Hills of Gold 1964

Curator: Here we have Avinash Chandra’s “Hills of Gold,” part of the Tate Collection. It's a large piece, over two meters wide. My first impression is of swirling energy, almost chaotic. Editor: Indeed. The dominance of ochre and the sinuous lines create a feeling of organic growth, like vines or perhaps even internal organs. It's quite visceral. Curator: Chandra, of course, was deeply influenced by Indian philosophy and Tantric art. The recurring circular motifs suggest a cyclical view of existence, a continuous flow of creation and destruction. Editor: I see that, and I think the layering of forms contributes to that sense of endless unfolding. The lack of defined edges allows the eye to move freely across the canvas, never settling in one place. Curator: It’s so evocative. Looking at it, I can almost smell the earth and feel the warmth of the sun. Editor: And that floating blue orb in the corner - is that supposed to be the moon? Curator: Perhaps. Or maybe a symbol of enlightenment, hovering just out of reach. Editor: An apt metaphor for the mysteries of art, wouldn't you say? Curator: Absolutely. It is interesting to consider the sheer scale. One is engulfed by these golden curves.