In the world of contemporary art, few exhibitions offer a more intimate and profound insight into an artist’s personal evolution than Poornima Dayal’s new exhibition, KALP, held in Delhi. This dynamic collection, which spans five distinct phases, takes viewers on a visual journey of self-discovery, emotional growth, and transformation, all explored through Dayal’s unique use of colours, textures and abstract forms.
KALP, a word derived from the Sanskrit term for “imagination” or “creation,” delves deep into the various stages of life and the emotional landscapes that accompany them. The five series within the exhibition—Out of the Box, Exploration, Resonance, Impressionist and Cityscapes—each represent a significant phase in her personal and artistic growth. Through these phases, she not only reflects on her internal journey but also invites viewers to join her on a path of introspection and discovery.
The journey begins with the Out of the Box Series, where she introduces the viewer to a vibrant world full of expressive strokes and rich symbolism. This series opens with a tribute to The Ramayana, honoring the divine, before evolving into powerful depictions of strength and warriors that celebrate life’s exuberance. As the colours and forms unfold, deeper layers of the artist’s personal transformation emerge, revealing the intricate processes behind her artistic and emotional development.
The Exploration Series represents a turning point in her work, as she begins to experiment with textures and symbolism to capture the essence of inner discovery. The cityscapes in this phase are abstract, metaphorical representations of her internal world—her evolving understanding of herself and her surroundings. This series invites the viewer to reflect on their own journey of growth, humility, and exploration.
Moving into the Resonance Series, the tone shifts towards serenity. Through soothing blues and greens, she paints landscapes of emotion, evoking peace, clarity, and calm. The quiet introspection in these pieces mirrors the artist’s own search for emotional tranquility, marking a peaceful departure from the intensity of earlier works.
Following the emotional depth of the Resonance series, she presents her Impressionist Series, where abstract forms and strokes capture the essence of life’s progression. The work here speaks to the impermanence of moments—what has been learned, what remains uncertain, and the continual process of transformation. These pieces allow the viewer to feel the artist’s ongoing evolution, creating an emotional connection to the universal journey of change.
Finally, the Cityscapes Series presents a conceptual reimagining of urban landscapes. Though the cities depicted in this series are entirely fictional, they serve as potent symbols of emotional states and personal interpretations of the world around her. The works on canvas and paper, created during different phases of her artistic exploration, invite the audience to consider not just physical spaces but also the emotional landscapes we inhabit throughout our lives.
In an exclusive media statement, Poornima Dayal shared: “‘KALP’ is a deeply personal journey through my own life, expressed in the language of colors, textures and abstract forms. Each phase represents a different aspect of my inner evolution, from the vibrant beginnings of the Out of the Box series to the tranquil exploration of emotions in the Resonance series. Through this exhibition, I invite viewers to walk alongside me on this path of discovery, introspection, and growth.”
Her artistic career spans over three decades. A graduate of the Delhi College of Art, she has evolved from using traditional oils to experimenting with acrylics, allowing her work to take on a new depth and vibrancy. Her art has been featured in prestigious galleries worldwide, including exhibitions in New York, Paris and London.
Speaking about the exhibition, curator Kishore Labar described KALP as “a compelling visual narrative that captures the essence of human transformation. Through her innovative use of color, texture, and abstraction, Poornima not only reflects her personal journey but also invites the audience to reflect on their own life phases. It’s an immersive experience that transcends traditional art, becoming a personal and emotional dialogue between the artist and the viewer.”
Poornima Dayal’s work has earned her numerous accolades, including Talent Prize Awards and special mentions in international art exhibitions. With this exhibition, she continues to challenge boundaries, offering a transformative experience for both herself and her viewers.
For art enthusiasts and those interested in exploring the profound emotional journey that art can provide, KALP promises to be a thought-provoking exhibition.
‘Kalp’ your emotions
