Remembering Hanif Kureshi
A Pioneer of Street Art in India
Hanif Kureshi, a trailblazer in Indian street art, passed away recently at the age of 41 after a brave battle with cancer. His innovative contributions, particularly through St+art India, have significantly transformed urban landscapes across the country. This article highlights Kureshi’s life, artistic journey, and lasting impact on making art accessible to all.
Born into a world where art was often reserved for galleries, Kureshi sought to democratize it from an early age. He graduated from MS University in Baroda and initially worked in advertising before discovering his passion for sign-board painting and hand-lettering. This led him to explore local artistry, commissioning sign painters to create unique alphabets and preserving a fading art form.
In 2013, Hanif co-founded St+art India with the mission to bring art out of galleries and into public spaces. He believed that art should be accessible to everyone, transforming urban environments into vibrant canvases. St+art India organized festivals and projects across cities like Mumbai, Chennai, and Hyderabad, fostering community engagement and dialogue around public art.
Kureshi was not only an organizer but also an active participant in many projects. His work often explored themes of identity and social commentary. Notable collaborations included a mural in Lodhi Colony, Delhi, featuring the words “Yaha” (Here) and “Must” (This must be the place), prompting viewers to reflect on their surroundings.
His installations were innovative; in 2018, he created a sensory experience at the Sassoon Dock Art Project that engaged memory through typography and smell. Earlier this year, he painted in Braille at a school for visually impaired students in Rajasthan, exemplifying his belief in inclusivity within art.
Kureshi’s influence extended internationally, with exhibitions at prestigious venues like the London Design Biennale and the Venice Biennale. His solo exhibition at Wildstyle Gallery in Sweden showcased his evolution as an artist committed to pushing boundaries.
Hanif Kureshi’s legacy is one of transformation—of urban spaces and perceptions of public art. By legitimizing street art as a medium of expression, he inspired countless artists to explore this form. His initiatives revitalized neighborhoods while sparking conversations about culture and community engagement.
Kureshi played a pivotal role in changing attitudes toward street art in India. Once dismissed as vandalism, it is now recognized as a powerful tool for social change. His efforts established a vibrant community of street artists who continue to challenge norms.
The passing of Hanif Kureshi is a profound loss for the Indian art community. His vision for accessible public art has inspired a new generation dedicated to continuing his legacy. As we reflect on his contributions, we recognize the importance of making art available to everyone—not just as spectators but as active participants in shaping their environments. Kureshi’s journey underscores the power of art to transcend boundaries and catalyze change within communities. While he may no longer be with us physically, his spirit lives on through the vibrant streets he transformed into canvases for expression and dialogue. In celebrating his life and work, we honor Hanif Kureshi by advocating for public art that speaks to all people.