Endurance: A Vision of Resilience in a Precarious World

A four-week course that investigates the concept of resilience within contemporary society. Throughout the course, participants will examine how resilient communities are portrayed amid challenging political environments. A key focus will be on Shanti Panchal’s unique painting practice, which vividly encapsulates themes of interdependency and exile, deeply rooted in his experiences and artistic explorations. This session particularly delves into Panchal's distinct style and the path that led to his significant piece, Endurance, displayed at Brixton Underground station. His diverse influences range from classical fresco and Indian miniature paintings to his early life in Mesar, North Gujarat, offering a rich tapestry of cultural and artistic narratives.

The course continues with an exploration of Panchal's roots and the profound impact of his upbringing in North Gujarat on his artistic expression. Participants will explore the cyclic interplay between rural origins and urban realities, a theme commonly observed in the works of South Asian artists like Prafulla Mohanti and Rasheed Araeen. Additionally, the course will cover the historical context of the Greater London Council's Anti-Racist Mural Project during the 1980s, which intersects with the Black British Art Movement, providing a backdrop to the racial and cultural dialogues that influenced Panchal and his contemporaries. By engaging with these diverse elements, the course aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of resilience as depicted through Panchal's work and the broader narrative of artists responding to socio-political challenges.