tota project

This independent exhibition was curated by Vancouver-based designer, Mustaali Raj, and fine artist, Minahil Bukhari. The duo travelled through both countries (India and Pakistan) to execute this project. Mustaali’s Indian ancestry and Minahil’s Pakistani heritage adds a deeper personal connection to the narrative.

Originally part of the same nation, India and Pakistan were torn into two entities following the departure of the British. At the time of Partition in 1947, histories and identities shared over a millennium were suddenly torn apart across religious lines as more than ten million people were forced to migrate. With time, the two countries developed their individual flavours, yet the ties of old persist in every facet of society. Despite this division, the two countries share not only a common heritage, but also a shared identity. Importantly, in spite of the violent history, people on both sides of the border display a remarkable curiosity and goodwill towards their neighbour. Tota Project aims to nurture this further, bringing people from both countries together through creative connections.

The summer of 2018 was the first time Minahil and Mustaali visited each other’s homeland (India and Pakistan), curious to experience the subtleties of the region’s conjoined relationship. While travelling through both countries, they invited friends, family, and strangers alike, to recreate a parrot on a blank postcard. The Rose-Ringed Parakeet (Mittu / Tota) is an iconic bird found across the South Asian subcontinent, and now introduced into many other parts of the world. The Tota is a vibrant, friendly and curious bird with strong ties to the region's artwork and literature. The green and red colours are a key identifiable feature of the bird.

The result of this travelling art project was a diverse set of parrots representing each participant's individuality while retaining a collective sense of belonging - a postcard flock. The works come together like a murmuration, seeing no boundaries, migrating from one region to another freely carrying a message of peace. This notion extends out to the wider South Asian diaspora as well.

The exhibition showcases artworks generated across both countries, as well as invites local and International participants connected to the greater South Asian region to add their own voice into the conversation. The intent is for this project to evolve into a travelling exhibition that continues to grow as it moves from one city to another — carrying a message of unity and camaraderie.