The National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) in Bengaluru presents 'One Mother, Many Mother Tongues,' an exhibition tracing the universal motif of motherhood from ancient Harappa to Renaissance Italy.
- Exhibition 'One Mother, Many Mother Tongues' opens at NGMA Bengaluru.
- Spans from the Indus Valley Civilization to Early Renaissance Florence.
- Co-curated by Naman Ahuja and Andrea Anastasio.
The National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) in Bengaluru has unveiled a profound new exhibition titled 'One Mother, Many Mother Tongues.' This curated journey explores the enduring visual motif of the mother and child, demonstrating how this primal human connection migrates across borders, centuries, and artistic traditions.
The exhibition creates a stunning dialogue between the ancient and the classical. It begins with the earthy, symbolic figures of the Harappan civilization and culminates in the ethereal beauty of Early Renaissance Florence. A crowning jewel of the collection is the inclusion of Botticelli’s 'Madonna and Child,' bringing a piece of Italian mastery to the heart of Karnataka.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that this exhibition is more than a mere display of aesthetics; it is a study in cross-cultural anthropology. By placing Harappan artifacts alongside Renaissance masterpieces, the curators highlight that the instinct of maternal protection is a global constant, transcending the barriers of religion, geography, and time.
"The visual language of motherhood is the only truly universal tongue, spoken fluently by artists across every continent and era."
The exhibition is the result of a collaboration between renowned art historian Naman Ahuja and Andrea Anastasio, the Director of the Italian Cultural Centre in India. Their combined expertise ensures a narrative that is both academically rigorous and emotionally resonant for the general public.
Historically, the mother-child motif has evolved from being a symbol of fertility and survival in early agrarian societies to a representation of divine grace and humanism during the Renaissance. This transition reflects the broader evolution of human consciousness and its expression through art.
| Feature | Harappan Art | Renaissance (Florence) |
|---|---|---|
| Medium | Terracotta/Clay | Oil on Canvas/Frescoes |
| Core Theme | Fertility and Protection | Divine Grace and Humanism |
| Style | Abstract/Symbolic | Naturalistic/Detailed |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Where is the 'One Mother, Many Mother Tongues' exhibition located?
A: It is currently being hosted at the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) in Bengaluru.
Q2: Who are the curators behind this exhibition?
A: The exhibition is co-curated by art historian Naman Ahuja and Andrea Anastasio.