REBUILD THE RUIN

Project Details

THEME : URBAN INSTALLATION

CATEGORY: ART

COLLABORATOR: FOCO GALLERY

DATE: NOVEMBER 2019

Amidst the historic contours of Ahmedabad's old city, a symphony of urban revitalization reverberates through the enchanting alleys and streets. It is within this vibrant tapestry that a collaborative design unfolds, capturing the essence of heritage preservation and creative rejuvenation.

As our institution stands at the helm of these transformative endeavors, we proudly present a profound expression of this spirit through a captivating exhibition curated by Benjamin Gonthier.

Embracing the ethos of heritage revitalization, this exceptional project takes center stage during Ahmedabad's Heritage Week—an annual celebration that celebrates the rich legacy and cultural fabric of the city.  As it comes alive with vibrant festivities and meaningful explorations, the design encapsulates the very essence of this celebratory spirit, offering an immersive experience that seamlessly interweaves art, architecture, and the cherished narratives of the Heritage Of Ahmedabad Old City.


CURATED by Benjamin Gonthier

Amidst the tapestry of the landscape, the character of a ruin stands as a compelling and captivating element. Boldly born from the remnants of dying vernacular architecture, the abandoned and broken space beckons to the collective imagination. It is a testament to the passage of time, a canvas upon which the story of generations is painted. This installation, in its artful conception, ingeniously redefines the very essence of space. As it envelopes the life around it—the homes, the locals, the spectators—the boundaries between the physical and the ephemeral dissolve, breathing new life into the surroundings.

A coalescence of fractured building elements and intimate portraits of the neighborhood's inhabitants evokes a resurgence of the profound sense of belonging. Through this artistic dialogue, the past intertwines with the present, and the essence of a place is intricately woven into the fabric of human existence. The passage of time that has bestowed the plot with its current state endows it with a collective ownership. It belongs to every perspective that graces its presence, to the very souls who call this area home, who have forged an unbreakable bond with the ruins that stand as silent witnesses to their stories.

This exhibition stands as an eloquent tribute, a heartfelt homage to the "people of Dhal Ni Pol." The true custodians of the living heritage, their lives interwoven with the ruins, breathe life into the remnants of the past. As the exhibition unfolds, it serves as a vivid tableau, a testament to the patrons of this dynamic heritage. Through the collaborative efforts of visionary minds and skilled hands, a captivating narrative emerges—one that pays reverence to the enduring spirit of the place, and the indomitable connection between past, present, and future.


photography session by Shalin Thakkar