Students Biennale: ‘Babel of the Muted’ Shows Multiple Cultural Narratives

KOCHI:
A stunning installation, “Babel of the Muted”, on display at the BMS warehouse as part of the Students’ biennale, invites viewers to step into a space where multiple cultural narratives converge.

Showcasing the joint efforts of artists Anagha M M, Jijo Varghese, and Abhinand M, the pioneering installation showcases the strength of collaborative creativity, revealing the intricacies of human experience and community stories.

Reflecting on the artwork, Anagha said it emerged from her experiences in fishing communities like Chambakkara and Kumbalangi, where stories and objects hold memories of labour and survival. “Collaborating with Jijo and Abhinand, we crafted an immersive space highlighting culture, memory, and social connections,” she explained.

Handling over 35 kg of jute string was a labour of love, though the intricate process of knotting and weaving pushed the team to their limits, said Anagha, giving details of the making of Babel of Muted.

The installation has received an encouraging response from audiences.

“The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive,” Anagha noted. “Many visitors approached the work with curiosity and remarked on its distinctive and immersive quality.”

This work was part of the exhibition curated by Seethal CP and Sudheesh Kottembram. Curator Seethal notes, “The artists researched their roots, exploring traditional aspects and community practices, highlighting voices often muted in society.”

Jijo Varghese’s contribution to the artwork delves into social structures and human behaviour, born from his observations of people and their interactions. This collaborative installation invites viewers to experience the scale and age of these structures, becoming part of the artwork itself.

“The creation of work required almost three weeks of dedicated effort despite support from friends,” he said.

Abhinand expressed his excitement on participating in the Students’ Biennale for the first time, calling it a “completely new and enriching experience”. He appreciated the opportunity to connect with fellow artists and gain valuable insights that would influence his future practice.