"The objects which surround us do not simply have utilitarian aspects, rather they serve as a kind of mirror which reflects our own image."
~ Ernest Dichter, Psychologist and Author of motivational research
"The Global Menu"
specialities on banknotes from around the world
14th - 16th April 2023
Exhibition Hall, World Trade Centre, Cuffe Parade, Mumbai, INDIA
"The Global Menu"
specialities on banknotes from around the world
Enjoying a meal is an integral part of our existence and we cannot imagine life without our daily bread. The history of documenting food and foodstuff on money has been a feature from ancient times and can still be savoured on banknotes from around the world. The relationship between food and money is inseparable. In the barter world, food was money and until this day, the term cash crops is used for all agro-based commodities that reap more than they sow.
The “Global Menu” on banknotes is a collection of different delectable delights showcased on currency notes from around the world. Different edible treats are consumed across the globe in sometimes same or sometimes unique recipes as part of the cultural tradition ingrained in the local produce. Do enjoy the offerings from the “Global Menu” on banknotes.
"Banking on World Heritage"
World Heritage on banknotes from the G20 nations
30th June - 9th July 2023
'Darshanam' Exhibition Halls, Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, New Delhi, INDIA
"Banking on World Heritage"
World heritage on G20 nation banknotes
The “Banking on World Heritage,” a first-of-its kind exhibition was held at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) along with the support of the Ministry of Culture, Govt. of India.
The idea behind the exhibition was two-fold. First, to recognise everyday objects like banknotes and appreciate their cultural value in shaping our lives. And second, to acknowledge the importance of our heritage from around the world and strive to make efforts of conscious tourism and conservation.
The exhibition was inaugurated by Honorable Union Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture, Smt Meenakshi Lekhi and Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary, IGNCA who shared, “this exhibition is the reality of what at first seemed undoable and unimaginable. It was envisioned with a perspective to bring forth the cultural heritage of the member nations of G20.”
The exhibition was well attended by ambassadors, officials and dignitaries. The IGNCA also organised curatorial sessions and art workshops throughout the week with students.
The essence being, every banknote showcases its cultural value irrespective of its economic value!
"Roots & Routes - Sharing Traditions"
Banking on World Heritage
9th September 2023 - 31st January 2024
National Gallery of Modern Art, Jaipur House, New Delhi, INDIA
"Roots & Routes"
'Banking on World Heritage' as part of 'Sharing Traditions'
The "Banking on World Heritage" presented banknotes as artworks. Celebrating the theme “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” under India’s G20 presidency for the year, the exhibition showcased larger replicas of banknotes from the member nations featuring UNESCO World Heritage sites. The proposed theme translates as “One Earth · One Family · One Future” perfectly fitting with UNESCO’s “Outstanding Universal Values of World Heritage.”
This presentation was even more special as it coincided with the celebration of India’s 75th year of independence along with UNESCO World Heritage Convention’s 50th year and was featured (the only independent curation) in the 'Roots and Routes' exhibition held as part of the culmination of India's G20 presidency in 2023.
Part of a larger exhibit, the idea of showcasing currency as canvases was presented for the first time globally as cultural artefacts contributing to our shared traditions.
"Beyond Face Value"
French banknote design from around the world
Travelling Exhibition - 2023 - 2024
Alliance Française Institutes in India
"Beyond Face Value"
French banknote design from around the world
French banknotes from around the world exhume art, romanticism and flair; a combination that results in these beautiful banknote artworks worth far beyond their face value. In France, the French francs have already been replaced by the Euro, almost twenty years ago. It is time to take a look at one of the most beautiful monetary galleries from around the world to appreciate the contribution of the real wealth and value of exchange.
Titled as ‘Beyond ‘Face Value - French banknote design from around the world’ is exactly what the exhibition offers. It highlights ‘Quintessentially French’ elements of French art and design that resonate across various genres and forms of national culture as can also be seen blatantly on its banknotes. This exhibition uniquely presents the French Republic in its continuing form circulating on the national sides of the French Euro Coins, the last peek into French nationalism on its money. France chose three designs to represent itself using strong symbols of the Republic that can be traced onto the earlier circulating notes of the nation as well as its overseas territories.
Conceptualised and curated as a travelling exhibition, it has been visited Pondicherry ( December 2023), Ahmedabad (February 2024) and New Delhi (April 2024). It is expected in Mumbai soon.
"Banknote Bling"
Metallic Security features on banknotes from around the world
8th June 2024
Shri Narayanji Shamji Mahanjiwadi, Matunga East, Mumbai, INDIA
"Banknote Bling"
Metallic security features on world banknotes
Counterfeiting is often referred to as money's evil twin. However, if it weren't for the ingenious counterfeiters, the world would be denied of seeing some of the most mind-boggling designs that adorn currency notes.
“Banknote Bling” presents the intimidating presence of metallic security features on banknotes from around the world. A whole arsenal of improved techniques like security threads, holographic foils and windows, Optical variable devices and inks have wrapped currency canvases.
It is indeed true that necessity is the mother of invention. We thus also have counterfeiters to thank for the bold, brash and beautiful metallic designs and effects that add a special shine to our money. Get dazzled by the “Banknote Bling!”