Vaitasa: ( vetasa } ) (Sanskrit) made of or peculiar to a reed ( - sI vRtti }, `reed-like action' i.e. yielding to superior force, adapting one's self to circumstances; or a basket made of reed.

 

Vaitasa brings together six emerging artists who respond to the pandemic's global upheaval, as the syncretic collection of works narrate the personal journeys and experiences we've encountered throughout this continuous pause. Using art as a form of escapism, this multidisciplinary exhibition draws on social, political, and cultural references to explore and highlight a transformative period of adjusting and adapting through creativity. 

 

The world has borne witness to the devastating impacts of the pandemic. Yet, although we are situated apart, our lived experiences seem vastly similar. As the human mind wanders when we sit in stillness, we become more in-tuned with our inherent consciousness, emotions and beliefs. Separated from others, this pause is a time for introspection and self-reflection. These artists create a common thread by combining subjects and colours to convey an overarching story of a life made up of finite moments. As Italian physicist Carlo Rovelli puts it – "the entire evolution of science would suggest that the best grammar for thinking about the world is that of change, not of permanence. Not of being, but of becoming". 

 

Creating a stronger sense of community as we spent this last year apart, the artists worked in symbiosis from different cities to produce a collection of works that analyse and embrace change by balancing the bad with the good. While examining the impacts of the pandemic on contemporary society, Vaitasa mediates on our resilience and eternal bond as we navigate through uncertain times.