Artist Sarnath Banerjee Opens New Drawing Exhibition 'Badly Remembered Things' at Project 88

Artist and graphic novelist Sarnath Banerjee has launched his first art exhibition in 12 years, titled Badly Remembered Things, currently on display at Project 88 in Mumbai until October 29. The exhibition presents a collection of drawings and accompanying texts arranged like a glossary, drawing upon 30 years of personal memories while dismissing conventional nostalgia.

The featured artworks—created using mixed media including watercolour, acrylic, charcoal, gouache, and ink—offer open-ended narratives for viewers to interpret. Rather than adhering strictly to factual record, Banerjee relies on emotion and imagination to process past experiences, ranging from childhood memories during the Non-Aligned Movement era to shared urban routines, such as waiting for municipal water tankers in Delhi.

Reflecting Social Dynamics and Memory

Banerjee emphasizes that the collection does not carry a political agenda, didactic purpose, or an idealised view of the past, noting that earlier eras contained their own societal issues, including casteism and gender biases. He also observes that his work is rooted in a local idiom rather than attempting to conform to Western artistic stereotypes.

The artist's creative process continues to be influenced by his observations across different geographies. Having lived in Berlin for nearly two decades, Banerjee also draws from his recent experiences in India, including observing public gatherings and demonstrations at Shivaji Park in Mumbai as well as Parliament Street and INA in Delhi.

Alongside his visual arts practice, Banerjee integrates recurring fictional characters into his broader narrative world. Among them is street philosopher Walter Shirazi, a Berlin-based figure who explores post-globalisation life and views anxiety as a primary driving force in contemporary society.

New Literary Work and Future Projects

In addition to the exhibition, Banerjee has authored a new book titled Absolute Jafar. The publication features an India-Pakistan love story that unfolds across four cities: Delhi, Chicago, Karachi, and Berlin.

Looking ahead, the artist is seeking funding for an upcoming project titled Insubordinate Textbooks, a concept he has carried for two decades. The proposed work intends to examine history through the vantage point of a low-level clerk present during crucial historical moments.