Copyright © FotoFest
In March 2018, a multi-site exhibition, entitled INDIA: Contemporary Photographic and New Media Art, was held in Houston, Texas, as part of that year’s Fotofest Biennial. To be selected for inclusion in FotoFest is a great honor, but the cost to participate is prohibitive for many, particularly those who would need to travel from India and other parts of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. There are many societal concerns that need the spotlight that artists shine, in order for the general public to become enlightened. Rather than simply accepting problems, stepping over them, or averting our eyes, solutions can be discussed and strategies formulated when they are acknowledged. For this reason, Vasant Nayak contacted lead curator Sunil Gupta and FotoFest executive director, Steven Evans, to see how the MurthyNAYAK Foundation (MNF) might be able to contribute.
FotoFest is not only a wonderful opportunity for photographers to exhibit their work, and a chance to network with other artists; it also attracts dealers and curators from around the world who offer feedback and select artists they would like to represent. Most importantly, it provides society with a clear-eyed view of itself – its beauty and its failings.
Funds from the MNF were provided to FotoFest to bring five mid-career Indian photographers, whose work documents particular social issues in India. Vasant was able to meet the artists in Houston for several days to discuss their work and gain knowledge of their future endeavors.
Encouragement and financial support is important to artists who have the talent and the drive to hold a magnifying glass to unpleasantness. By funding the projects of filmmakers, photographers, and other artists, MNF hopes to raise consciousness and awareness about important issues. We want to transform ignorance and apathy to concern and activism.
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20 November
