Dust of Imagination by Piyush Yadav
Bikalpa Art Center is set to organize a contemporary exhibition “Dust of Imagination” showcasing a series of monochromatic minimalist photography works by the talented artist Piyush Yadav curated by Saroj Mahato. This exhibition is a thoughtful exploration of the human condition through the minimalist lens that invites viewers on a journey of monochromatic landscapes, where the interplay of light and shadow, form and void, evokes profound introspection and contemplation.
The exhibition has brought 18 promising pieces in display to immerse audiences in the deep riddles of existence offering a transformative experience that resonates on both intellectual and emotional levels. The exhibition will officially open on January 8, 2025, at 5:00 PM. The event will be inaugurated by Ms. Elsa Calley, Deputy Chief of Mission, French Embassy. The exhibition continues until 22nd January 2025 and the gallery opens every day from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.
About the Artist:
Piyush Yadav is a visual artist who prefers photography as his medium of artistic expression, but he also experiments with painting, sculpture, installations, and mixed media.
His professional art practice investigates themes such as human perception, reality, impressions from nature, and the idea of creation. His works typically evoke thoughts, challenging the viewers to question their presumptions and ponder on the underlying riddles of existence. Born in Birgunj, Parsa, Yadav currently resides in Lalitpur. He graduated with a BFA from Kathmandu University School of Arts in 2022. Alongside his professional art practice, he works as a freelance photographer.

Curator's Note:
The world is a reflection of our inner selves, we don't see things as they are, we see them as we are! Dust of Imagination is a thoughtful exploration of the human condition through the minimalist lens of Piyush Yadav. Through the exhibition artist invites viewers on a journey of monochromatic landscapes, where the interplay of light and shadow, form and void, evokes a deep sense of introspection and contemplation. Piyush's work is characterized by its minimalist aesthetic. Each photograph is a carefully composed tableau where the absence of superfluous elements allows the viewer to focus on the essence of the subject. The artist masterfully employs light and shadow to create a sense of depth and mystery.
The series draws upon the rich traditions of minimalist photography, Piyush challenges viewers to confront their own vulnerabilities and question the very nature of their being. His works resonate with the spirit of minimalist masters like Edward Weston and Minor White. Like these pioneers, Piyush employs restraint and precision, allowing the essence of his subjects to emerge with quiet strength. His photographs are not about documenting the world, but rather about revealing its underlying structures, its hidden rhythms, and its profound mysteries. They are not mere depictions of scenery; they are meditations on existence, on the ephemeral nature of reality, and on the enduring power of the human spirit. The artist states, “I view cultural context in my work as the environment that shapes my ideas and artistic expression. The camera is an element of culture in today’s society. What we perceive is influenced by the camera. I believe my ideas create my reality”.
The title, Dust of Imagination subtly narrates the story just as dust settles and shifts in the wind, our perceptions and interpretations of the world are constantly evolving. One of the most striking aspects of Piyush's work is its ability to evoke a wide range of human emotions. A rounded head of a mannequin, hollowed-out appearance, and uneven edges evoke a sense of uniqueness, and an interplay between light and shade creates a sense of balance much like the concept of Yin-Yang. The artist highlights, “The contemporary world is significantly influenced by technological and mechanical developments and it directly impacts each individual differently”. The work “The Day Dreamer” can be both exhilarating and unsettling, inspiring feelings of awe and wonder, as well as a sense of isolation and vulnerability. The carefully composed scenes often allude to human presence, whether through subtle traces of activity or the suggestion of a fleeting human form. These subtle hints serve to amplify the sense of introspection, prompting viewers to consider their own place within the larger cosmic order.
Piyush’s work aligns perfectly with Bikalpa’s founding principle and mission to promote young creative minds, foster experimentation, and encourage innovation. By providing a platform for emerging artists like him, Bikalpa plays a crucial role in nurturing the vibrant Nepali art scene and ensuring its continued growth and evolution. I believe the exhibition Dust of Imagination is a testament to the power of artistic vision and the enduring impact of contemporary art in championing artistic experimentation and innovation.
Saroj Mahato
Bikalpa Art Center
Pulchowk-3, Lalitpur, Nepal