A Thousand Mangoes

Published as part of Shisha s Parampara programme, a series of solo exhibitions by British South Asian artists, A Thousand Mangoes explores the origins and cultural meanings of foods through new installation work. Mallu s work challenges the boundaries of visual culture considering the ways in which society is fused by the sensual qualities, ephemeral characteristics and cultural meanings of natural ingredients such as fruits and spices. Her artwork captures the tastes, textures, smells, and forms associated with food-making and she reminds us of our relationship with growth and decay; organic processes that surround us on a day-to-day basis. Mallu s multi-layered artwork excites the senses but also engages in social and political issues. She entices the viewer to look deeper and deeper to discover the act of transformation; the art of creating illusion thus changing natural and organic materials into a new aesthetic.