Lakshmi Madhavan’s installation ‘Hanging by a Thread’ at Alappuzha blends art with life

Lakshmi Madhavan’s installation, showcased at the ‘Lokame Tharavadu’ art exhibition in Alappuzha, is an ode to her roots and celebrates the traditional weaves of Balaramapuram

Woven into the warp and weft of each white and gold mundum-neriyathum (traditional garment worn by women in Kerala) are the threads of a narrative that tell the story of weavers and the beauty of their craft. Also caught in the threads of the garment are memories of festivals and celebrations and of the many women who have worn them and still wear them. An art installation by independent artist Lakshmi Madhavan, which is centred on the cream-and-gold fabric, is one of the highlights of ‘Lokame Tharavadu’ (the world is one family), an art exhibition at Alappuzha, curated by artist and Kochi Biennale Foundation president Bose Krishnamachari. Featuring works of 267 artists, including 56 women, from 15 countries, who trace their roots to Kerala, it is one of the biggest art events in India.