Mystik River Gallery welcomes Indian exhibition Tree of Life

Mystik River Gallery at Southgate Melbourne has unveiled Tree of Life, a striking new exhibition by acclaimed Indian artist K.G. Narendrababu, on display until November 2.

Launched on August 30, the exhibition invites Melbourne audiences into the richly symbolic world of one of South India’s leading contemporary artists. Known for blending traditional narratives and folk motifs with vivid modern visual language, Narendrababu has won numerous accolades, including the 48^th National Academy Award.

At the heart of the show is the image of the tree – a universal symbol of life, connection and growth. In Narendrababu’s hands, the motif becomes both a personal and cultural axis, drawing on Hindu myths and folklore to explore humanity’s relationship with nature and time. His colourful Aari embroideries, acrylic paintings and graphic works transform the gallery into a dreamscape of myth and memory.

Gallery director Lolita Romanoff said the exhibition reflected Mystik River’s mission to present art forms that were both transformational and rooted in tradition.

“Tree of Life is a symbol found across many cultures, but in K.G. Narendrababu’s interpretation it is infused with the rich symbolism of Indian folklore,” she said. 

Curator Elena Nekliudova described the show as “a journey through Indian myth and enchanted dreams”, adding that each piece serves as a portal into the artist’s fantastical world.

What makes the exhibition particularly special for Mystik River is Narendrababu’s presence in Melbourne during its opening weeks – his first visit to Australia. To mark the occasion, the gallery has programmed a series of interactive events, including Meet the Artist sessions and a Spontaneous Expression Workshop.

“These are rare opportunities for our audience to connect with the artist in person, explore his techniques, and gain deeper insight into his creative process,” Ms Romanoff said.

Since its opening, Mystik River has established itself as a Southbank destination for cultural exchange, showcasing international artists whose work bridges tradition and contemporary practice. Romanoff believes Tree of Life embodies this ethos.

“Cultural exchange is rooted in curiosity and appreciation for one another,” she said. “Exhibitions like this remind us that while every culture is unique, we are united by universal questions – how we express care, love or friendship. Art becomes a window for understanding these connections in profound ways.”

Mystik River’s vision is to build a community of “like-minded hearts”, united through art and creativity. With Tree of Life, the gallery continues that journey, inviting visitors to pause, reflect and find inspiration in Narendrababu’s richly imaginative works.

As Nekliudova put it: “we hope each visitor will find something for themselves here – for some it will awaken long-forgotten images, and for others it will open something completely new and inspiring.”

Tree of Life runs at Mystik River Gallery, 3 Southgate Avenue, Southbank, until November 2, 2025. •