Ballot Box by Hari Kishan
Ballot Box is a satirical work on today’s idea of democracy. It reflects the rigid, closed, and manipulated system driven by hierarchy, class, race, and division. The sickles represent symbols of the working class, farmers, and other labouring communities.The work shows how they become half-submerged in the system, permanently embedded, silently watching the theatre of mockery, and are silenced within its structure.
The molten bubble, or eruption, emerging from the surface, represents the suppressed anger and grief of these communities, ready to erupt, travelling through the loopholes of the system and the so-called democracy. The choice of materials also indicates the tension between labour, democracy, and power. The Ballot Box becomes a silent yet explosive object. One that does not collect votes, but rather collects violence, unheard appeals, resistance, and dissent.
This artwork was exhibited at Method in the group exhibition "The Parliament is Now in Session" (August 2025)
| Size | 11.5" x 18.5" x 12" |
| Medium |
Concrete, Sickle Tool and Cast Iron |
| Edition Size | |
| Framing | N/A |
| Year | 2023 |
| Certificate of Authenticity | Included |
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| Taxes | Included |
| Return & Refund Policy | No refunds or exchanges on art. Please see complete policy here. |
Hari Kishan
Hari Kishan is a distinguished contemporary artist from Delhi’s potter community, whose work embodies the resilience and heritage of marginalized communities. Holding a Master's degree in Printmaking and a Bachelor's in Painting from Jamia Millia Islamia, Hari seamlessly blends traditional craftsmanship with modern artistic expressions, making him a significant voice in today’s art world.
Deeply rooted in his identity as a potter, Hari’s art reflects the struggles and strength of the underrepresented, especially those living on the margins. His practice incorporates symbolic elements like soil, bricks, threads, and tools—materials that narrate stories of labor, survival, and economic contribution. Through sculpture, printmaking, and mixed media, he highlights social inequalities while celebrating the dignity of labor.
Influenced by Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of inclusivity and social justice, Hari’s work evokes empathy and awareness, reinforcing the profound connection between people, land, and sustainability. His thought-provoking creations serve as a bridge between cultural heritage and contemporary discourse, positioning him as a crucial artistic voice in today’s socio-political landscape.
By bringing the stories of marginalized communities to the forefront, Hari Kishan not only preserves his ancestral craft but also challenges viewers to engage with the pressing issues of our time.
