The cultural heart of Kolkata is beating a little faster this season. As the city embraces the heat, the art world is finding cool refuge and deep inspiration at the Centre of International Modern Art (CIMA). The annual Summer Show is currently underway, offering a profound look into the evolving landscape of Indian Contemporary Art.

At Pragati Arts, we have spent over two decades championing the dialogue between tradition and modernity, and this year’s exhibition at CIMA perfectly mirrors that mission.

A Maze of Intertwined Narratives

This year’s Summer Show is far from a standard gallery display. It brings together selected works from artists across various Indian regions, creating a diverse tapestry of regional styles and global perspectives.

The 2026 focus is particularly striking, delving into:

• Contemporary Social Issues: Artists are using their practice to confront the complexities of modern life.
• Hindu Concepts: The exploration of ancient philosophical and religious themes provides a spiritual backbone to the contemporary works.
• The Surreal vs. The Real: The result is an unexpected mixture that pulls viewers into a maze of narratives where the lines between reality and imagination blur.

Pragati Arts: 25 Years of Artistic Excellence

As we celebrate these external exhibitions, we also reflect on our own journey in this vibrant city. Established in 2000, Pragati Arts has grown into a premier venue for contemporary arts in India.

Our commitment to the arts goes beyond just hanging paintings on a wall:

• A Legacy of Curation: We have organized over a hundred exhibitions to date, providing a platform for both emerging and master artists.
• Global Collaborations: Our reach extends beyond Kolkata through partnerships with international museums, funding agencies, and prestigious educational institutions.
• Intellectual Discourse: We believe in the “why” behind the “what.” Pragati Arts regularly hosts seminars featuring well-known scholars, directors, performers, and artists to foster a deeper understanding of the creative process.

Join the Conversation

Kolkata remains the undisputed capital of Indian Contemporary Art. Whether you are visiting the Summer Show at CIMA or stopping by our gallery, we invite you to immerse yourself in the “maze of narratives” that define our time.

Are you planning to visit the Summer Show this week? Leave a comment below and tell us which artist’s work resonated with you the most!