Madison Reporter

The Chazen Museum of Art is set to host the 2025 Panczenko MFA Prize Exhibition, featuring Anamika Singh's work from April 7 to July 13. Singh, a current MFA candidate at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, is the recipient of this year's Russell and Paula Panczenko MFA Prize.

Singh's exhibition, titled "Corpus," explores themes through installation, sculpture, photography, and film. Her work delves into familial narratives from India and broader histories that cross geopolitical lines. The exhibition investigates how archaeology has been used in nationalism and control while examining urban destruction linked with architectural construction. Singh’s experiences in India and the United States have influenced her exploration of change and loss amid development.

A central piece of the exhibition is Singh's film "Sheetla," which examines Jan Morcha's role in reporting on the controversial desecration of Babri Masjid in Ayodhya, Faizabad in 1992. The film honors her grand uncle Sheetla Singh who was an influential editor for Jan Morcha for five decades.

“Being born and raised in the Indian subcontinent and the US deeply influenced my questions around power, violence and history,” said Singh. She emphasizes that her work seeks to reanimate history within the present rather than view it as merely past events.

The exhibition marks three years of research-based artistic practice by Singh across both India and the United States. It merges two distinct creative methods: one rooted in historical research and another embracing studio experimentation with materials like concrete and stainless steel. Visitors are invited to reflect on whether they are witnessing creation or destruction within these works.

“My work explores ideas of construction and destruction,” noted Singh. She hopes visitors will consider what it means to navigate through complex histories symbolized by debris.

Singh’s art challenges dominant systems while encouraging dialogue about issues such as colonialism and nationalist violence. “Art can really mark untapped spaces of solidarity, collaboration and reckoning,” she added.

The Panczenko MFA Prize provides significant professional development opportunities for UW–Madison students by offering exposure to various aspects of bringing an exhibition to life at Chazen Museum galleries. “The arts have been eroded...this kind of opportunity is monumental,” expressed Singh.

Amy Gilman from UW–Madison highlighted how crucial this prize is for bridging academic study with broader artistic careers: “It fosters confidence...and empowers them to launch successful impactful careers.”

Supported by funds from Russell & Paula Panczenko Fund for Excellence Visual Arts; this year’s juror was Lumi Tan based out New York City chosen Anamika’s artwork among others submitted during competition process ensuring comprehensive representation talent emerging artists’ scene today!

Anamika plans begin doctoral research Department Art Archaeology Princeton University fall next year continuing journey exploring intersections culture heritage throughout global landscape beyond!