


Brian Otieno (Kenya)
Mar 22, 2024
India
Categories:
Art, Social Justice, Equality, Women's Rights
Two articles describe the work of Shweta Bhattad, an artist who uses her work to draw attention and build conversations on equality and justice. Bhattad's work is often labeled audacious, but it has attracted worldwide attention.
In today's world, the realm of fine arts often encounters commercialization, leading to a limited role in shaping our society. However, there are instances where artists employ their creative prowess for moral and social reasons. This story introduces us to a remarkable young artist, Shweta Bhattad, who hails from India and has embarked on a unique journey to bring about change through art.
Shweta's artistic journey began when she graduated from the Nagpur Sculpture Department in Pune, India. What sets her apart is her profound commitment to social and moral causes. Through impactful performances conducted before live audiences, Bhattad exhibits unwavering allyship towards marginalized communities. Her artistic endeavors concentrate on advancing women's education, rights, and safety within the Indian context, particularly addressing issues of sexual abuse. Additionally, her endeavors extend to raising awareness about the agricultural crisis, environmental concerns, and broader issues of social justice in India.
During her 2013 art residency at Bamboo Curtain Studio in Taiwan, she presented "Bharat Mata in Taiwan," a performance inspired by her experiences as a woman in India and her challenges. The performance unfolds with Bhattad strolling along the beach while nearby individuals engage in water activities and relax on the sandy shores. Mirroring the traditional imagery of Bharat Mata (Hindu Mother Goddess), she holds the Indian flag and a lotus flower in two hands in a five-minute video. However, departing from conventional depictions, Bhattad wears a white sari and a striking red chastity belt adorned with a gold padlock.
In a powerful commentary on sexism and the prevailing purity culture in India, Bhattad wields large pliers in her third hand, symbolically severing the red chastity belt. As the demonstration concludes, she completely removes the belt, liberating herself. The performance concludes with Bhattad gazing into the camera and gracefully retreating into the ocean, leaving a profound visual statement on the themes of autonomy and emancipation.
In 2020, she embarked on an extraordinary project that captured the world's attention. Shweta, armed with a vision to raise awareness about the dire situation farmers face in India, took a daring step. She willingly buried herself in a coffin, descending two meters beneath the earth's surface, for a period of three hours to draw attention to the cause.
Shweta's artistic pursuits extend beyond this remarkable act. For years, she has been deeply involved with a community theater initiative known as "Farmers Haat." This platform brings together diverse individuals who share a passion for India's farmers. The "Farmers Haat" project aims to bridge the gap between farmers and consumers. By creating a digital platform for farmers to collaborate, they envisage the birth of a "Farmer Haat," where farmers can directly communicate with their customers, fostering a more sustainable business environment.
Shweta Bhattad's work brings people's passions to life. She inspires artists to create paintings and music that shed light on the struggles of farmers and immigrants, aiming to strengthen communities and promote sustainability. Under the banner of 'Labour Katha,' Shweta's daring act of being buried alive in a coffin was a powerful statement about the plight of farmers. Clad in a transparent sari, she ventured underground with "Viswas" (faith). Shweta believes that the key to solving problems lies in coming together, discussing, deciding, and generating ideas as a collective. She underscores that "we" have the power to change the situation for the better if we unite.
Shweta's actions have sparked interest in other regions. Reports indicate that a group in Pune is exploring possibly organizing a week-long 'Farmers Haat' event to promote organic food, furthering Shweta's mission. She has also participated in the 'Gram Art Project,' emphasizing how art can be a potent tool for advocating for the rights of underprivileged farmers
This story teaches us valuable lessons about the potential of art in driving social change. Shweta's journey demonstrates that artists and professionals can join forces to improve the lives and livelihoods of marginalized communities. Using art as a means of communication, they can shine a light on issues requiring immediate attention and action. Art has the power to engage and mobilize society, influencing relevant organizations to take the necessary steps to bring about change.
As you reflect on this story, consider how you, as an individual, can create a platform for those whose voices are unheard and whose rights are violated. Just as Shweta did, you, too, can facilitate a space for individuals passionate about making a difference to share their concerns and ideas. Through artistic expression in poetry, music, drama, and art, you can disseminate knowledge, ignite conversations, and inspire change.
Remember, if you seek change, you must be the catalyst. Shweta's journey exemplifies the transformative power of art in advocating for social and moral causes, urging us all to be agents of positive change in our communities and beyond.
Photo by 52parindey.in
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