Heavy Metal

In the exhibition, Poddar displays 40 intricately carved pieces in gold and silver that comprise earrings, rings, brooches and framed art

I've always been influenced by art - it was almost like I didn't have a choice," exclaims Bengaluru-based artist Aman Poddar, when explaining how his father Abhishek Poddar's penchant for collecting art led him to visit several museums and meet a slew of artists growing up. While initially he pursued his family business in tea plantations, he soon realised it didn't engage him the way he'd hoped. However, a chance visit to jeweller Viren Bhagat's studio in Mumbai three years ago inspired him to delve into the art of jewellery design.

This led him to pursue a practical programme at New Approach School for Jewellers in Tennessee, which furthered his interest in engraving. Following this, he spent a few months interning at Tholia's Kuber in Jaipur, where he learnt about gemstones, cutting metal and the process of creating and executing designs. He, however, is quick to add that he doesn't consider himself a jeweller, but more of an artist who's begun his work through jewellery.

Aman Poddar

In his debut exhibit titled ekab at Akara Art in Colaba this month, Poddar displays 40 intricately carved pieces in gold and silver that comprise earrings, rings, brooches and framed art. "There's no particular theme tying this collection together," he comments when describing his emphasis on painstakingly dedicating days to carve out each objet d'art. "It's more of a meditative process for me. I've always enjoyed creating things with my hands and pushing boundaries when it comes to fascinating patterns and details. Engraving helps me explore both. This collection is more about pausing and appreciating the time and dedication behind a beautiful work of art. In a way, I want people to think about slowing down and being present when they see each piece. It might look simple at first, but if you look closer, each line and cut begins to unfurl a larger story."

While his plans for the future include examining other forms of art, including fashion, he's keen on working with more metals and pairing them in unique and unusual ways. "I'm fascinated with the idea of soldering multiple tiny pieces of metal together to create a minutely detailed pattern. It's something I haven't seen anywhere else before," he declares.

WHAT: ekab
WHERE: Akart Art, Colaba
WHEN: October 22 to 24
CONTACT: 9845450612