Chitra Ganesh is an artist based in Brooklyn who has spent the last two decades creating a unique conceptual world inspired by Indian myths, legends, and global-local narratives. Her work spans across various mediums such as drawings, paintings, films, animations, and comic books, creating a rich tapestry of images and references that defy categorization. When looking at Ganesh’s pieces, one is immediately struck by the diverse range of themes, stories, and events that are interwoven within the intricate visual landscapes she creates.
One of the key challenges when engaging with Ganesh’s work is finding a point of entry, as her pieces are filled with a multitude of familiar yet surreal elements. From flora and fauna to people and landscapes, her artworks are a blend of reality and fantasy that invite viewers to explore the boundaries between the two. The current exhibition, titled “Tiger in the Looking Glass,” draws inspiration from the traditional Indian collection of poems known as Barahmasa, which explores the themes of love, seasons, and human emotions.
Ganesh’s reinterpretation of the Barahmasa themes in her twelve works exhibited at Gallery Wendie Norris showcases her engagement with feminist and Queer aesthetics. Through her storytelling, she brings to life female protagonists in various physical and emotional forms, challenging traditional norms and presenting a unique perspective on love, longing, and separation. The intricate narratives woven into her pieces invite viewers to delve deeper into the layers of meaning and symbolism present in each artwork.
One striking example from the exhibition is a hybrid figure with a female body and a tiger’s head titled “Enter the Jungle.” Set against a backdrop of a lush forest, the figure exudes a sense of power and mystery, prompting viewers to question the boundaries between reality and fantasy. Ganesh’s ability to blend the fantastical with the real creates a space for contemplation and reflection on contemporary issues and societal norms.
Overall, Chitra Ganesh’s “Tiger in the Looking Glass” exhibition offers a unique perspective on love, identity, and the human experience through a visually stunning and thought-provoking collection of artworks. By exploring the boundaries between the familiar and the surreal, Ganesh invites viewers to embark on a journey of self-discovery and introspection, challenging them to question the world around them and their place within it.
