How has the sculpting industry taken a hit during COVID-19?
Sculpting is the visual art form which has been practised by sapiens for centuries. Upon carbon dating, the oldest sculptures found are around 9000 BCE old. Experts say that the sculptures created out of decomposable substances like wood may have been missing. Researchers also opine that the skills required for sculpting may have been developed before humans learned the art of painting!
In early days, Sculptures were used to deliver religious messages to the common crowd, especially to the people who couldn’t read and write. These messages would usually be in the form of stories helping people to understand the difference between humane and inhumane activities. They also helped speculate the importance of leading life in harmony with nature.
A few sculptures were also formed to represent human forms, everyday activities, games, animals and sometimes hunting techniques. Sculptures like the Sun Temple in Konark, Orissa, is an example of such sculpture dedicated to the Sun. The sculptures in the modern world revolve not only around the living objects but have taken up abstract ideas and are filled with a lot of imagination.
Post-Pandemic Scenario:
The Art Industry remains among the worst-hit industries because of the COVID-19 pandemic and the sculptors have been severely affected. As we move on from complete lockdown to the unlocking of businesses, the setbacks still exist, especially in the Arts industry.
Most artists had lined up various art exhibitions and teaching sessions throughout the year. With the virus spreading rapidly, the sessions had to be cancelled. Art galleries had to be shut down.
The peak period of sales for a lot of sculptures is the period from the Krishna Janmashtami to the Diwali as many people buy sculptures of Gods and Goddesses to worship as well as for gifting purposes. The best example is the Ganesha Festival during which the Ganesha Idol is worshipped for 10 days. Because of the pandemic, the fall in Ganesha Idol sales was as much as 80%. Needless to say, some groups/mandals in Mumbai postponed welcoming Ganesha to February 2021.
Aligarh, a city in India where 90% of the sculptures supplied to stores and temples across India are manufactured, has seen a shortage in business during the last few months. As the places of worship and stores are shut down; the demand for sculptures has reduced, even on the online platforms. The store owners and sculptors are hoping that the upcoming Navratri brings them joyous nights with an increased demand for their work.
Sculpting is an important art form that has helped people to understand the evolution of the human race, pass stories from generation to generation and has helped expand the human ideology. It is necessary to encourage these rare artists so that we can keep continuing the legacy that exists from the Stone Age.
Do leave your thoughts about why you like sculptures and their history!
by- Shreya Marda
