are world renowned. This diversity is also reflected in its textiles which are a tribute to the artisans and crafts people. The stories of India woven into textiles are a fitting honour to the country’s 75 years of Independence being celebrated this year.
A creative partnership between Melbourne Museum and the Abheraj Baldota Foundation, celebrates 75 years of India’s independence and the innovation and artistry of its world-renowned contemporary designers and craftspeople, with an exhibition that will showcase to power of Indian textile designs.
Sutr Santati: Then. Now. Next. Stories of India woven in thread – was opened today at the Melbourne Museum. The international exhibition opens for the public on Saturday 13 May and will be on display until Saturday 3 September 2023, giving visitors an opportunity to see intricate, handmade textiles that have not been seen outside of India until now.
CEO and Director Lynley Crosswell, Melbourne Museum addressed the media explaining the meaning of Stur Santati: Then. Now. Next, during a preview of the exhibition.
The 75 featured works range from colourful, large-scale tapestries to intricate embroidery and handpainted silk. Appealing to art, design, fashion and craft enthusiasts, the exhibition explores how India’s current-day textile designers and artisans are redefining the boundaries of traditional textile art and pushing it to new heights.
“Abheraj Baldota Foundation is thrilled to partner with Museums Victoria to bring this exhibition to Australia as it offers a fresh perspective on the art of Indian textiles,” says exhibition curator, Lavina Baldota.
“I am so proud to present works by India’s current-day textile designers and artisans who are redefining the boundaries of traditional textile art and are pushing it to new heights. Visitors will be amazed by the skill, craftsmanship and creativity that can be seen across these contemporary pieces.”
Minister for Creative Industries Steve Dimopoulos, in a media release said,“Melbourne is the home of arts and culture in Australia and we’re proud to back international exhibitions that provide another reason to visit our city.”
“The bright and intricate artistry of Sutr Santati will enthral visitors and also highlight Victoria’s large and diverse Indian community and the strong bonds we share.”
Those who are visiting from India and their exhibits are on display include Abishek Ganesh J./Kaimurai, Purvi Doshi, Gaurang Shah, Paresh Patel, Samira Shah and Manish Saksena. The exhibition is a visually stunning exploration of India’s cultural heritage and will appeal to art, design, fashion and craft enthusiasts alike. Melbourne is lucky this exceptional collection of textiles, offering visitors at the Melbourne Museum a unique perspective on the artistry and innovation of contemporary Indian design and craftsmanship.
For further information visit the Melbourne Museum website.
Sutr Santati: Then. Now. Next. Stories of India woven in thread.
Open: Saturday 13 April to 3 September 2023
Location: Melbourne Museum, 11 Nicholson Street Carlton
Tickets: on sale at Melbourne Museum and online here
Adult – $25 ($15 General Admission and $10 exhibition ticket)
Australian Senior – $20 ($10 General Admission and $10 exhibition ticket)
Concession – $10
Child (3–16) – $10
Member adult/concession – $8
Member Child (3 – 16) – $8
