Fri Nov 14 12:18:29 UTC 2025: Summary:

The Museum of Art & Photography (MAP) in Bengaluru is hosting a new exhibition called “The Many Lives of the Cat,” running from November 8, 2025, to March 29, 2026. Curated by Khushi Bansal, the exhibition explores the presence of cats in South Asian art and culture across various mediums, including paintings, sculptures, textiles, and everyday objects. The exhibition features works from different periods and styles, aiming to challenge traditional art hierarchies by juxtaposing high art with mass-produced items like matchbox labels. Inspired by the work of the late art historian B.N. Goswamy, the exhibition is divided into four thematic sections, examining the cat as a companion, a mischievous figure, a political symbol, and a fierce creature. It seeks to spark conversations about the cat’s influence on Indian art and the stories it conveys, reflecting the social, political, and cultural events of different eras.

News Article:

Bengaluru’s MAP Unveils Feline-Focused Art Exhibition: “The Many Lives of the Cat”

Bengaluru, November 14, 2025 – The Museum of Art & Photography (MAP) in Bengaluru has launched a unique and engaging exhibition titled “The Many Lives of the Cat,” showcasing the multifaceted role of cats in South Asian art and culture. Open to the public since November 8th and running until March 29th, 2026, the exhibition features a diverse collection of artworks, ranging from 18th-century watercolors to contemporary pieces, alongside textiles, postcards, and even vintage matchbox labels.

Curated by Khushi Bansal, “The Many Lives of the Cat” is inspired by the work of the late art historian B.N. Goswamy, whose insights into the symbolism and significance of cats in Indian art are woven throughout the exhibition.

The exhibition is divided into four sections: ‘The Lazy Companion’, ‘Thieves & Other Mischiefs’, ‘The Political Cat’ and ‘The Fierce Cat’, each offering a different perspective on the feline presence in art. Visitors can expect to see works by renowned artists like Jamini Roy and K.G. Subramanyan, as well as explore cultural artifacts that highlight the cat’s integration into daily life.

“We realized that cats have made so many appearances across time periods, artists and materials,” says curator Khushi Bansal. “This became the starting point of our exhibition.”

A key aim of the exhibition is to challenge traditional art hierarchies by placing “high” art alongside mass-produced items, prompting viewers to consider the cultural significance of everyday objects. Through its diverse collection, “The Many Lives of the Cat” offers a glimpse into the evolving social, political, and cultural landscape of India, as reflected in the art it has produced. Cat lovers and art enthusiasts alike are encouraged to visit MAP and experience this fascinating exploration of the feline mystique.

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