Festival

Set against the skyline of a European town, the festival that gives this work its title is a gentle rebellion against the routines of modern life. The figure of Harlequin is revived and set loose to work his magic among children, musicians and animal-headed dancers from the jatra. Curiously, through, Harlequin remains melancholy and withdrawn, even though he stands at the heart of the festivity: this may be one of many versions of a self-portrait of the artist as one who is both, participant and witness, actor and observer in his own dramas of creation, communication and being.

- Ranjit Hoskote