Students’ Biennale: ‘Tension of Belongings’ explores complexities of belongings within communities

Kochi / January 29, 2026

Kochi, Jan 29: The "Tension of Belongings" project, which forms part of the Students' Biennale, explores the complexities of belonging within communities, examining how identity is constantly negotiated and redefined through contemporary artworks.

The exhibition, displayed at the BMS (Brights) Warehouse, has been curated by Seethal C. P and Sudheesh Kottembram, featuring three independent artists from Andhra Pradesh: Gorle Lokesh Kumar from the Fine Arts Department of Andhra University; and Vaditha Hari Naik, and Ponduru Yogeswar Rao from Dr YSR Architecture and Fine Arts University, Kadapa.

‘Tension of Belongings’ responds to the memories of a community that migrated from different parts of India to Andhra Pradesh.

Explaining the curatorial vision, Seethal notes that Naik’s practice emerges from a deep engagement with his community, with his art drawing upon the memories that shaped his identity.

She further highlights his experimentation and innovative approach, particularly his use of roti (flatbread) as a medium, painted upon to create layered visual narratives.

Regarding Gorla Lokesh Kumar, she points out that his work is a reflection of his village and agricultural background. “In his artwork, he observes how the field, agriculture and all those things are part of his culture and he’s responding to that culture and observing each element which is there in their day-to-day life".

This observation, she says, creates "a dialogue of the tension of these belongings basically." This is why she conceptualized the project as Tension of Belongings.

“My artworks are a reflection of my farming background and the struggles and joys of farmers' lives,” says Kumar. "The bicycle, a vital tool for farmers, is the central theme of this series, showcasing the reverence with which they are treated during Sankranti, the harvest festival."

The artwork has a set of three paintings, depicting the decorated parts of a bicycle, symbolizing faith, protection, and gratitude. “The mango leaves on the handle, lemons on the sack, and the decorated wheel rim – each element tells a story of the farmer's relationship with their tools,” Kumar adds.

As for Vaditha’s artwork, it features acrylic paintings of rotis that have not broken despite being displayed for eight months. "I wanted to showcase our culture and the significance of rotis in our daily lives," she says. "As a Banjara member, I've researched and documented our community's history and traditions, and I'm proud to share this with the world.”

She further explains that her work is inspired by the resilience of rotis, a staple food in her culture. "I observed that the more you eat, the stronger you become, and I wanted to capture this idea in my art.”

About his artwork, Ponduru Yogeswar Rao Rao says, “The idea to work with clay began when I was in Class 10, after I made my first Ganesha sculpture. It sparked my curiosity to experiment with and explore new forms of expression. Works such as Mud Head, Triumph of the Labour, Broken Pot, and Togetherness reflect deeply personal narratives drawn from childhood experiences, community traditions, and the realities of pottery labour.”

Under the guidance of Sandeep Machkarla, he learnt advanced ceramic processes, including clay body preparation, glaze formulation, and firing techniques.

The exhibition is a thought-provoking exploration of identity and community, presenting a powerful addition to the Students' Biennale's artistic discourse through diverse mediums and perspectives.

ENDS

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