The Kolorbox, in collaboration with the Advanced Research Consortium Library & Archives, is hosting “The Revival of the Forgotten Art of Manipur: An Exhibition of Modern Subika Art” at Gallery 16Ten in Washington, D.C., from May 9 to May 19. This exhibition showcases over 20 works by artist Sapha Yumnam, who is pivotal in reviving and modernizing Subika art, a rare manuscript painting tradition from Manipur, known for its themes of astronomy, divination, and cultural rituals found in 18th and 19th-century manuscripts.
Subika art is traditionally painted on handmade paper and agarwood bark manuscripts, utilizing the Old Meitei script. The exhibition aims to present Subika art as a contemporary cultural expression, merging historical techniques with modern approaches and materials. Yumnam has evolved this tradition, creating contemporary works based on Manipuri mythology and folktales while maintaining a connection to its historical roots.
Curated by Wangam Somorjit, Director of ARCLA, the exhibition aims to restore and digitize early Manipuri manuscripts, making them publicly accessible. Somorjit remarked on Subika art’s complex cultural history that juxtaposes fragments of the past with a complete visual language emerging in the present. Co-founder of The Kolorbox, Priyananda Soubam, emphasized the initiative’s goal to highlight lesser-known art forms and foster cultural dialogue.
Dr. Yumnam Sapha Wangam Apanthoi M, born in Langmeidong village and an Assistant Professor of Fine Arts at Manipur University specializing in Printmaking, has actively participated in various exhibitions and has been honored with multiple awards, including the State Kala Academy Award.
