The most awaited annual art extravaganza in the country kick started with a press meet recently at the Le Medridian Hotel. The eight edition of the India Art Fair 2016, scheduled on the 28^th of this month, saw key members of the artistic community come together to examine and discuss India’s position in an ever-evolving global art scene and how India Art Fair 2016 can best position itself, within the Indian context.

The panel included Neha Kirpal, Founding Director of India Art Fair,Tasneem Mehta, Managing Trustee and Honorary Director of the Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum, Mumbai, Zain Masud, International Director, India Art Fair,Philipp von Sahr, Head of BMW India.

Speaking on the occasion, Neha Kirpal, Founder Director stated the India Art Fair is fifth among the most attended fairs in the world and has acquired a position of great responsibility to deliver a model that is relevant to the global art scene, positioning India on the international art map and also promoting in the local scene. She also mentioned that the two key elements of the fair this time are access and education, and building of the foundations for art market which would also reflect the criticality of art for younger generations.

Tasneem Mehta talked about the new developments that have been taking place on the global stage stating the exhibitions of contemporary Indian art across the world and the creation of new Indian and South Asian acquisition committees are some  indications of a shift of perception in terms of where India is on the global stage.

(left) Dhoomimal Gallery, Anjolie Ela Menon, Untitled, Oil on Board, 26 x 36 inches, Undated; (right) Thomas Erben Gallery, Yamini Nayar, As Yet Untitled, C - Print, 50 x 40 Inches, 2015

The young international director for India Art Fair Zain Masud, put forth the current state of the arts and the market in India is as one of incredible potential. “Whilst there is struggle and a lack of legislative support and need still to build greater understanding of, and confidence in, contemporary art in India—and support of the primary market—the talent here is endless and this is one of the territories of the art world at large where the Souzas and Husains of the future, are incredibly accessible” she also added that one of the most significant issues to the state of contemporary art in 2016 is the ongoing shift in interest and power from the West to the East.

Art Konsult, Shridhar Iyer, Jatra, Acrylic on Canvas, 48 x 96 inches, 2015

BMW India is the partner for the art fair and Philipp von Sahr Head of BMW India who was also present at the meet praised India Art Fair for its consistency, quality and for not being afraid of doing something new. “We love the fair because not only do they bring many opinion leaders and target groups, but also their creativity and their trial and error approach.  This is the only way you can create the future -  by embracing risk - to try things that maybe don’t always work, but to stay innovative and to always look ahead. Sometimes it is necessary to take risks.” he said.

 Stressing on the need for sustainability of the arts which till now has come ahead due to partnerships and private collaborations along with bringing a network of people across the country, everyone agreed more government support is desirable to expedite and communicate it further to the masses.

It is a surely a crucial time for the Indian Art scenario and the art fair this year will be something to look forward this month end in terms of the exhibits and the path that will be carved thereafter.