Recently, the Pune based international art gallery Vida Heydari Contemporary (VHC), presented a solo exhibition ‘Terraform’ by the renowned contemporary artist M. Pravat, at the STIR Gallery in New Delhi. The striking artwork delved into the everlasting tussle between urban environments and the natural world, inspiring conversations around sustainability and biodiversity. By bringing together a diverse range of materials – bricks, stone, pigment, dust, paintings, LED lights, and found objects – Pravat presents a body of work that probes into the interrelationships, recesses, and tensions between our built urban environment, and the natural world. M. Pravat’s ‘Terraform’ is an invitation to reflect upon a crisis that also extends into the larger biodiversity on our planet. The artist tells us in detail about his thought process, in a Q&A.
Q – ‘Terraform’ has been met with remarkable acclaim. What initially inspired you to explore the intersection of urban environments and the natural world in this exhibition?
Artist M. Pravat – ‘Terraform’ was inspired by my ongoing exploration of how architecture shapes human experience and perception. The exhibition reflects on the tensions between rapid urbanization and nature, and the impact of large-scale geo-engineering projects on our environment. This exhibition is my way of inquiring about how we humans of these built environments coexist with the natural environment.
Looking back at the creative journey of ‘Terraform,’ could you share insights into your process and the techniques you employed to bring this thought-provoking body of work to life?
I work with diverse materials, including bricks, stone, concrete, pigment, and found objects, to create a layered narrative of urban transformation. My process involves deconstructing and reconstructing architectural forms, allowing me to blend natural and urban elements. Through careful selection and placement of materials, I aim to evoke a sense of an ever-evolving landscape caught in perpetual flux.
Sustainability and biodiversity are central to ‘Terraform.’ How do you feel your art resonates with viewers, and what kind of impact do you hope it will have on their perspectives regarding these critical issues?
I hope that ‘Terraform’ will catalyze reflection on sustainability and our relationship with nature. By presenting urban landscapes in various stages of transformation, the exhibition invites viewers to reconsider their role in shaping a future that respects ecological balance.
M. Pravat – The Knight Was Searching With His Eyes The Whole Riverbank To Find Someway
Your work often juxtaposes the stark contrasts between urbanization and nature. How did you navigate these themes in ‘Terraform’ to create a balanced and compelling narrative?
Striking a balance comes from acknowledging the interconnectedness of the built and natural environments. My art reflects this dynamic tension by blending rigid architectural forms with organic materials, suggesting both conflict and coexistence. It’s about finding harmony within opposing forces.
On a personal note, what is your relationship with the themes of nature, urbanization, and sustainability? Were there any specific experiences or moments that deeply influenced your approach to this exhibition?
Having grown up in Kolkata and lived in other metropolitan cities, I have witnessed firsthand the rapid transformation of urban landscapes and their impact on the environment. These experiences have deeply influenced my approach, prompting me to address issues of sustainability and biodiversity through my work.
As visitors leave ‘Terraform,’ what key message or reflection do you hope stays with them?
The idea behind Terraform was designed to challenge viewers’ perceptions of the environment by exploring climate change, resource depletion, and ecological restoration themes. Therefore, I hope visitors were left with a renewed awareness of the fragile relationship between urban development and the natural world. All in all, ‘Terraform’ is a call to action, urging us to rethink how we interact with our environment and to prioritize sustainable practices.
The exhibition left a profound impact on attendees, sparking deep reflection and inspiring meaningful conversations about sustainability. Many visitors expressed a renewed commitment to adopting eco-friendly practices and supporting biodiversity. Through interactive discussions, expert panels, and collaborations with environmental organizations, Terraform went beyond the art itself to drive real-world action and empower audiences to make a tangible difference for the planet.
Collaborating with Vida Heydari Contemporary has been an integral part of this journey. How has their platform supported ‘Terraform,’ and what has your experience been like working with a gallery that champions such transformative exhibitions?
Working with Vida Heydari Contemporary has been an enriching experience. Their commitment to fostering meaningful conversations through art has provided me with the perfect platform to present ‘Terraform’. The gallery’s support has allowed me to push the boundaries of my practice and engage with a broader audience.
About the Artist – An alumnus of M.S. University, Baroda, the Kolkata born M. Pravat is now a Delhi resident. His art 
examines architectural forms and materials through a fractured lens, using sculpture, installations, paintings and photography. He believes that our lives are unquestionably shaped by the built environments we inhabit. His works have been presented in solo and group exhibitions, biennales and art fairs in Colombo, Delhi, Dubai, Mumbai, New York, Seoul and Zurich. He is a member of the Layout collective along with artists Navid Tschopp, Susanta Mondal, and architect S. Boka. Their projects have been exhibited in the Kochi – Muziris Biennale, 2012, Kiran Nadar Museum of Art, 2013, INSERT, 2014, the Colombo Biennale, 2014, and in non- institutional sites in Delhi and Zurich. He was a recipient of the Pro Helvetia artist residency in Switzerland.
Vida Heydari
About VHC and its founder Vida Heydari – Pune based contemporary international art gallery VHC (Vida Heydari Contemporary) specializes in contemporary art and represents established and emerging artists with diverse backgrounds, across a variety of mediums and genres. Founded in 2020 with an emphasis on authenticity, quality and innovation, the gallery is committed to fostering the careers of its artists and sharing their work with a global audience, providing a platform for under-represented artists, presenting pioneering museum-quality exhibitions, positive collaborations, price transparency and offering a very hands-on and tailored high-quality experience. It has also participated in such art fairs as Art Basel Hong Kong, India Art Fair and India Design ID. In addition to the gallery program, VHC hosts talks, performances, workshops and educational programs to create engaging and enriching artistic experiences that capture the essence of life.
The founder Vida Heydari’s Canadian-Iranian heritage and her long exposure to Indian Culture have informed her curatorial choices. A visionary curator, gallerist and collector with nearly two decades of diverse experience in the global art world, her experience is reflected in VHC’s unique collection that celebrates the fusion of Eastern and Western artistic influences.
