Mumbai is constantly buzzing with a variety of art and cultural exhibitions that people can explore throughout the year. Among the many that are currently on display, The National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) in Fort is hosting a unique exhibition titled ‘Nabha Sparsh: Indian Women Printmakers’ that showcases the works of 150 women artists from across the country, and across generations. The exhibition aims to highlight these voices and bring them to the forefront – honouring artists who continue to expand and redefine the language of print.
The exhibit, which is in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and opened on April 25, showcases diverse printmaking techniques including lithographs, etchings, aquatints, engravings, screen prints, among others.
Curated by NGMA, with Shruti Das as the deputy curator, Nabha Sparsh narrates the story of the evolution of Indian printmaking through the eyes of its women practitioners, providing a glimpse into their individual perspectives and artistic journeys.
Drawn from the collection of the gallery, the show features artworks of senior printmakers. The highlights include ‘Mask Series’ by Anupam Sud, ‘Devi’ by Rini Dhumal, Zarina Hashmi’s exploration of geometric design and form, Krishna Devyani’s spiritually inspired series, and Lalitha Lajmi’s introspective ‘Mind’s Cupboards’.
A section of the exhibition also pays tribute to the late Gogi Saroj Pal, one of India’s most celebrated artists.
Showcasing a selection of her lesser known yet powerful etchings and lithographs, the display also features personal handwritten letters to her son, affectionately called ‘Punna’, penned during her time at the Garhi studio in New Delhi. These writings, alongside her artworks, offer a rare glimpse into the inner world of a woman navigating the dual roles of artist and mother.
There is also a special corner dedicated to children, showcasing artworks that capture the quiet beauty of everyday life. Additionally, a collection of nature-inspired realistic artworks is also on display with primary focus on animals and human portraits.
Nidhi Choudhari, Director, NGMA, said, “Historically, the contributions of female printmakers have too often remained on the periphery – overshadowed, underrepresented, or misattributed. Yet, from the delicate lines of etching to the bold forms of linocuts, their work has spoken with strength, resilience, and artistic ingenuity.
When: On till May 25
Where: National Gallery of Modern Art, Fort
Time: 10 am to 6 pm (Closed on Mondays and national holidays)
