Kapila Nahender’s latest show explores underlying themes of identity, nostalgia and more

Artist Kapila Nahender explores notions of belonging, growth and memories in her show Pockets of Resistance

Nature always fights back; she also senses kindred spirits. Artist Kapila Nahender’s solo show, Pockets of Resistance, not only mirrors these attributes of Nature, but also explores themes of identity, nostalgia and memories.

The artist for whom Bengaluru has always been home, feels “this fast-changing city has ballooned into something quite unrecognisable”. “The city used to move at a slower pace and its growth has been quite overwhelming,” says Kapila.

She adds, “I am constantly on the look out for little pockets here that resonate with my idea of home because I cannot claim to know the city anymore.”

Kapila believes such notions of identity arise when one’s surroundings change drastically. “It is a human emotion to want to feel connected; we want to feel included. Everybody wants their life to be witnessed by people who care for them and are a part of their life.”

The artist who uses her family home as a studio, feels a kinship with the trees and plants there and says her work is “a homage to these witnesses of my life”.

Apart from these obvious references in Pockets of Resistance, Kapila says her work also reflects notions of migration and inclusiveness. “I enjoy morning walks after the rain; flowers, leaves and twigs are strewn on the ground. Some are not from my garden, while some from my home are probably moving elsewhere. This migration of things that fall is quite fascinating and I see it as a metaphor for what is happening in the city.”