NewKerala.com

NGMA Chief Urges Spotlight on Indian Women Artists at Korea-India Art Fair

The Director General of the National Gallery of Modern Art, Sanjeev Kishor Goutam, used the platform of the India Art Fair 2026 to call for bringing the work of Indian women artists into the contemporary global spotlight. He emphasized the historically strong cultural relations between Korea and India, sharing insights from Korean contemporary art. South Korean Ambassador Lee Seong-ho noted the remarkable expansion of bilateral ties, now increasingly including cultural exchanges. The fair itself serves as the premier platform for modern and contemporary art from South Asia, fostering international dialogue.

Key Points: NGMA DG Calls for Indian Women Artists in Contemporary World

  • Advocate for Indian women artists
  • Korea-India strong cultural history
  • India Art Fair 2026 underway
  • Platform for South Asian art
  • Bilateral relations expanding
2 min read

"Indian women artists should be brought to the contemporary world," says NGMA DG

NGMA Director General Sanjeev Kishor Goutam highlights Korea-India cultural ties and advocates for showcasing Indian women artists globally at India Art Fair.

"I want that the work of Indian woman artists should be brought in the contemporary world. - Sanjeev Kishor Goutam"

New Delhi, February 6

The Korean Cultural Centre India actively participated in the 17th edition of the India Art Fair 2026, where the National Gallery of Modern Art Director General, Sanjeev Kishor Goutam, highlighted the deep historical ties between Korea and India.

Goutam stressed that women artistes' work should be brought to the forefront. He further shared insights from his engagement with Korean contemporary works at the fair and recounted a significant exhibition he had seen at South Korea's Modern Art Gallery during his recent visit.

He said, "A lot of contemporary artists of Korea have come here and I have a unique experience seeing their work... Korea-India relation has been historically strong, especially in terms of culture... When I visited South Korea last time, an important exhibition was being held by the Modern Art Gallery... I want that the work of Indian woman artists should be brought in the contemporary world."

South Korean Ambassador to India Lee Seong-ho expressed delight at the showcase of Korean contemporary art pieces.

"I am pleased to see that Korean contemporary art pieces are displayed here... Over the years, Korea-India bilateral relations have been expanding remarkably well, which has been mainly led by industrial cooperation. We are also witnessing growing ties in other areas such as cultural exchanges," the Ambassador said.

The India Art Fair (IAF) stands as the premier platform for discovering modern and contemporary art from South Asia, serving as a vital gateway to the region's thriving cultural scene.

IAF provides curated insights into the cultural landscapes of India and its neighbouring countries, bringing together galleries, artists, private foundations, arts charities, artist collectives, national institutions, cultural events and festivals. This collaborative framework cultivates innovative domestic and international interactions with South Asia's rich cultural heritage and development.

The 17th edition of India Art Fair 2026 is currently underway from February 6 to 9 at NSIC Exhibition Grounds, Okhla.

India Art Fair, the leading platform showcasing modern and contemporary art from India and South Asia, closed its landmark 16th edition on a high note, with reports of robust sales and strong attendance.

The fair featured a record line-up of 120 exhibitors, including 78 galleries, 28 institutions and 11 design studios, among others.

Held in partnership with BMW India for the ninth consecutive year, the fair galvanised galleries, collectors, institutions, artists, designers, organisations, and visitors, creating essential avenues for dialogue, artistic discovery, and meaningful exchanges.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

A
Arjun K
Great to see cultural diplomacy in action. The Korea-India connection in arts can open so many doors. Hope this leads to more exchange programs and residencies for our artists, especially women, to showcase their talent internationally.
S
Sarah B
While I appreciate the sentiment, I respectfully wonder if the NGMA itself is doing enough to promote women artists within India first? Our major national exhibitions and permanent collections still feel very male-dominated. Action should start at home.
R
Rohit P
Art Fair is always a brilliant event! Went last year and the energy was amazing. More power to such initiatives that put Indian art on the world map. The collaboration with Korea sounds promising.
M
Meera T
Absolutely agree with the DG. We have incredible women artists across the country, from traditional Madhubani and Warli painters to contemporary sculptors and digital artists. They need institutional support and international visibility. This is a step in the right direction.
D
David E
Interesting to see the cultural ties being highlighted beyond just K-pop and dramas. The art scene is a deep connector. Hope this fosters a two-way exchange where Indian contemporary art also gets more prominence in Korean galleries.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50