Two Aussie artists to live and work in Varanasi

Varanasi is set to welcome two Australian artists who will make the city their home this year as part of art residencies.
Under Melbourne University's AsiaLink initiative, the artists Arlene de Souza and Kate Blackmore will both take residence this year at the Kriti Gallery and Residency in Varanasi, a statement said here today.
"TextaQueen and Blackmore are two exciting Australian artists who have won international recognition for their work, and I'm delighted they will both be travelling to India this year as AsiaLink Arts Residents," Australia's acting High Commissioner Bernard Philip said in a statement.
He stated that it was an invaluable opportunity to encourage cultural collaboration between some of Australia's and India's leading-edge talents.

"These residencies will give both artists the opportunity to discover professional development opportunities in India and share their knowledge and networks with local artists and curators," Philip said.
The acting High Commissioner said cultural engagement is a key priority for both the Australian and Indian Governments.
Souza, who is also known as TextaQueen, whose visual works which explore questions of gender, identity and sexuality, would explore her Goan heritage through a series of self-portraits set in hybrid Australian-Indian landscapes.
Meanwhile, Blackmore, a Sydney-based artist who works across video, installation and performance will create a video installation in collaboration with members of activist group 'Gulabi Gang', which fights domestic violence.