Express Message Service
Bhavna Kakar has always traveled with the sole aim of exploring the art world in its true form – whether it be to witness the intricate carvings on the rocks of Bhojpur Temple in Madhya Pradesh or to understand artistic approaches and conversations at Documenta to lead with creative minds Fifteen in Kassel, Germany. In this interview, the art historian and curator, who is also the founder and director of Lado-Sarai-based gallery Latitude 28, speaks candidly about her travel experiences and more. excerpts…
About her favorite childhood memory…
I have many travel memories from my childhood because my father was in the army. I was born in Udhampur, Jammu and Kashmir. I’ve lived in about 12 cities. Once we were in Bhopal. My fondest childhood memory is visiting the Bhimbetka Caves which are located outside of Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh. I was about six then. I also remember going to Bhojpur Temple and even Ajanta and Ellora Caves some time later. Of course, those memories stayed alive because my parents talked about them and discussed the stories about those places.
How Travel Inspires Work…
The art I see around the world I bring back into my work. I travel for art; I don’t make art a sideline of travel. But if there’s an exhibition somewhere in the world, I’m willing to go there and I’ll plan my entire itinerary to prioritize the art. Take, for example, the Documenta Fifteen (it takes place once every five years) or the Venice Biennale (once every two years). I plan my trips so that I can visit them. I am an absolute art lover and bring that into my work.
About her latest travel memory…
I have just returned from Europe. It was my first trip after COVID and I was there for a month. I was at the Venice Biennale and Documenta 15. I also spent around 15 to 20 days in Switzerland. This was a wonderful art pilgrimage I had in Europe. What inspired me to take this trip was my visit to the Outsider Art Museum in Switzerland and how little is known about Outsider Art in India.
I’ve also seen site-specific sculptures in the Engadine in Switzerland. That’s what I want to work towards; I want to inspire people to do public art and site specific work in the country. We have the space, the venues and the beautiful architecture – why can’t we hire people like that? That really got me thinking.
About travel essentials…
I carry the world and beyond with me – hiking boots, umbrella, phone charger, extra phone etc. I carry many Indian things with me – some handmade garments, some goodies, spices etc – and meet friends along the way. I also take a lot of kaftans.
Next destination on their list…
I plan to visit New York later this year; I haven’t been there in the last four years. I would like to go to Florence again next summer and am looking forward to the Kochi-Muziris Biennale [December].
