UoG professor launches groundbreaking exhibition by PhD graduate in India

University of Gloucestershire’s Professor Andrew Bick has played a prominent role in the launch of a groundbreaking exhibition by one of his former PhD students in India that blends digital media with traditional art forms. 

PhD alumna Dr Mandakini Devi, whose work combines diverse influences, from Indian ancient art to contemporary street art, presented her first institutional solo exhibition – Fractured and Lensicular – at Alliance Française de Delhi cultural centre in New Delhi.

Professor Bick, Professor of Contemporary Art and Reinterpretation, wrote an essay for the exhibition catalogue, gave a short introductory speech at the opening and took part in a panel discussion with Dr Devi; exhibition curator Jyoti A Kathpalia; the founder of the Centre of International Modern Art, Kolkata Rakhi Sarkar; and the Director of the British Council in India, Alison Barrett MBE.

Fractured and Lensicular features more than 30 pieces of art based around aspects of Hindu mythology in which Dr Devi juxtaposes images from her personal photographic history with themes from traditional Indian art.

Professor Bick, who was lead supervisor for Dr Devi’s PhD, said: “I was absolutely delighted to contribute to Mandakini’s first institutional solo exhibition in New Delhi.

“Mandakin’s practice is underpinned by intellectuality, and it flits between social media posting of daily self-portraits, autobiographical footage, and a repurposing of female Hindu deities as contemporary avatars.”

Dr Devi said: “From my very first lessons in painting, sitting outdoors and observing nature, I felt an inner calm, a voice saying this is what I want to do. When I approach the blank page or the drawing board as I enter my studio, what inspires me is the fact that I have had the opportunity to explore and remember my everyday experiences.”

Professor Bick and Dr Devi  are collaborating on an exhibition that will tour major institutions in India in 2026 that will include work by Professor Bick’s colleagues in the University’s School of Creative Arts.

Image: Andrew Bick (left) and PhD alumna Dr Mandakini Devi at the launch of Fractured and Lensicular at Alliance Française de Delhi cultural centre in New Delhi