GOUTAM GHOSH: "Gypsum"
STANDARD (OSLO)
PRESS RELEASE
-----
GOUTAM GHOSH
31.05.-29.06.2024 / PREVIEW: FRIDAY 31.05.2024 / 19.00 - 21.00
-----
"Now the swaying rows of grass in the distance come into view. The rows of grass trunks on the horizon repeat and fill the field appearing like a carpet. In a steady panoramic shift from left to right, I rub my eyes once again. There is a sense of movement over a progression of the same rows despite the repetition, like tracing a frog hopping through the field. But it is not a very clear picture yet. Let's wait for more time. It is possible the picture might appear clearer under the right exposure.
As shrubs on the horizon pulled the veil, countless grasshoppers flew over the grass. The rows of grasses felt a gentle hum. In trying to see under low light, the eye mimics the sight of a frog catching up with the new order of shades and subtle things. First some colours and then, gradually, the objects emerge at the folds where the colours contrast. The situation has not improved and the picture remained hazy.
When our shadow begins to transcend our finitude in the second half of the day, it marks a difference in the watch. The gesture from the lengthening shadow has been confirmed by the presence of magnetic interference. This hour is called twilight. It is then a yellow beam on the green paddy grass splashes with orange tint. A mild saccade and swift adjustment unconsciously works itself to soak the harmony of design: the horizon appears consumed by the dazzle in the two eyes that burnt itself out under low light.
These two burning holes, at a distance from each other have remained on the beat, each a primordial witness with a difference, to light causing time. These shining pits of dense orange, kept its walls high with thick black paste, so that the golden liquid from the pits do not overflow. Now it is deserted, there is nothing around - no mountains, no rivers, no fields, no farms and no ocean and only an eye shaped burning volcano and hawks gliding over the sky.
The restlessness and anxiety of some time ago has calmed down. The place feels like a pilgrimage without the presence of a noble horse. Now, sitting on a heap of gravel and ruins, remembering all those subtle movements from the lush green. A reminder from the local official, '…never go out after twilight'. The area is affected by the presence of rebels, may not be a pleasant encounter for either of us. Those departing flying dragons from the field were numerous. Where could they have flown at such odd hours? At that hour their presence was already underexposed, the awakened frog under the colocasia was the lone witness; of underexposed slides and shades.
Spirit of collaboration with Angshuman Phukan
