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Winter brings gentle chills into the city, opening the doors of the National Gallery of Modern Art and inviting one into a world where art, history, and culture come alive. Set amidst elegant heritage architecture and verdant surroundings, NGMA is one of the most important modern and contemporary art destinations in the country. Whether you are a first-time visitor or an avid admirer, Dr Sanjeev Kishor Goutam, Director General, National Gallery of Modern Art, an Indian visionary curator and international artist shares seven ways to spend a day at NGMA this winter: 1. Find “Counting Countenance (Current Exhibition): The Modern and The Becoming” Begin your visit to NGMA with its current exhibition, Counting Countenance. As part of this curatorial project, follow the history of portraiture in India from royal representations of kings and queens to contemporary explorations of self and society. The evolution of portraiture is wonderfully captured, showcasing how it has transformed over time, mirroring shifts in identity, aesthetics, and expression. 2. Walk Through India’s Artistic Heritage Every gallery at NGMA represents a journey of transformation both cultural and artistic for India. The masters of yore, Raja Ravi Varma, Amrita Sher-Gil, Rabindranath Tagore, Jamini Roy, and M.F. Husain showcase timeless works. Each reflects a distinct moment in India’s artistic evolution from colonial encounters to modern experimentation offering a visual dialogue between tradition and innovation. 3. Spend a Quiet Moment in the Sculpture Garden During winter, the Sculpture Garden at NGMA becomes a haven of serenity and creativity. With open skies and modern sculptures, it offers a tranquil retreat from the city’s bustle, where nature and art merge effortlessly. It’s the perfect place for relaxation, reflection, and experiencing art beyond gallery walls. 4. Capture the Beauty Around You NGMA, with its magnificent structure and sunlit corridors lined with vibrant exhibitions, is a delight for photographers and short video makers. Capture the essence of Indian art and culture from the vivid colors of paintings to the intricate details of sculptures and take home memories that reflect your personal artistic journey. Every visit to the National Gallery of Modern Art is a celebration of creativity, an encounter with imagination, history, and human expression. This winter, spend a day exploring the many stories that live within its walls, stories that continue to define and celebrate the spirit of Indian art. Come and explore NGMA, where every brushstroke tells a story, and every moment inspires discovery. 5. Have a Winter Picnic on the NGMA Lawns The lush green lawns and serene surroundings of NGMA are perfect for a winter picnic. After exploring the galleries, relax under the soft winter sunshine with family or friends. Bring along light refreshments, a warm drink, and good company to savor the open air, filled with the scent of creativity. The ambience of art and nature combined creates a deeply rejuvenating experience. 6. Paint Amidst Art and Inspiration Let NGMA itself be your muse this winter. Set up your easel amidst the scenic gardens or draw inspiration from within the galleries. Whether you’re an amateur sketcher or a seasoned artist, painting at NGMA offers a unique opportunity to connect with the very essence of creativity. Surrounded by masterpieces and modern expressions, every brushstroke becomes a dialogue between you and art itself. 7. Experience the 3D Projection Show As dusk falls, don’t miss NGMA’s spectacular 3D Projection Show, an immersive indoor experience that reimagines the paintings of nine treasured artists in a breathtaking visual display. Projected across the dome and walls of the iconic Jaipur House, the show uses light, color, and ambient music to envelop visitors in the beauty and depth of Indian modern art. Designed to enhance public appreciation of these eminent artists, the projection offers a rare chance to step into the world of their masterpieces where technology meets tradition, and every frame tells a story of imagination and heritage.
