A groundbreaking Los Angeles exhibition challenges conventional narratives of South Asian art history by spotlighting contemporary Sikh artists and their profound contributions. Curated by Syona Puliady of the Fowler Museum of Art and Sonia Dhami of the Art & Tolerance organization, the exhibition titled “I Will Meet You Yet Again: Contemporary Sikh Art” features 40 diverse works encompassing sculpture, photography, painting, and more, providing a comprehensive exploration of Sikhism’s cultural heritage and diaspora.
In a landscape where major US museums have showcased only a handful of exhibitions dedicated to contemporary Sikh art, this exhibit stands out as a significant milestone. Puliady and Dhami collaborated with scholars, artists, and religious practitioners over two years to assemble a collection that transcends traditional boundaries and amplifies marginalized voices within the Sikh community.
One distinctive aspect of the exhibition is its thematic organization, which delves into various facets of Sikh identity and history. From reflections on the 1947 Partition to explorations of gender, artistic expression, and environmental activism, the artworks collectively offer a multifaceted portrayal of Sikh experiences and struggles.
Among the highlights are works celebrating Sikh women, whose achievements have often been overlooked in institutional settings. Notable pieces include towering tapestries by the Singh Twins depicting influential figures like Sophia Duleep Singh and Amrita Sher-Gil, symbolizing the intersection of tradition, feminism, and colonial legacies.
Another poignant section of the exhibition focuses on the traumatic events of 1984 when the Indian government initiated a violent pogrom against the Sikh population. Through powerful artworks like Arpana Caur’s “Wounds of 1984,” the exhibition honours the memory of those who suffered during this dark chapter in Sikh history, shedding light on the enduring impact of state-sponsored violence.
A particularly moving addition to the exhibition is an excerpt from Gauri Gill’s “1984 notebook,” offering a firsthand account of the anti-Sikh pogrom through interviews and photographs of survivors. Gill’s project serves as a testament to the resilience of those who have endured injustice and continue to seek truth and justice.
Through these diverse artworks and narratives, “I Will Meet You Yet Again” not only expands our understanding of Sikhism but also challenges prevailing notions of art history and representation. By centring on Sikh voices and experiences, the exhibition provides a platform for marginalized communities to reclaim their stories and assert their presence in the cultural landscape.
For Dhami, the exhibition represents more than just a collection of artworks—it is a testament to the resilience and spirit of the Sikh community. As she reflects on the overwhelmingly positive response from visitors, she emphasizes the importance of creating spaces where diverse stories can be shared and celebrated, ultimately fostering a sense of belonging and home for all.
As “I Will Meet You Yet Again” continues to captivate audiences in Los Angeles, it serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of art to challenge, inspire, and unite us in our shared humanity.