The historic Eros Building, nestled in Mumbai’s Art Deco landscape, recently saw the dawn of a new era with the grand inauguration of India’s pioneer collection of contemporary blown glass art. The unveiling of the Glass and Lighting Gallery by the visionary Arjun Rathi lit up the iconic space, merging its timeless allure with a touch of modern brilliance.
Located in the heart of Churchgate, the Eros Building has long stood as a symbol of Mumbai’s architectural legacy. On a captivating evening, the halls of this revered edifice came alive with a modern twist, playing host to a gathering of distinguished architects, artists, and cultural icons, all gathered to witness the birth of a new artistic endeavor.
The event commenced with a screening of the documentary “Behind The Art: Arjun Rathi,” a captivating exploration by Aarshi Lagarkha Rathi into the collaboration between Arjun Rathi and master glaziers worldwide. It shed light on the Rural Modern Glass Studio, a beacon of innovation rooted in India’s heartland, merging traditional craftsmanship with contemporary techniques. The studio’s roster of renowned artists such as Grant Garmezy, Erin Garmezy, Evan Schauss, Jeremiah Jacobs, Matthew Piepenbrok, Brent Sheehan, Tim Soluna, Anjali Singh, and Gage Stephens, showcase their global experiences, giving life to exquisite sculptures like the Ganesha, Queen Cobra, Dragon Dagger, and more.
Following the screening, guests had the privilege to interact with artists and embark on a guided tour of the remarkable Glass and Lighting Gallery that now adorns the Eros Building. This collection pays tribute to the rich heritage of glassblowing while transcending the boundaries of design. Each piece serves as a testament to the skill and creativity of Indian artisans, reviving a tradition for the modern age.
The choice of the Eros Building as the venue resonated with the event’s focus on cultural continuity, blending traditional crafts with contemporary settings. This milestone celebration successfully intertwined Mumbai’s cultural legacy with its innovative spirit, underscoring the city’s ability to harmoniously merge history with progress.
As the evening drew to a close, the event celebrated not just the preservation of the Eros Building but also Arjun Rathi’s bold vision. By intertwining a modern art space within a heritage site, the occasion bridged generational divides, embodying Mumbai’s identity as a city of unified history and innovation. The Eros Building now stands as a symbol of how heritage spaces can inspire and commemorate contemporary cultural achievements.
Arjun Rathi Design Studio:
Arjun Rathi Design Studio stands at the forefront of creative innovation, seamlessly blending art, architecture, and lighting design into compelling visual narratives. Renowned for its experimental and sustainable approach, the studio consistently challenges conventional design norms by harmonizing traditional elements with modern aesthetics. Through its boundary-pushing projects, Arjun Rathi Design Studio redefines contemporary design, creating impactful and transformative experiences.
Credits: arjunrathi
