Artist Statement
In my art practice, I find profound fascination in the tactile exploration of materials, particularly within the realm of sculpture. For me, sculpture isn't just about creating art; it's a journey of discovery, where the dynamic relationship between objects, their environment, and the viewer takes center stage. The process of sculpting is an endless cycle of experimentation and innovation, where unexpected challenges become opportunities for creative problem-solving.
In a recent exhibition, I present a series of sculptures resembling spools of thread transformed into elegant columns. Inspired by the cultural exchange along the Silk Road, these pieces symbolize a fusion of influences from diverse regions, including China, Turkey, Japan, Korea, Morocco, and India. What sets these sculptures apart is the incorporation of textured fabric into clay, creating a mesmerizing interplay of concealment andrevelation.
As the fired fabric bursts organically, it unveils landscapes and architectural elements reminiscent of the Silk Road's intricate crafts and global cultural exchanges. Each sculpture serves as a window into interconnected narratives of history, craftsmanship, and cultural diversity. It invites viewers to explore a world where past and present merge seamlessly, sparking curiosity and contemplation about our shared human experience.
Bio
Kopal’s passion lies at the intersection of ceramics and painting. she hold a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Ceramics from the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) in the USA, as well as a Bachelor of Visual Arts (BVA) in Painting from MS University, Faculty of Fine Arts, Baroda, India. Currently, she is rooted in her hometown, Khurai, India.Her artistic journey has taken her far and wide, including an invitation to showcase her work at the esteemed Taoxichuan Spring Festival, China in 2024. Additionally, she has had the privilege of being a resident artist at various prestigious institutions, including Tendu Leaf Jungle Resort in Panna, Madhya Pradesh, Art Ichol in Maihar, Madhya Pradesh, and The Clay Studio in Philadelphia, PA, USA.Her works featured in renowned publications such as HyperAllergic, Providence Daily Dose, Metro Philly, and The Hindu, among others. Recognition in the form of the Ravi Jain Memorial Foundation Annual Award, the Shortlisting for Dhoomimal Art Gallery in New Delhi, and the NCECA Multicultural Fellowship serves as a testament to her dedication and artistic vision.She has had the privilege of showcasing her creations in various exhibitions across India and the U.S. Notable highlights include a solo exhibition at The Clay Studio in PA and group exhibitions at The Gelmen Gallery-RISD Museum, Bikaner House in New Delhi, Kalakriti Art Gallery, Hyderabad, 47/A Mumbai, DAAP gallery, Cincinnati, Ohio, India Art Fair, and India Design ID in New Delhi, among others.For her, art is not just about expression; it’s a medium through which she explores themes of culture, emotion, and identity. As she continue to evolve as an artist, she is excited about the opportunity to share her creations with audiences worldwide.