Sadaf Padder, a Brooklyn-based independent curator and art advisor, is known for her profound focus on under-recognized contemporary art movements, especially within the South Asian and Caribbean diasporas. Her curatorial approach is deeply rooted in connecting communities and unraveling narratives through themes like futurism, climate change, and neo-mythology. With exhibits spanning across cities like Philadelphia, Los Angeles, and Martha’s Vineyard, Padder’s work is an ongoing conversation about culture, identity, and environmental consciousness. Her dedication to amplifying BIPOC voices in the arts has garnered mentions in influential platforms such as LA Weekly, Hyperallergic, and ARTnews, with notable acquisitions by institutions like the Baltimore Museum of Art and RISD Museum.
In her latest exhibition, Secrets of the Sun, Padder turns to the mystical teachings of the 12th-century spiritual text The Conference of the Birds by Farid ud-Din Attar, offering a fresh take on timeless human struggles and enlightenment. Through the artistic lens of Chitra Ganesh, Bishakh Som, Saba Taj, and Maede Tafvizi, the exhibition delves into complex themes of self-discovery, ecological intimacy, and community building, all while challenging societal norms. This contemporary interpretation of Attar’s epic poem presents parables that feel especially resonant today, exploring the tension between autonomy and the geopolitical influence of religion.
The works on display highlight the universal yearning for enlightenment, alluding to the personal and collective journey to overcome greed, anger, envy, and ego. In doing so, Secrets of the Sun invites its audience to reflect on their own inner landscapes, posing questions about freedom, identity, and the human condition against the backdrop of modern-day sociopolitical challenges.
Padder’s thoughtful curation not only bridges the past with the present but also amplifies a dialogue that resonates globally, particularly among artists, curators, and creatives navigating their roles in today’s world.
Images by Shaina Nyman.
Curated by Sadaf Padder.
Show on view till 26th October 2024, at Twelve Gates Arts, 106 N 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106, United States.
