Nayan Naveli Gallery Presents “Sketch to Story”

The exhibition “Sketch to Story is curated by Amrita Kochhar, the visionary Founder of Nayan Naveli Gallery, “Sketch to Story” explores the transformative journey of sketches and drawings — from raw creative expressions to compelling narratives. Far beyond their role as preparatory works, sketches offer a rare glimpse into an artist’s imagination, revealing the evolution of thought and the genesis of creation.

The exhibition features a stunning array of works by legendary artists such as Krishen Khanna, Anjolie Ela Menon, Thota Vaikuntam, Sakti Burman, Maite Delteil, and Laxma Goud, alongside contemporary luminaries including Neeraj Bakshi, Maya Burman , and Vimmi Indra. Together, these artists celebrate the profound storytelling potential of a single line, underscoring the power and beauty inherent in sketches.

“Sketch to Story” seeks to redefine perceptions of drawing, showcasing it as an art form in its own right. Each featured work transcends simplicity, offering an intimate view into the artist’s creative process.

Amrita Kochhar shares her thoughts: “We believe every artwork begins as a spark — an idea brought to life through lines and textures. In this process, sketches are the artist’s first dialogue with their imagination: raw yet powerful, fragile yet enduring. This exhibition celebrates drawing as a cornerstone of creation, where a sketch evolves into a story and reveals the artist’s authentic vision.”

Artist Nayanaa Kanodia emphasizes the timeless importance of drawing: “Unfortunately, in modern times, sketching and drawing are often overlooked despite their foundational role in art. This exhibition serves as an eye-opener for collectors and aspiring artists, emphasizing the history and expertise behind drawing. From the caves of Altamira to Lascaux, the story of drawing spans 50,000 years.”

Artist Neeraj Bakshi points out that sketching and drawing are often ignored in modern art: “Unfortunately, these days, sketching and drawing do not receive the attention they deserve, as they require both expertise and experience. This exhibition will provide a valuable opportunity for collectors and aspiring art students to understand the fundamental importance of drawing in art. It highlights the enduring legacy of drawing, which dates back 50,000 years to the ancient caves of Altamira and Lascaux, in contrast to modern installations where lights simply go on and off.”  With its wide variety of artworks and thoughtful curation, “Sketch to Story” is more than just an exhibition — it’s an opportunity to experience the magic of storytelling through sketches and explore the roots of artistic creativity. Each artist has contributed three to four pieces, showcasing their unique style.