In the vibrant city of Kolkata, there exists a cultural oasis that has become a nurturing ground for artists and art enthusiasts alike – the Centre of International Modern Art, fondly known as CIMA. Established in 1993, CIMA stands as a testament to the vision and dedication of its Director, Rakhi Sarkar.
CIMA, since its inception, has played a pivotal role in shaping the contemporary art scene in India. It started as a gallery but swiftly transformed into an institution that transcends traditional boundaries. Under the guiding influence of Ms Rakhi Sarkar, CIMA became a space where artists could experiment, innovate, and express themselves freely.
The CIMA Awards, initiated in 2015 under the visionary guidance of Rakhi Sarkar, the director of CIMA, has been a game-changer for emerging artists. It’s a platform where talent knows no constraints. What started as a humble endeavor took three years of meticulous fine-tuning to create a fair and unbiased process. Today, the CIMA Awards have democratized the art world in India. Anyone, irrespective of everything but their talent, can participate and stand a chance to win.
The uniqueness of the CIMA Awards lies not just in its inclusivity but in the opportunities it offers to the winners. The recipient of the award doesn’t just get a cash prize of 6 lakhs, but also a chance to showcase their art in an exhibition.For small-town artists, this recognition is life-changing, a stepping stone toward a promising future in the art world.
What sets the CIMA Awards apart is its dedication to bridging the gap between urban and rural art scenes. Small-town artists often find it challenging to break through the barriers of metropolitan art circles. The CIMA Awards work towards changing that narrative. It acknowledges talent regardless of the artist’s background, allowing them to shine on a national stage. This representation is not just about celebrating individual artists; it’s about recognizing the rich tapestry of artistic expressions that exist in every corner of India.
“Artists like Prashant Patil from Maharashtra found a platform for his bold, unapologetic expressions through the CIMA awards . His multi-dimensional installations, born from simple drawings, reflect the societal turbulence he witnessed. It’s artists like him who epitomize the spirit of the new wave in Indian art – raw, introspective, and unfiltered” says Ms Sarkar.
Over the past eight years, the CIMA Awards have played a pivotal role in overcoming colonial hang-ups and bridging the significant big town/small town divide in the Indian art scene.This exhibition provides a unique opportunity for art enthusiasts to engage with a diverse range,of artistic expressions, including paintings, graphics, installations, and sculptures.It stands as compelling narrative of the artistic resurgence witnessed in India over recent years, inviting art enthusiasts to explore the innovative and thought-provoking creations that define this exciting era in Indian art.“The Millennials: Art by Generation Next” exhibition held at Art Magnum, New Delhi is a manifestation of the institution’s commitment to nurturing talent. This artshow is a collection of fifteen CIMA award winners .
“Themes of resilience, societal challenges, and human experiences echo through the exhibition. The artists delve into the impact of COVID-19 on humanity, capturing the essence of a world in flux. Their artworks are not just representations; they are reflections of a society grappling with change, questioning norms, and embracing individuality” Ms Sarkar further stated . What makes CIMA truly remarkable is its ability to foster a sense of artistic community. Through curated exhibitions, interdisciplinary interactions, and international collaborations, CIMA has become a melting pot of ideas. It’s a space where artists, scholars, and art enthusiasts converge, engaging in meaningful dialogues that enrich the artistic landscape.
As visitors walk through “The Millennials: Art by Generation Next” exhibition , they are not merely witnessing artworks; they are experiencing a cultural metamorphosis. CIMA, under the subtle yet impactful guidance of Rakhi Sarkar, has become a catalyst for change. It has become a bridge connecting the past, present, and future of Indian art.
In the colorful world of Indian art, the CIMA Awards shine as a symbol of hope and opportunity. It’s not just about art; it’s about the dreams and hard work of artists, especially those from small towns. As the winners’ artworks light up the galleries, they tell stories that resonate with people everywhere. The CIMA Awards show us that talent can come from anywhere and that art is a language everyone can understand. These awards are like a guiding light, showing budding artists the way forward and shaping the future of art in India.
