Amrita Bilimoria | Raw Hide Exhibition

In association with Roberta Moore Contemporary, fine art photographer Amrita Bilimoria, will be showing her work in London for the first time at Coya restaurant in Mayfair, in April 2016. Her show, entitled ‘Raw Hide’ is a striking collection of equine-influenced photography in limited edition fine art giclée prints, inspired by Amrita’s travels through Argentina, rural life in the campo, the horsemanship of the gauchos and her passion for the sport of polo. There will be 11 pieces of artwork on display from the Raw Hide collection.

A sport and a lifestyle, polo has two sides: what spectators witness and life behind the scenes; both on and off the field. Through her lens, Amrita looks to convey both in a unique and unflinching way. The glamour skill and finesse of the players and their sleek thoroughbreds is counterbalanced by the fierce competition between opposing teams. These emotions – the underlying aggression of the players and the tender relationship with their equine counterparts, are captured beautifully within Amrita’s work.

Amrita’s arresting pieces look to convey not only the grit and raw natural beauty of her subjects, but also the pride in their culture, work and artisan traditions. There is a distinct sensitivity, a respect and an understanding of a heritage and a sport that permeates this unique collection.

According to the photographer, “the Argentine campo has a special magic to it that you recognize instantly; a rhythm and energy that encourages, even forces you to be your most authentic self, to slow down and really see and feel life. I hope this translates into my work. To create raw, intense images, which are at the same time simple, compelling and honest. The imagery also looks to stimulate not only the visual sense, but also touch and smell – conjured up by thoughts of the smell of fresh leather tack, polished boots and the tactile feel of beautifully crafted handmade rawhide halters, ropes and reins of gaucho artisan workmanship.” Indeed, the photography display at Coya will be complimented by some of the finest Argentine leather polo memorabilia from iconic Argentine polo brand La Martina.

“If my artwork is able to reach out and provoke emotion and sentiment in my viewers, especially to those who are not naturally inclined to equine imagery, I consider that a great personal achievement. After working in the corporate world for over a decade, which in terms of personal expression is restrictive if you are to be successful – to me my photography is really freedom. To be able to open a window into another world, beyond the artistic aspect and show people what I see, altering their perspective and perhaps educating them in some way is fascinating to me.”

Amrita’s work focuses primarily on equine sport, culture and lifestyle around the world. The images are inspired and created by the big passions in her life: horses, travel, a desire to learn about local heritage and tradition and the amazing sports of racing and polo. Given her natural affinity with horses and being a polo player herself, she has a unique insight in to the game, capturing both the explosive power on the field, but also the hard work and emotion behind the thrill of the sport.

Given Amrita’s focus on culture, heritage and tradition in the work she portrays and Coya’s support of Latin American art and culture, the venue is a natural match and fitting setting for her stunning works.

EVENT DATES
Opening Reception in Pisco Bar: from 6.30pm, 19th April
Leather-inspired Master Class (leather goods, spirits, perfumes): 5.30pm-7.30pm, 17th May
Lunch with England Polo Team in conversation with the artist: 13th June

Attached to London’s first Peruvian restaurant and Pisco Bar, Coya Members’ Club