By banning Sabsabi from the 2026 Venice Biennale, the message seems clear: the Western world has little interest in understanding the complexities of history or exploring deeper meanings. This decision underscores how Western institutions often struggle to engage with narratives that challenge or complicate their existing frameworks.

Umah Jacob, Director of External Relations & Outreach at India Art Fair, drives its global expansion, connects collectors with artists, and fosters inclusivity in the art ecosystem. She also leads the Young Collectors’ Programme, engaging new audiences with contemporary South Asian art. Here, she shares insights on young collectors, India Art Fair’s strategies, and South Asian artists' global impact.

The curator and researcher discusses the interplay of history and innovation, the role of technology in art preservation, and Delhi’s unique artistic legacy.

India Art Fair 2025 promises an exhilarating mix of contemporary art, historical reflection, and innovative practices. With an impressive roster of galleries, solo exhibitions, and collaborative installations, the event is a must-visit for art enthusiasts. From curated experiences within the fairgrounds to dynamic parallel events across New Delhi, here’s what you shouldn’t miss.

Street art, once seen as an act of rebellion, has evolved into a widely revered visual storytelling medium, redefining cities around the world. Urban art has become a collective movement, reflecting the socio-political climate and identity of each place it touches. While its roots may have sprung from protest and counterculture, street art today holds an undeniable influence over mainstream art scenes too.

What if art didn’t need to explain itself? Abstract art exists in that space—inviting us to feel, reflect, and explore before trying to understand.Unlike representational art, which hands the viewer a clear narrative or image, abstraction asks for a different kind of engagement. The lack of recognizable forms allows for personal reflection—shapes, colors, and textures become a canvas for your emotions and memories, allowing for an abstract painting meaning as unique as the observer.

Minimalism, often synonymous with simplicity, clarity, and intentionality, has transformed the way we perceive art, design, and the spaces we inhabit. Originating as a movement in the mid-20th century, minimalism in both art and architecture sought to strip away excess, leaving behind only what was essential. But this journey is far from one-dimensional. While its Western origins are well-documented, the roots and influences of minimalist aesthetics reach deep into global, particularly South Asian, traditions, challenging Eurocentric narratives and offering a decolonized lens through which to view its evolution.

Indian sculpture is a testament to the country's rich cultural and artistic heritage, spanning thousands of years. From the intricate carvings of ancient temples to contemporary modern sculptures, Indian sculptural traditions showcase a diversity of forms, materials, and purposes. This journey through the history of Indian sculpture reveals its evolution in conversation with history, religion, and cultural identity.

In the ever-evolving landscape of art, the terms “modern” and “contemporary” are often confused by casual observers. Yet, these words signify more than just different time periods—they reflect distinct philosophies, methods, and cultural influences that have shaped artistic expression. By understanding both movements, we can gain a more nuanced understanding of how art has mirrored society's shifts and continues to provoke new ways of seeing.

Visual art, as one of humanity's oldest and most profound forms of expression, offers a window into the soul of societies and individuals. From the cave paintings of prehistory to contemporary digital art, visual art galleries provide spaces for showcasing this evolution. Visual art encompasses a vast array of techniques and forms, serving not only as a medium for aesthetic pleasure but as a commentary on the human condition, culture, and the evolution of social values. In India, this tradition is deep-rooted, shaped by its rich cultural heritage, colonial influence, and modern global trends.