The National Gallery of Modern Art, Mumbai, is hosting an ongoing exhibition, Beyond Face Value: French Banknote Design from Around the World. This show features a unique collection of French banknotes, each one telling a story about the nation’s history, art, design, and culture.
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Marie Curie’s Legacy
One of the highlights of the exhibition is a banknote for 500 Francs issued in 1994 featuring the iconic scientist Marie Curie. Her husband and fellow scientist, Pierre Curie, is depicted standing behind her. The two shared the Nobel Prize for physics in 1903 and Marie went on to win her second Nobel for chemistry in 1911. Marie Curie’s legacy is celebrated not just in France but also around the world. Her pioneering work in radioactivity paved the way for numerous scientific breakthroughs. The banknote design, however, highlights her impact on the cultural and artistic landscape.
- The banknote design was created by a French artist, and it features a stylized image of Marie Curie, with her husband Pierre standing behind her.
- The colour scheme of the banknote represents radioactivity, which is a key aspect of Marie Curie’s research.
- The banknote design acknowledges a woman scientist, putting her at the forefront, a rare occurrence in the past.
Curating a Collection
Researcher-curator Rukmini Dahanukar, who put together the show, has a deep interest in French banknotes. Her fascination with this subject began while she was pursuing her Masters in Communications from California State University. She wrote her thesis on the launch of the Euro, which sparked her interest in the world of banknotes.
- Dahanukar’s interest in banknotes is not new; she started collecting them nearly two decades ago.
- She has amassed a collection of over 4,000 banknotes, which she curates with great care.
- Dahanukar’s collection covers a wide range of topics, including history, art, design, communication, propaganda, and representation.
The Art of Banknote Design
The exhibition showcases a range of banknote designs from around the world, each one telling a story about the nation’s history, art, and culture. Laurent Vergain, director of the Alliance Française de Bombay, highlights the significance of banknotes in reflecting a nation’s values and artistic expressions.
- Banknotes are not just tools of commerce; they are reflections of a nation’s values, artistic expressions, and cultural expressions.
- The exhibition provides an opportunity for history and art enthusiasts to explore a slice of Francophone culture and expression before the emergence of the Euros.
- Large-size banknote replicas are showcased alongside their real-size prints, offering a unique viewing experience.
A Unique Collection
The exhibition features a unique collection of French banknotes, which has travelled to various cities before arriving in Mumbai. Some real banknotes are on display, allowing visitors to see the intricate details of the designs.
- The exhibition is currently on display at the NGMA, Mumbai, until 24 April.
- The exhibition showcases large-size banknote replicas and real-size prints, offering a unique viewing experience.
- The exhibition provides a rare opportunity for visitors to see a collection of French banknotes up close.
Reflections on the Exhibition
The exhibition, Beyond Face Value: French Banknote Design from Around the World, provides a unique perspective on the world of banknotes. It highlights the artistic and cultural significance of banknotes, which are often overlooked. The exhibition is a testament to the power of banknotes in reflecting a nation’s identity and values. It is a rare opportunity for visitors to see a collection of French banknotes up close and appreciate the intricate details of the designs.
Visit the Exhibition
The exhibition is currently on display at the National Gallery of Modern Art, Mumbai, until 24 April. Visitors can view the exhibition from 10 am to 6 pm. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the world of French banknotes and appreciate their cultural and artistic significance.