Vikash Kalra stands as a distinguished contemporary artist, renowned for his innovative work with steel. Building on the legacy of globally celebrated figures like Jeff Koons, Anish Kapoor, and Subodh Gupta, Kalra has established a distinct niche within the art world. These artists are revered for their groundbreaking use of materials, particularly steel, to create sculptures that are not only monumental in scale but also rich in conceptual depth, challenging traditional aesthetic norms and provoking thoughtful engagement.
Kalra’s approach to steel, much like that of his esteemed predecessors, is characterized by a seamless blend of technical prowess, conceptual insight, and an intimate understanding of the medium’s physical qualities. While each artist brings a unique style and vision to their work, their collective contributions have elevated steel as a formidable medium in contemporary art, making it an essential tool for exploring themes related to modernity, industrialization, and the complexities of human experience.
In his “URBAN Thoughts” series, Kalra delves into the emotional terrain of modern urban life, capturing the internal conflicts and dualities that define our existence within the cityscape. His art invites reflection on the tension between the self and the society we navigate—a tension that resonates deeply, stirring both intellectual and emotional responses. Kalra’s work does more than depict this struggle; it embodies it, making us acutely aware of the contrast between the hardness of steel and the delicate nuances of artistic expression.
The emotions evoked by Kalra’s pieces are intricate and layered. The cold, unyielding nature of steel might evoke feelings of rigidity and isolation, mirroring the emotional barriers we often construct in urban environments. Yet, within these austere materials, Kalra introduces organic forms that remind us of the persistence of tenderness and vitality, even in the most challenging circumstances. This interplay of materials serves as a metaphor for the emotional duality experienced in cities—the constant push and pull between connection and disconnection, between strength and vulnerability.
Kalra’s choice of materials—canvas, oil, acrylic, and steel—transcends mere tools of the trade; they are vessels for conveying profound emotional truths. The weighty, industrial feel of steel can evoke thoughts of permanence and immovability, while the organic forms he introduces suggest that life, with all its fluidity and change, continues to thrive. This juxtaposition speaks to our own experiences of living in urban environments, where we often find ourselves balancing the desire for stability with the necessity for growth and change.
As I curate the “URBAN Thoughts” exhibition, I am struck by the personal resonance of Kalra’s work. It challenges us to confront the emotional impact of urbanization on our psyche, prompting us to ask difficult questions: How do these environments shape our identities? How do they influence our relationships with others and with ourselves? The emotions stirred by his art are far from fleeting; they linger, encouraging us to engage in deeper contemplation of our place in the world.
Kalra’s work appeals not only to our intellect but also to our emotions, evoking feelings of both awe and unease. The starkness of his steel installations may initially provoke a sense of alienation, but the organic forms nestled within them remind us of the warmth and humanity that endure even in the most unexpected places. This emotional dichotomy lies at the heart of Kalra’s exploration of the human condition within the urban context.
For me, participating in this exhibition is a deeply emotional journey. It is an honor to curate a collection that not only stimulates thought but also resonates with the soul. Kalra’s work creates a space for dialogue—about the self, our emotions, and the ways in which our surroundings shape who we are. “URBAN Thoughts” transcends the conventional boundaries of an exhibition; it is an emotional experience that challenges us to reconsider our connection to the urban world and, ultimately, to ourselves.
Virendra Shekhawat Curator: “Urban Thoughts” – A Series of Installations of Modern and Contemporary Sculptures in Steel Founder President, Delhi Photography Club Curator, Mandawa Art Village
Vikash Kalra is a self-taught artist and writer based in New Delhi whose work has been exhibited across India and is held in several private and corporate collections.