Esteemed mixed media artist, Shalini Singh announces her solo exhibition, delving into the multifaceted concept of “JOY” as a deep and enduring state of being.
The collection moves beyond fleeting happiness, exploring joy as a cultivated presence rooted in inner peace, resilience, mindfulness and emotional clarity.
Inspired by celestial and cosmic elements, ancient mythology, symbols and the monumental works of past civilizations, Singh’s unique artistic approach incorporates a diverse range of materials, including eye dust, sharpies, nail polish, glitter glue, aerosol spray paints, chalk pastels, crayon, and acrylic paint. This innovative blend results in visually exciting and thought-provoking compositions that invite viewers to witness transformation and healing.
With 28 years of teaching experience at Diego Martin Central Secondary School and as a part-time lecturer at The University of the West Indies (The UWI) and the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT), Singh brings a rich academic background to her artistic practice. A graduate of Bishop Anstey High School with multiple degrees from The UWI, Shalini has an extensive exhibition history both locally and internationally.
Her works have garnered international recognition, having been displayed in New York, Colombia, Denmark, Guyana, Barbados, Miami, and Trinidad and Tobago. Her art is characterised by its rich textures, vibrant colours and exploration of profound themes inspired by history, mythology and the human experience. This is Singh’s 11th solo exhibition.
This latest collection, “JOY,” presents visual narratives of stillness, strength in adversity and the quiet persistence of hope. Each piece serves as a meditative reflection, capturing the essence of joy not as an escape from life’s difficulties, but as a powerful response to them. Through expressive use of form, colour, scale, and texture, Singh’s work encourages an inward gaze, prompting viewers to consider whether joy can be found independently of circumstance – a quiet, steady presence that can exist even in stillness or solitude.
The exhibition features evocative titles such as “Celebration: Lion Dance,” symbolizing optimism and good luck; “Change: Embrace It,” highlighting growth through adaptation; “Grief: Life Goes On,” emphasising resilience in the face of loss; and “Home is Where the Heart Resides,” underscoring the importance of sanctuary. Other pieces explore themes of nature (“Toucan,” “Tropical Arrangement”), sensory experiences (“If Joy Were a Colour: Mellow, Yellow Orchids,” “Circles in the Sand,” “Torrential Movements,” “If Music Is the Food of Love… Play On”) and introspective concepts (“You Manifest,” “Imagination: No Limits,” “Soulful Journey,” and “The Masks We Wear”).
“This collection is an exploration of joy as a fundamental aspect of our being, something that can be nurtured and discovered within ourselves, regardless of external circumstances,” says Singh. “Through these visual stories, I hope to invite viewers to reflect on their own emotional and spiritual landscapes and to recognise the quiet strength and enduring presence of joy in their lives.”
The Exhibition will be held at Arnim’s Art Galleria, #27 Tragarete Road, Port of Spain.
Opening night on May 2, from
6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
The Gallery’s opening hours are
9 a.m. – 6 p.m. on weekdays.
9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays.
Closing day on May 15, from
9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Entry free of charge.
