January is the month of the India Art Fair. And even if you’re not slated to be in Delhi but would like to indulge then we’ve got some suggestions. Instagram, the great showcase of everything, is also a wonderful gallery for creatives who aren’t that embedded in the formal art market. For this story we spoke to a number of people and narrowed down a tiny selection of Indian art-makers who are discoverable on social media. If you’re just getting started or thinking about becoming an art buyer, then social media also affords the ability to explore without judgement and peruse without pressure.
We asked Shreemoyee Moitra, gallery manager at Akara Art, Mumbai, how one decides when there’s so much out there and what to keep in mind. “Art is very personal. One should always buy pieces they feel a connection with—especially emotionally. If you’re eyeing a piece online, but unsure about buying it, visit the artist’s studio or research a bit to know the story behind their works. The more immersed you are in the world of art, the more you’ll start to discover and recognise your own aesthetics.” But she’s got a word of caution: “You will have to live with the art you buy, holding on to it sometimes for generations. While buying, always ask for its supporting documents for provenance and authenticity.”
Across art, photography and installations, the following is a teeny-tiny list of the many possibilities out there…