"Illuminating Legacies, the truth seekers" by Yogesh Barve
"Illuminating legacies, the truth seekers"
(Set of 3)
Lightbox; lithophane PLA print
8.3 x 5.9 in
2024
About the artwork
Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, like Buddha, was a relentless seeker of truth. His devotion to uncovering and upholding the truth is evident in his monumental contribution to the Indian Constitution. Drawing inspiration from Buddha’s teachings of equality, compassion, and rational thought, Ambedkar advocated for social justice and human rights. He recognised the deep-seated inequalities in Indian society and endeavoured to create a legal framework that ensured equality for all, irrespective of caste, creed, or gender.
Ambedkar’s commitment to uplifting the marginalised is also reflected in his efforts towards the empowerment of Scheduled Caste women. In 1942, at the Scheduled Caste Federation conference in Nagpur, he stood with women delegates, symbolizing his advocacy for their rights and education. Ambedkar believed that true progress could only be achieved when women, especially those from oppressed communities, were given equal opportunities. His reforms aimed at dismantling the hierarchical caste system and promoting social justice, embodying Buddha’s principles of compassion and equality.
Through his tireless work, Ambedkar not only laid the foundation for a just and equitable society but also became a beacon of hope for millions, following in the footsteps of Buddha’s pursuit of truth and justice.
About the artist
Yogesh Barve (b. 1989) is an artist from Mumbai, India, whose practice spans drawing, painting, sculpture, video, digital technologies, and repurposed found objects. His work challenges established norms and binary structures, using the slash as a symbol of un/learning, de/constructing, and non/conformism.
His works are in the collection of:
Kadist art foundation, Paris
Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, MMCA, South Korea
Dilalica, Art gallery, Spain
Zasha Colah, Curator
Rebecca John, Curator and Art Historian
Shoaib Chadkhan, Curator and Collector
Articles:
Guggenheim: “Where Does That Put You?”: Artists’ Stories in Global Curatorial Practice
Frieze: Southeast Asia Highlights
Feature: Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, South Korea Times