Emerald Leaf & Golden Fibre

In 'Emerald Leaf & Golden Fibre', artist and interdisciplinary researcher Sonia Mehra Chawla presents a groundbreaking body of work resulting from multi-year field research across the mangrove wetlands and coastal deltaic ecosystems of eastern India. Combining fine art printmaking, cyanotypes, microscopy, and archival jute fibres, Chawla bridges the realms of scientific inquiry and ecological poetics.

The exhibition reflects on the historical colonial trade of Bengal jute alongside the critical conservation of coastal mangroves—nature’s frontline defense against storm surges and sea-level rise. By transforming living microorganisms, plant spores, and botanical fibres into mesmerizing visual artifacts, Chawla creates a powerful testament to bio-resilience and ecological interdependence.