RAMESH MARIO NITHIYENDRAN
Multi-limbed seated figure, 2022
Earthenware
53.9 x 24 x 15.7 inches
September 2022
ABOUT THE ARTWORK
Multi-limbed seated figure is an evocative sculpture that draws inspiration from mythical creatures found in South Asian cultures, serving as a poignant decolonising project. It challenges the demonising gaze historically cast upon South Asian vernacular traditions, inviting viewers to adopt pluralistic perspectives on history. By focusing on non-Western narratives, the work seeks to engage diverse audiences, highlighting the richness and depth of South Asian cultural heritage.
Guardian figures like this one, traditionally created for protection against evil spirits, gain new significance in today's politically divisive and crisis-ridden world. The presence of a belt around its neck, reminiscent of a dog collar, serves as a powerful political commentary on contemporary issues of authoritarianism and control.
This piece transcends its origins, which were never intended for museums or elitist spaces, instead rooted in cultural rituals and everyday life. It stands as a testament to the cross-pollination of cultures, advocating for representation and diversity. In its form and symbolism, the sculpture not only protects but also challenges, urging a reconsideration of who gets to narrate history and whose stories are deemed worthy of preservation.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Ramesh Mario Nithiyendran is a Sri-Lankan born contemporary artist renowned for his dynamic exploration of global histories and figurative representation. He draws inspiration from South Asian imagery and addresses themes like idolatry, pluralism, monumentality, gender, race and religion. Nithiyendran is celebrated for his bold and irreverent approach to ceramic media, though his style extends to diverse materials such as bronze, concrete, neon, LED and fibreglass, as well as painting and printmaking.
Exhibited in museums, festivals and public spaces, Nithiyendran's polychromatic works have gained international recognition. His signature style, marked by a riot of colours and textures, tells a distinctly South Asian story of maximalism. Through his sculptures, he seeks to engage diverse audiences, offering a fresh lens to view art and history, and inspiring a reimagining of current social and political landscapes.
His work has been exhibited in prestigious spaces including the National Gallery of Australia, the Art Gallery of New South Wales, the Dhaka Art Summit, Art Basel Hong Kong and Dark Mofo festival. Nithiyendran's contributions to contemporary art and culture have been widely recognised, highlighted by the Sidney Myer Creative Fellowship in 2019 and his inclusion in the largest historical survey of LGBTQ Asian Art. His first monograph, "RAMESH," was published by Thames & Hudson in 2022.