Multimedia artist and filmmaker Doug Aitken will present his debut exhibition in India, titled "Under the Sun," at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) in Mumbai, commencing on December 6th. This significant showcase underscores NMACC's dedication to fostering global artistic exchange.
"Under the Sun": A Transcendent Journey Through Art and Time
The Premiere of a Visionary Exhibition
Celebrated for his innovative installations that blur the lines between visual art, cinema, auditory experiences, and architectural forms, Doug Aitken is poised to unveil a distinctive exhibition in India. Titled "Under the Sun," the show is slated to open its doors on December 6th at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) in Mumbai. This marks Aitken's first major presentation in the country, highlighting a significant cultural collaboration.
A Symbiotic Creation: Indian Craftsmanship Meets Contemporary Art
At the heart of the exhibition lies a newly commissioned, site-specific artwork. This ambitious piece is the fruit of a collaboration between Aitken and over a dozen skilled Indian artisans, curated by Roya Sachs and Mafalda Kahane, and produced by Elizabeth Edelman of TRIADIC. The project exemplifies a unique synthesis of traditional Indian craft techniques and contemporary artistic expression, offering a fresh perspective on cultural dialogue.
An Immersive Odyssey Across Time
The exhibition is designed to guide visitors through an immersive sensory experience, exploring the concepts of past, present, and future across three distinct levels of the NMACC building. Each floor will offer a unique thematic focus, incorporating a diverse array of mediums. From intricate hand-carved wooden sculptures and richly embroidered textiles to a dynamic light installation and projections of Aitken's acclaimed film, "NEW ERA" (2018), the show promises a profound and varied artistic journey.
Doug Aitken's Artistic Vision: Bridging Cultures and Eras
Aitken describes "Under the Sun" as a "modern mythology," a landscape of artworks that not only questions our trajectory but also reflects on our origins. He emphasizes the exhibition's role in creating a bridge between Indian and Western cultures, fostering a dialogue across different temporal and material dimensions. The pieces, characterized as "hypnotic and exploratory," fluidly transition between the organic and the virtual, with each floor pulsating with its own energy, from the tactility of natural materials to the dynamism of moving imagery.
NMACC's Commitment to Cultural Exchange and Innovation
The Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre, since its inauguration in 2023, has been a vibrant hub for promoting and preserving India's rich cultural heritage through international artistic collaborations. Its history of partnering with esteemed institutions like the Dia Art Foundation and artists such as Toiletpaper underscores its commitment to global artistic exchange. Isha Ambani highlights that "Under the Sun" perfectly embodies NMACC's mission, showcasing an interplay of traditional design with cutting-edge digital technology that mirrors India's enduring legacy of creativity and innovation. The exhibition aims to resonate deeply with both Indian and international audiences, offering an experiential narrative brought to life by Aitken and talented local artisans.
Duration of the Exhibition
"Under the Sun" will be open for public viewing at the NMACC until February 22, 2026, offering ample opportunity for art enthusiasts to engage with this significant cultural event.
