A powerful new exhibition exploring the historic and cultural links between the Indian sub-continent and Wales is taking centre stage at Glynn Vivian Art Gallery over the coming months.
Opening on May 23, Tigers & Dragons features over 100 stunning artworks from around 70 artists based in Wales, England, India, and Pakistan.
These include paintings, photographs, textiles, sculpture, performance art and digital installations – many of them on loan from major collections across the UK.
The exhibition traces the social and political complexities of the India-Wales relationship, highlighting Imperial connections through war, trade, and language.
At the heart of the exhibition is a fascinating question: what do India and Wales, two nations shaped by British imperialism, share in their search for identity?
Elliott King, Cabinet Member for Culture and Equalities, said: “This exhibition gives Swansea residents a chance to explore their own heritage in new and exciting ways.
“By looking at how India and Wales have both been shaped by empire, Tigers & Dragons helps us think about who we are today, and where we come from. It’s a meaningful show for anyone interested in culture, identity and community.”
He said: “Swansea has a proud tradition of welcoming and celebrating diversity in our communities. We are a City of Sanctuary and Wales’ first Human Rights City.
“I encourage everyone to visit this remarkable exhibition. It’s a wonderful opportunity to learn about our shared histories and celebrate the diverse cultural heritage that makes Swansea such a vibrant place. It’s about what we’ve inherited – and how we move forward together.”
Karen MacKinnon, Curator of Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, said: “This extraordinary exhibition brings together artists from South Asia and Wales to explore an intersection from which we can examine our shared pasts and futures.
“Tigers & Dragons explores how cultures clash and converse, and where ideologies coexist, merge, and separate.”
Curated by Katy Freer from Glynn Vivian and Dr Zehra Jumabhoy from the University of Bristol, the exhibition brings together historic and contemporary pieces – including new works commissioned specially for the show.
Swansea-based artists have also been closely involved. Local arts group Threads collaborated with international artist Adeela Suleman from Karachi, Pakistan, to create a new textile piece reflecting their shared creative journey.
Supported by the Weston Loan Programme with Art Fund, and the Arts Council of Wales, the exhibition runs alongside a packed programme of talks, workshops and performances – including a live event with renowned artist Nikhil Chopra on Friday 23 May, commissioned by CELF National contemporary art gallery for Wales.
