North-Eastern Artists Shine at Kochi-Muziris Biennale: A Reflection of Identity and Nature

Artistic Exploration of Gender Norms and Nature's Nurturing Essence

Two artists from the North-East region of India, James Alfred Rymbai from Meghalaya and Puja Lamgu from Arunachal Pradesh, recently showcased their works at the Kochi-Muziris Biennale (KMB) 2025-26 in Kerala. Their artworks, which delve into themes of gender norms and the nurturing essence of nature, are a testament to their personal experiences that resonate broadly.

Bamboo Weavings and Wood Carvings: A Tribute to Indigenous Traditions

James Alfred Rymbai, an alumnus of Martin Luther Christian University (MLCU) in Shillong, displayed bamboo weavings at KMB. Rymbai's works not only involved weaving but also painting on the bamboo canvas. His artwork presents a bamboo structure extending from the earth, embodying Mother Nature's deep connection to the environment and her role as caretaker. The heart at its centre signifies life and vitality, drawing from rich indigenous traditions.

Navigating Identity and Societal Expectations

Puja Lamgu's work reflected a more contemporary theme. One piece featured a wooden figure, crafted from various woods, symbolizing the complexity of identity. The figure's body is a woman, open and vulnerable, while its masculine face conveys a sense of intensity, mirroring the struggle to navigate societal expectations and personal fears.

Connecting North-East and the Broader Indian Context

The experiences of Rymbai and Lamgu during the KMB, as well as the themes in their artworks, resonate with the broader Indian context, particularly in the North-East region. Incidents of racism against Northeasterners are not uncommon, and these artists' works serve as a powerful reminder of the challenges faced by people from this region in navigating their identity within a larger cultural landscape.

Empowering Dialogue and Reflection

Both Rymbai and Lamgu aim to illuminate the beauty in differences and the strength found in collaboration. Their works foster dialogue about the challenges of identity and the power of nature as a refuge, encouraging viewers to reflect on their own experiences and the connections they share.

Through their art, Rymbai and Lamgu hope to make a difference, raise awareness about the concerns of Northeasterners regarding racism, and help change the mindset of people outside the Northeast. Their participation in the KMB marks a significant step in promoting the rich cultural diversity of the North-East region on a national platform.