Karuppu ︳Counter-Mythologies of Resistance (Solo)

Karuppu is Siva's first institutional solo exhibition presentation in the United Kingdom. Karuppu [கருப்பு], meaning darkness and shades of black in the Tamil language, brings together drawings, paintings, and tapestries. Iin this Dravidian context, is laden with complex subtexts related to social hierarchy amid the Indian caste system. Central to the exhibition is the reinvention of Indian mythologies. Siva’s work critiques Hindu scriptures and ancient Sanskrit texts which often perpetuate the discrimination of lower-caste individuals. Deliberately countering the lack of positive imagery associated with Dalit communities, Siva creates depictions of joy and freedom which envision a future beyond these boundaries.