Mrinalini Mukherjee was an Indian sculptor. She is the only daughter of prolific artists Benode Behari Mukherjee and Leela Mukherjee. Her career spanned four decades. Her work has been displayed in Amsterdam, London, New York, and Oxford to name a few. She passed away aged 65.
Mrinalini Mukherjee tried a new approach, using dyed and woven hemp fibres to craft sculptures. One may detect the effigies or the themes of her oeuvre but will be perplexed by the sheer subtext. She also ‘knotted’ extensively, applying the ancient Islamic weaving technique, macramé.
Mrinalini Mukherjee’s ‘Deities’ sculptures remind us of a deity's idol. The majestic hues of black, purple, and turquoise, almost look like royal garments. The plaited and knotted ropes indicate her hard work. Despite presenting recognizable iconographies through this collection, it has undertones of personal narratives.
Mrinalini Mukherjee’s ‘Palm Scapes’ series is a succinct representation of organic life and their growth. The bronze sculptures are steered into vivid shapes defying the laws of physics. They look almost monstrous yet have an innate earthly beauty to them.