Archive of Memory

We are like books.

Most people only see our cover, the minority read only the introduction, many people believe the critics. Few will know our content.

-Emile Zola

Over the years Aishwaryan has developed a distinct manner of speaking through his imagery. Largely autobiographical in nature, his artworks reflect an innate sense of observing the world, and himself within it. His position often shifts between that of a witness, and an active participant in the scenario. Here, he digs from an internal, intangible, repository of thoughts, memories and feelings, transferring their meanings to symbolic narratives in physical form. Each work is composed of multiple fragments; they are gestalt entities, making up more (in content and meaning) as a whole than the sum of their parts.

Each piece can be considered as a chapter from his life, fictionalised through the displacement of time and place, and drawing together varied experiences under a common motif. As a series, they are neither sequential nor do they highlight dramatic shifts; rather, they move through liminal spaces of encounter and learning, indicating Aishwaryan’s continued engagement with the mundane and taken-for-granted. Yet, the subjects are far from simplistic - they subtly interrogate human nature; there are references to identity and belonging, intersections of desire and love, the artist’s journey through self-doubt and coming to terms with realities.

‘Archive of Memory’ becomes a space of contemplation. It invites us to consider the way we play a part in each other’s journeys – individually and collectively - creating impacts, making shadows, leaving traces and voids; bookmarks of connection.

Lina Vincent 2023