TL;DR: Photographer Gauri Gill's exhibition, "The Village on the Highway," showcases the resilience and creativity of farmers during the 2020-2021 protests in India. Through her lens, Gill captures the makeshift homes and communities built along highways, highlighting an "architecture of resistance" that blends functionality with cultural identity.
A Glimpse into the Protests:
In 2020, Indian farmers, especially from Punjab and Haryana, stood up against new agricultural laws they believed threatened their livelihoods. They marched to Delhi, but when stopped at the borders, they didn't back down. Instead, they transformed highways into temporary villages, showcasing their resilience and unity.
Gauri Gill's Perspective:
Gauri Gill, a renowned photographer, was drawn to this unique protest. She spent 2021 documenting these makeshift settlements, focusing on the "architecture of resistance" the farmers created. Her photos highlight how ordinary farming tools and vehicles became shelters, kitchens, and communal spaces.
The Exhibition Experience:
Gill's exhibition, "The Village on the Highway," is more than just photographs. She brings elements from the protest sites into the gallery, allowing visitors to truly feel the environment the farmers lived in. This immersive approach bridges the gap between the protest sites and the art space.
MediaFx Opinion:
The farmers' protests were a powerful reminder of the strength in unity and the importance of standing up for one's rights. Gill's exhibition not only captures this spirit but also emphasizes the creativity and resilience of the working class. It's a testament to how ordinary people can come together to create extraordinary movements for justice and equality.
