As part of our Art Gallery Tour Series, Discern Living visited Chennai-based Prakrit Art Gallery, which was established 14 years ago. Prakrit has hosted several art camps and exhibitions in India as well as abroad; they have also organised three successful auctions, to raise funds for non-profits. Their mission is to showcase the works of upcoming and talented artists. Here, we bring you excerpts of our chat with the founder and proprietor of Prakrit, Shilpa Duggar.





Shilpa Duggar

Where did the passion to start an art gallery stem from? What were the early influences that led you to this path?

I have been influenced by my mother and sister, both of whom are creative people. During my growing years, art and artists were not prominent, and women heading and running galleries were unheard of! With time, I realised I had a flair for creativity, too - I would paint my bedroom walls, and sometimes even my sarees. This is when I decided to formally train in the art. I think the passion just stemmed from my genes.

What are the key factors that differentiate your art space from any other?

We promote young, upcoming, talented artists and we work hard with them so that they get the recognition they deserve and true value for their work.

According to you, what are the current trends, materials, processes or mediums that have been in the forefront in 2016, with a potential to continue in the new year?

It is very difficult to predict these things. The medium is sure to change, and so will the styles, and outlook for the art.

Another new process/medium that has recently been garnering attention?

Installation art and video art is making quite a wave in the West, and it is touching India too.

Which are the upcoming artists that you would recommend to first time buyers?

I don’t normally recommend any particular artist. I always tell my buyers to buy what touches their heart, and appeals to them, and at the same time makes them think, and ask questions.

Expert Tip: I advise patrons to never buy art just because it’s the hottest trend; one should buy art based on personal choice. As far as price is concerned, it is always fixed in terms of the artist's popularity, success and demand. So price alone should not be a factor.

Art was previously looked at as a great investment option. Does that still hold true, keeping the market conditions in mind?

Tell me why it is not a great investment? Art is connected with culture, history and tradition, and tells you stories of a certain era and time. As time passes, the price will definitely increase, so yes, it is an investment.

Who is your personal favourite Indian artist?

My favourite artists are Manjit Bawa, Ramachandran and Suriyamoorthy.



Untitled by Manjit Bawa - Picture Source



Artwork by Ramachandran - Picture Source



Artwork by Suriyamoorthy - Picture Source

Who is your personal favourite upcoming artist or artists?

R.Baala, Bandana Kumari, Dharmendra, Anjaneyulu, Devidas and Deepak Sonar are few of my favourites, but there are many more I could also name!



Abstract by R. Baala - Picture Source



Untitled by Bandana Kumari - Picture Source



Dear Deer by Dharmendra - Picture Source



Untitled by Anjaneyulu - Picture Source

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Power Unleashed, Horse Series by Devidas - Picture Source



Abstract by Deepak Sonar - Picture Source

What would be your final words of advice for our readers?

Expert Tip: I feel sculptures are not taken seriously as an art investment, but they should be. They are three-dimensional art works, that can add value to any space, be it indoors or outdoors.

