shot-button
Banner Banner
Home > Brand Media Stories > Others Stories > Article > Constructing Landscapes with Scent and Memory

Constructing Landscapes with Scent and Memory

Updated on: 16 March,2024 06:02 PM IST  |  Mumbai
BrandMedia | brandmedia@mid-day.com

Suri also showed at the Mumbai Gallery Weekend earlier in the year at Anupa Mehta Contemporary Art’s new gallery space in Colaba, Mumbai.

Constructing Landscapes with Scent and Memory

Arushee Suri is an Indian artist based in London. Suri's recent work, "If Memories Were a Fragrance, This is How They Would Smell Like," showcased at The India Art Fair in New Delhi, has received widespread praise for its approach to art and its deep exploration of inclusivity. Suri is represented by Anupa Mehta Contemporary Art, a gallery based in Mumbai, who showed her work from February 1st to 4th at the NSIC Grounds, Okhla, captivating audiences with its immersive sensory experiences. Spanning across London and Delhi, Suri's body of work delved into the intricate relationship between memories, textures, and scents, offering a dynamic portrayal of her native land and childhood. Through meticulous curation, she created a vivid sensory landscape that transcended traditional art boundaries, evoking nostalgia, and mindfulness in viewers. Her work’s title, "If Memories Were a Fragrance, This is How They Would Smell Like," perfectly encapsulated its essence, inviting attendees to embark on a journey of self-discovery through different senses. 


Each element, from the aromatic blend of saffron and fennel to the earthy textures reminiscent of Delhi's streets, was arranged with precision, like a poetic narrative that explored the concept of 'home' and the passage of time. At the heart of Suri's work was her profound observation of the diverse stimuli that shape human experiences. She eloquently highlighted how individuals subconsciously associate sensory experiences with memories, triggering a sense of nostalgia that transcends time. This underlying theme permeated the work, prompting contemplation on the interconnectedness between sensory perceptions and personal narratives. Furthermore, Suri's unwavering commitment to accessibility and inclusivity in art was evident throughout the exhibition. Collaborating with Access for All, she extended a warm invitation to members of the National Association of Blind (NAB) to interact with her work, challenging the conventional "don’t touch the artwork" mentality prevalent in the art world. By fostering tangible connections with visually impaired attendees, Suri spearheaded a broader conversation on accessible art, advocating for a more inclusive artistic landscape. 


Despite the inherent challenges of translating the immersive experience virtually, Suri's work left an indelible impression on attendees. The vibrant organic shapes and tactile elements evoked cherished childhood memories, further enhancing her works' immersive quality, and fostering a profound connection with the artwork. For the viewers, "If Memories Were a Fragrance, This is How They Would Smell Like" transcended traditional art boundaries, offering attendees an unforgettable sensory journey that celebrated inclusivity, mindfulness, and the richness of human experiences. Suri's graceful approach to accessible art ignited meaningful conversations and underscored the transformative power of art in shaping collective narratives. 

Suri is among 15 shortlisted artists for the Emerging Artist Award, South Asia 2024 by The Arts Family London. The shortlisted artists were chosen by a jury including, Julia Hutt (Curator V&A), Lekha Poddar (Founder, Devi Art Foundation), Malani Roy (Curator, British Library) to name a few. 

Suri also showed at the Mumbai Gallery Weekend earlier in the year at Anupa Mehta Contemporary Art’s new gallery space in Colaba, Mumbai. Her upcoming solo exhibition is at East Quay Watchet, a town in Somerset UK. The exhibition starts on 25th of March and is supported by funding from the Arts Council England. She has many more exciting projects coming up both in India and London. Often travelling between the two countries, Suri is definitely making her mark in the art world.

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

Register for FREE
to continue reading !

This is not a paywall.
However, your registration helps us understand your preferences better and enables us to provide insightful and credible journalism for all our readers.

This website uses cookie or similar technologies, to enhance your browsing experience and provide personalised recommendations. By continuing to use our website, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy. OK