DREAMERS | सपने देखने वाले by Gurjeet Singh
Gurjeet Singh presents a body of work, in collaboration with Jaipur Rugs, on show now until 7 June 2025 at the Gallery Chemould, Prescott Road, Mumbai, India. The work exhibited is a tribute to the lives of artisans and residents of Jaipur, capturing the realities of their lives and the emotions that Gurjeet resonated with most deeply - yearning, freedom, ambition, and a desire for self-expression. Drawing from personal conversations, shared meals, and moments of quiet reflection, Gurjeet witnessed the often unspoken undercurrents that flow through the artisans’ daily lives.
Portrait of the artist, Gurjeet Singh, at the studio space.
Jaipur Rugs, founded in 1978 by NK Chaudhary, has long been dedicated to preserving India’s rich heritage of rug-making, a tradition dating back to the era of Emperor Akbar in the 1500s. From its beginnings with just two looms, Jaipur Rugs has grown into a vibrant network of over 40,000 artisans, creating a social enterprise where traditional craftsmanship meets contemporary design. Gurjeet’s collaboration with these artisans reflects this deep-rooted history, with each rug and sculpture telling not only a personal story but also echoing a centuries-old craft. The artisans’ dedication and skill infuse each piece with a quiet dignity and depth that speaks volumes about their lived experiences.
View of DREAMERS | सपने देखने वाले at Chemould Gallery Prescott Road, Mumbai, India.
Throughout his career, Gurjeet has consistently explored themes of identity, queerness, and societal pressures, and this collaboration continues that exploration within the patriarchal and tradition-bound context of the artisans’ world. The artisans who collaborated on this collection - Godhi, Boogli, Gajanand, Pinki, Pushpa, Jahir, Nishrat, and Rais - brought their own stories and experiences to each piece, working closely with Gurjeet on everything from design choices to colour palettes. The process was not merely about translating ideas into tangible objects; it was a dialogue and an exchange of perspectives - a weaving together of different lives and histories.
Gurjeet Singh, Bahu Mukhiya (Detail), 2025.
Using repurposed silk saris, old yarn salvaged from fire-damaged rugs, and traditional hand-knotting techniques, the artisans have infused the collection with vivid colours, intricate motifs, and dynamic forms. The resulting exhibition comprises ten handwoven carpets, two large sculptures crafted from up-cycled fabric, and a series of drawings, each offering a unique perspective on the relationship between tradition and personal expression.
Gurjeet Singh, I want to go home, 2025
At its heart, this exhibition invites us to look beyond the surface of craft, to recognise the people who bring it to life, and to reflect on the universal longing for recognition and freedom. Through this collaboration, Gurjeet and the artisans of Jaipur Rugs have created a space where personal narratives and shared histories are intertwined - each rug and sculpture a quiet, compelling testament to resilience, creativity, and the human need to be seen. There is a palpable intimacy in these works, a sense of hands-on involvement that invites the viewer to come closer, to lean in, and to listen.
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Further Information:
On show until 7 June 2025 at the Chemould Prescott Road Gallery, Mumbai, India.
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Image Credits:
Lead Image: Gurjeet Singh, The Portraits of Boogli and her Mother, 2025. Wool Yarn, Cotton Yarn, Bamboo Silk Yarn.
All other images as credited in image captions. Cortesy of Gurjeet Singh and Chemould Gallery.