Art has been a powerful tool for social change for ages, challenging norms and giving a voice to communities lesser heard. Be it Mexican artist Diego Rivera highlighting stories of the working class in the 1920s or British anonymous artist Banksy’s anti-authoritarian works, art has always been a medium to convey meaningful messages in subtle but strong ways. My Kolkata focuses on four such artists who strive to bring about a change for the queer community through their work and how with their transformative power of art, they are shaping social narratives and promoting inclusivity.
Anirban Ghosh
Anirban's personal journey has profoundly influenced his creative pursuits
For Anirban Ghosh, art is a medium to explore the intricacies of identity and the politics that emerge from it. His work reflects the subcontinental perspective, encompassing the intersections of sexuality, gender identity, class, caste, and religion. As an out-and-proud gay man, Anirban’s personal journey has profoundly influenced his creative endeavours.
He says, “I knew from a very young age that I was different and therefore I always observed the milieu I grew up in, a lot more than I would have if I weren’t queer. I realised the need for awareness and advocacy against discrimination of various kinds since I was also at the receiving end of it.” As a result, through his illustrations, graphic narratives, and films, he seeks to challenge discrimination and use his voice for the rights of queer communities. His art becomes a medium for speaking the truth and promoting social awareness.
Nandini Moitra
Nandini's works often delve into themes of intersectional feminism, mental health and LGBTQIA+ rights
Nandini draws inspiration from the people around her and the socio-political histories that shape our world. She believes that the art and the artist cannot exist separately and that if an artist is queer, their art will be affected by it as well. Her artwork delves into themes of intersectional feminism, mental health and LGBTQIA+ rights. By intertwining these narratives, Nandini seeks to dismantle oppressive structures and create spaces of empowerment.
Arzoo
With a focus on themes of identity, relationships, and health, Arzoo aspires to make the world more accessible and joyful
Arzoo draws inspiration from the mundane aspects of everyday life and blends nature and technology in her artwork. As a proud member of the queer community, emphasising on the importance of accepting and supportive households, Arzoo says, “A good household has truly helped me in my artistic journey and has helped me explore more ways to be creative and happy.” Her artistic journey has been shaped by the love and understanding received. With a focus on themes of identity, relationships, and health, Arzoo aspires to make the world more accessible and joyful through her art.
Veer Misra
While Veer’s artworks beautifully captures queer intimacy, the pieces also tell heartfelt stories
A trained graphic designer and illustrator, Veer Misra has extensive experience with commercial illustration as well as visual storytelling. His work explores ideas of love and intimacy in queer storytelling. While his artworks beautifully capture queer intimacy, the pieces also tell heartfelt stories. Additionally, he also publishes ‘Mush’, a newsletter of essays by South Asian queer writers about loving, longing, losing and learning.
