Welcome Readers,
As India Art Fair 2025 nears the horizon, our excitement is escalating. Numerous galleries have walked the pavilions of IAF 2025, with some emerging Contemporary Artists establishing themselves as a staple in this art fair.
Today we have with us Moksha Modgill. She is the Art Director at Galerie Geek Art. As we all know Galerie Geek Art has championed a selection of contemporary artists from Asia, sheltering a diverse roster of artists, since its inception. As they further their footprint and their mission with the 16th edition of India Art Fair, we sit down with them for a little tête-à-tête.
Q. Hello Moksha. It’s a pleasure to converse with you. First of all congratulations on your participation at India Art Fair 2025. Let’s get the ball rolling. Could you tell us about Galerie Geek Art and its mission?
Moksha Modgill: Thank you so much. Galerie Geek Art was founded with the vision of merging Asia’s evolving creative identity with global artistic dialogues. We see art as a bridge—one that connects cultures, perspectives, and artistic traditions across borders. Our mission is to spotlight visionary artists who challenge sociocultural constructs, experimenting with form, material, and narrative to offer fresh thought-provoking perspectives that represent the time we live in today.
With spaces in Tokyo and New Delhi, we’ve quickly established ourselves as a hub for contemporary art that transcends geographical and aesthetic boundaries. In just a year, we’ve had the privilege of exhibiting works by exceptional artists from Japan as Shun Sudo, Kenji Yanobe, and Tarini Sethi from India—each of whom brings a distinct yet resonant voice to this ever-evolving landscape.
Our footprint between Tokyo and New Delhi grants us a unique perspective representing the dynamic interconnectedness that has emerged in our highly interactive world while holding the essence to its roots. If art does not stand to capture this amalgamation then I question what would. We aim to position ourselves as a one-of-a-kind Asian gallery that captures, imbibes and reflects the evolving landscape of today.
Q.As we know, the India Art Fair is a hotspot for contemporary South-Asian art. This begs the question – what is the relevance of a Japan-based gallery, such as yourself in such settings?
Moksha Modgill: While our roots are in Japan, our vision is global. With the India Art Fair being a leading hub for South Asian contemporary art, it is the perfect setting to showcase how these cultural conversations unfold. By participating, we’re not just presenting Japanese or East Asian works but emphasizing the shared narratives, influences, and innovations that transcend borders. The collectors and visitors at the India Art Fair are also a reflection of how the tastes and inquiries of Indians today are more open than ever to welcome fresh perspectives on art Reflecting Identity and Culture. In tandem with this change, we are not just presenting Japanese or East Asian works in our participation but emphasizing the shared narratives, influences, a innovations that transcend borders.
As someone of Indian heritage who grew up in Japan, I’ve always been drawn to the intersections of cultures, aesthetics, and histories/details. The flow of my curatorial selections is a natural reflection of this—bringing together artists from across Asia as the diaspora, fostering dialogue between traditional forms and contemporary practices, to give Galerie Geek Art a contemporary and vibrant voice.
Q. Could you tell me about the represented artists who’ll be the centre of attraction at the 16th edition of IAF? Taken from your diverse roster, what makes these artists Unique?
Moksha Modgill: Our curatorial theme at the India Art Fair this year is ‘Medium as the Muse’, focusing on how artists draw inspiration from the very essence of their medium—a tangible, dynamic dialogue between creator and material a natural partnership between artist and his muse, breathing life into the artwork where the nature of material acts as a muse and a collaborator. The pieces we are showcasing embody “in-spirare”—to breathe into. The material becomes a vessel for reflection, an echo of the artist’s inner world, and a mirror to the complexities of modern existence.
We’ll be showcasing Harsha Durugadda’s sculptures this time. Harsha comes from a family of traditional temple sculptors, and his practice focuses on exploring the layered essence of materials, viewing them as repositories of life’s narratives and Social Commentary through Art. He engages in a meticulous process of carving wood, creating a dialogue that examines the flow of life and evokes a sensory connection. His work reveals the intrinsic bond between materiality and existence and was also auctioned at Sotheby’s in 2021.
Alongside we have Pannaphan Yodmanee from Thailand, whose art explores spiritual dimensions, drawing inspiration from Buddhist cosmology and architectural decay. Her latest works expand on her spiritual and mythological themes, incorporating materials like linen, wood, and cement. The final result is quite stunning.
Our curation also includes artworks by Motoi Yamamoto, whose approach is especially intriguing with his conceptual Art Exhibitions. Motoi-san’s process is ritualistic and meditative, often performed in complete silence. He uses salt as a medium in several of his installations. Salt has been deeply connected to human life in both Eastern and Western cultures. In Japan, it is an essential element in customs like funerals, symbolizing purification and the transition of the soul. Salt holds a deep emotional and symbolic significance for him and he sees it as a crystal of memory, containing traces of life from the past.
Every artist that we are showcasing has a deep connection with the medium of their choice.
Q. This is not your first time at IAF, is it? What are you looking forward to in this edition of the India Art Fair? We all strive to be better, and I wouldn’t expect anything less from the gallery. How are you planning to take it to the next level?
Moksha Modgill: What we try to do is explore how we can take the curation one step further and bring meaning to the work that we put out. Ours is a group show, it’s not a solo show, and we try to tell a story through it. We of course try to represent the contemporary, the young and the new-age, but we also keep the focus on bringing in a comparative dialogue between various places. The last time we were at IAF, we had only Japanese artists in our curation. This time we have Japanese artists but have also brought in two Indian artists and a Thai artist. We’re increasing our footprint and the depth of this dialogue is getting louder. You see something very cohesive that at the same time is building a young and exciting narrative.
As a gallery, we focus on intimacy and connection with the artworks. We strive to bring this forward through our booth design and curation. We plan the circulation, the message via which you encounter the booth and then how piece by piece the intention becomes clear. We try to best communicate the expression of the artist, and our curation is an introspective journey to open a dialogue on what represents the contemporary. The medium an artist chooses to work with is an intentional collaboration, a unique artistic language. It is an observation of diversity.
In the upcoming editions, we have opened a fresh curatorial note to introduce a layered perspective on the contemporary. With a variety of materials and artistic languages, we are introducing a new take on how Asian art is evolving and it has such a diversity that audiences will be appreciative of fresh ideas.
Q. Let’s talk about the art market trends Moksha, shall we? What do you see selling more — is it contemporary artists or established personalities? How were the sales for you last year? Are there any projections you’ve made for the new edition?
Moksha Modgill: While Modern Art and established artists have their undeniable allure within the art market, we have a new surge of art appreciators and collectors, who are eager to engage with contemporary artworks that represent their time and identity. With more international artists coming to India, collectors now have a variety of artistic practices to relate to, and that’s exactly what we see within our clientele. Since our society is increasingly becoming more global, the regional boundaries within the art market are also slowly ceasing, allowing for more appreciation and awareness.
The perception in the art market is that modern and established artists sell well, largely because their works are seen as high-value assets. It’s a trading market, and people often view modern art as something that can be bought and sold with relative ease. If you’re looking to trade in the short term, modern art makes sense as an investment.
However, art is much more than just an asset—it’s about resonance and personal connection. Many contemporary artists today may not yet have a strong secondary market presence, but collecting art isn’t just about flipping it for profit in two years. a long-term journey. Art can become a part of your home, your family, something that lives beyond you—almost like an heirloom. It’s not just about financial investment; it’s about emotional and cultural value.
Last year, we saw this reflected in our sales. Many collectors, some of whom had never heard of certain artists before, were drawn to pieces because they truly connected with them. This shift towards personal resonance over pure market value is becoming more prominent. Additionally, in India, we’re witnessing a fascinating blend of art with design and architecture, bringing a new creative dimension to the market.
At the same time, contemporary art from this region is gaining traction. It’s becoming a representation of our time—just like a Pink Floyd poster from decades ago still holds meaning today. The works we’re showcasing now will remain relevant and exciting even 20 or 30 years from now. These contemporary artists are change-makers, shaping the cultural narrative of our time, and that’s what makes this moment in the art market so exciting.
Q. You have participated in multiple art events, fairs, and exhibitions. What makes the India Art Fair different from them? Or is it th IAF is yet another art fair?
Moksha Modgill: India Art Fair is a pioneer in the Indian art space, playing a crucial role in bringing together the art community and cultivating a culture of large-scale art events. What sets it apart from other fairs is its ability to not just showcase galleries but to transform the entire city into a hub for art experiences. Beyond the fairgrounds, numerous events and activations take place, making art more accessible and engaging for a wider audience.
What’s truly exciting about India Art Fair is that it offers an experience beyond just the material—it’s immersive, thought-provoking, and even performative at times. Whether you’re deeply involved in the art world or simply curious, there’s something that pulls you in. The fair has solidified itself as a landmark cultural event in India and is gaining global recognition, positioning itself on the international art scene.
In terms of exposure, the India Art Fair does an excellent job of not just providing visibility but also curating its programming and gallery placements thoughtfully. This year, for instance, we’re seeing a fresh approach with changes in outdoor exhibits and the VIP pavilion. It’s exciting to see the blend of esteemed foundations, with galleries and artworks taking centre stage and creating a holistic experience in the VIP pavilion. There’s also a dedicated pavilion for designers, reinforcing the idea that art isn’t just about traditional gallery spaces but extends to everything that connects with it.
Ultimately, the India Art Fair is more than an exhibition—it’s a platform for community building. It brings together artists, collectors, curators, and enthusiasts in a way that fosters dialogue, collaboration, and cultural exchange. That’s what makes it such a vital and dynamic event in the art world.
Q. There is no denying that India Art Fair is not just an exhibition, but also a platform where community building is a given. What other benefits do you think the other galleries, who aren’t participating this year, are missing out on?
Moksha Modgill: I think the biggest thing galleries miss out on by not participating is the exposure. India Art Fair brings in a diverse range of collectors, especially in the fir two days, creating a concentrated opportunity for sales and networking. Beyond that, the fair attracts a wider audience, including people who may not typically visit standalone galleries but come to explore and engage with art in this immersive environment.
One of the most inspiring aspects of the fair is how it connects with young audiences—students, recent graduates, and aspiring artists—who absorb so much from the experience. It’s not just about selling art; it’s about visibility, conversation, and inspiring the next generation of artists and collectors. While standalone galleries are powerful in their own right, the immersive nature of an art fair elevates the entire experience. It’s a true celebration of art, and that’s something special.
Q. What are your thoughts on India’s growing participation in the global art landscape?’
Moksha Modgill: India’s growing participation in global art fairs is incredibly exciting, and I’m thrilled to see more Indian galleries stepping onto the international stage. We’re witnessing increased representation across Asia—in places like Hong Kong, Singapore, and Korea—as well as a steady presence in Europe and America. While the number of Indian galleries in Western markets is still relatively small, the fact that we’re seeing both galleries and individual artists gaining recognition globally is a significant st forward. The dominance of Western tastes, which has long influenced artistic trends, evolved as countries from the Global South and East Asia emerged as key contributors, redefining the art market and its creative direction.
Even for galleries that may not yet be able to fully exhibit, I would highly encourage them to engage in some capacity—whether through an installation, an activation event, or a collaboration. Being present on these international platforms is crucial for visibility and networking, and it contributes to India’s growing voice in the global art scene.
As for the future, I absolutely believe Indian art will continue to expand its global footprint. India has always had a deep artistic heritage—centuries-old art from the country is already present in homes and museums worldwide. The real question now is how contemporary Indian art is being recognized. What’s emerging is a powerful fusion of tradition and modernity, where artists are holding onto cultural roots while presenting a new-age vision. We’re seeing this more and more, but there’s still vast potential for further growth and global engagement.
Q. Where can our readers find out more about Galerie Geek Art and its ethos? Do you currently offer a virtual gallery tour? If so, where can they find
Moksha Modgill: You can find Galerie Geek Art at Booth J01 at the India Art Fair from February 6-9. We’ll also be opening a private viewing space in Saket right after the India Art Fair concludes. We’re also on social media at galerie.geekart.
Q. Thank you so much, Moksha for sitting down with us. We wish you the best for the India Art Fair. See you there 🙂 Would you like to add some closing thoughts?
Moksha Modgill: Thank you so much! I look forward to having the art community and art enthusiasts explore our curation. As a closing thought, I believe art is deeply personal and meant to be enjoyed. It’s not just about acquiring a luxury item—it’s about finding something that resonates with you, something that becomes a part of your home, your family, or even your workspace. Art invites dialogue, sparks inspiration, and holds meaning beyond its material value.
For young collectors especially, my advice is to explore, engage, and trust your instincts. If you find a piece that speaks to you, take the time to learn about the artists and understand their work, and if it truly resonates, bring it home. Art is something that stays with you, growing in significance over time.
Image Source- Galerie Geek Art
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