Exploring Artistry and Style Amidst Nature’s Splendor
In a captivating series of black and white imagery, Gautam Kalra delves into the breathtaking canvas of Nubra Valley, Ladakh, to weave a narrative that seamlessly marries fashion, nature, and solitude. This remarkable journey was unveiled on Day 3 at Lakmé Fashion Week, in collaboration with FDCI. Kalra’s deeply personal exploration of self and the world around him culminated in a high-octane partnership that seeks to capture the essence of clothing, both in stillness and motion.
A Creative Duo: Gautam Kalra and Hormis Anthony Tharakan
Renowned creative director and stylist, Gautam Kalra, embarked on this nuanced project alongside his longtime friend and fellow creator, Hormis Anthony Tharakan. With a bond forged over 11 years, they have developed a unique form of non-verbal communication, using their shared vision of aesthetics to breathe life into their work and refine their storytelling.
“The energy emanating from the land of Ladakh is so potent that it continually beckons my soul to return. Hormis shares this deep longing. I yearned to reconnect with my roots and use garments that are simple yet intricate, contrasting against the starkness of this landscape. My aim was to showcase the allure of simplicity and silence. This project, more than any other, had to mirror my personal taste, my journey, my life as seen through my eyes, and my hunger for artistic expression,” shares Gautam Kalra.
“Gautam and I both hold a profound respect and admiration for the work of the legendary photographer Prabuddha Dasgupta. We aimed to pay homage to him by infusing our unique visual language and direction to create something magical,” adds Hormis Anthony Tharakan about their collaborative effort.
The Power of Words: Freddy Birdy’s Contribution
The captivating images brought to life were imbued with enchanting narratives by the legendary wordsmith Freddy Birdy. In a world often dominated by commercial work, Kalra and Tharakan, as creative individuals, sought to embark on a truly artistic endeavor that would convey their perspectives. The project was not without its challenges, as it unfolded in the face of difficult terrain, unforgiving winds, and freezing temperatures. At one point, the team found themselves stranded at the Khardungla Pass, Ladakh, for several hours, waiting for the weather to relent. They humorously credit their survival to “endless cups of chai and Maggi.” Yet, the end result justified their dedication – ‘The Voyage That Time Forgot’ – twenty-six images that blur the boundaries between photography and art. These images combine to form an art-house film that is also a cutting-edge fashion production.
Fashion Meets Art: FDCI’s Vision
Fashion Wears Art, Edition One, marks FDCI’s commitment to reinterpreting both art and fashion by uniting them in a fresh perspective. Under the guidance of Mr. Sunil Sethi, this initiative seeks to honor visionaries in their respective fields by fostering collaborative endeavors.
“I am deeply appreciative of Mr. Sunil Sethi, who not only champions my craft but continually pushes me to raise the bar. My best is never good enough for him; he always demands more and motivates me to deliver,” expresses Gautam Kalra.
In the world of art and fashion, Gautam Kalra’s journey in Ladakh serves as a testament to the harmonious fusion of creative expression with nature’s breathtaking grandeur. In these mesmerizing images, simplicity meets the profound, and silence speaks volumes. It is a testament to the power of artistic collaboration and the enduring allure of timeless landscapes.
