An exhibition that presents a series of nine monumental projects, constructed to explore the co-existence of extremes, works that are materially rich and diverse in their assemblages – this is what constitutes The Mirror Sees Best in the Dark. It is a solo presentation of Bose Krishnamachari, hosted by Emami Art at Kolkata Center for Creativity that recently turned one. Krishnamachari is intrigued by the closeness between opposites – ornamental maximalism and abstract minimalism. Through these works, he investigates the state of 'obsession', which he says is the source for all evil in the contemporary society. He believes that a mirror draws you in, entraps you. It accumulates your obsessions. It symbolises obsession. Krishnamachari looks at our relationships, our politics, our faiths, our wisdom, our communities – our obsessions.

"His brilliant treatment and usage of various materials create an illusion. A man who dons many hats – an artist, an art lover, curator, founder of the prestigious Kochi Biennale, we are proud to host his show after a long hiatus of nine years," says Richa Agarwal, CEO, Emami Art. But Krishnamachari feels “ …I do not consider my practicing of art to only be when I wield the brush, or scalpel, or chisel. My way of life, in itself, involves the application of my artistic sensibilities…”.

Here, STIR takes an exclusive guided walk with the man himself...

The Mirror Sees Best in the Dark is on display at Emami Art, Kolkata Centre for Creativity till March 10, 2020.