and when you return, we will talk again
to
Centre A: Vancouver International Centre for Contemporary Asian Art 205-268 Keefer Street (Sun Wah Centre), Vancouver, British Columbia V6A 1X5
Kamesh Bharadwaj, “Untitled,” 2020
digital photograph (courtesy of Artist)
Opening Reception: Thursday, April 11, 5 – 8 PM
and when you return, we will talk again is an exploration through the intricate tapestry of migration narratives, both within and beyond the borders of South Asia. The exhibition delves into the evolving essence of the region, transcending political boundaries and examining the complex themes of belonging and estrangement. It grapples with the profound sense of displacement, whether by choice or circumstance, and the evolving concept of ‘home’ where it represents not just a place, but a repository of emotions, connections, and memories woven into our very being.
Through the works by Kamesh Bharadwaj, Bharat Choudhary and Pahul Singh, the exhibition reflects on nostalgia, longing, and yearning to preserve what has been left behind. Within these works lie the complex politics of belonging, where individuals and communities grapple with the ebb and flow of constantly shifting identities. Navigating through these multifaceted narratives, we confront the ever-expanding and shifting meanings of South Asia(n), beyond geographical confines, shaped by growing diasporas and evolving political dynamics. The exhibition challenges us to confront the enduring legacies of colonialism, shedding light on the intricate intersections of power and displacement, from internal displacement to the far-reaching consequences of climate crises, which are exacerbated by profit-driven capitalism and government policies.
At its core, this exhibition revolves around the concept of “home” impacted by a wide spectrum of experiences. and when you return, we will talk again resonates with the voices of those on journeys, carrying echoes of a quest for “home”.