Cop Shiva

We create immersive art experiences and promote cultural dialogue through exhibitions and events

This is a photo-performance from my series 'No Longer A Memory', where my mother and I recreate childhood fantasies. For me, curation is about bringing these personal, playful, and powerful stories to life for everyone to experience.

An immersive installation from Archana Hande's 'WEAVING LIGHT'. I believe in transforming spaces. Here, we used light and shadow projected through traditional jacquard loom punch cards to create a magical, shifting landscape that tells a story of craft and technology.

An interactive moment from Clare Arni's 'Southern Stars' exhibition. I love creating shows where visitors are not just viewers but participants. Here, guests could dress up in costumes and become part of a photo studio setup, making their own memories within the exhibition.

Our booth at the Seattle Art Fair, showcasing a curated selection of South Asian artists. Taking these stories to a global stage is a crucial part of my work, connecting diverse artists with new audiences and creating a dialogue across borders.

A view of the Jehangir Sabavala exhibition of limited edition serigraphs. My curation also embraces the quiet power of master artists. It's about creating a serene, focused environment that allows the depth and legacy of an artist's work to speak for itself.

A still from Smitha Cariappa's live art performance, 'Seeing is not the same as Looking'. I work with artists across all mediums, including time-based and performance art. These events challenge the traditional gallery format and offer a unique, fleeting experience.

Here I am with curator Joshua Muyiwa during the setup for 'No Longer A Memory'. The curatorial process is a deep collaboration. It involves countless conversations and hands-on work to ensure the artist's vision is realized in the space.

Art Exhibitions and Curation

Exhibitions at gallery in Wilson Garden and venues across Bengaluru

I curate art shows by working directly with artists to create immersive exhibitions, transforming gallery spaces and hosting interactive tours and talks so visitors can engage with the art and the artists.

60K-3L

per exhibition

This is a photo-performance from Cop Shiva's series 'No Longer A Memory', created with his mother, Gowramma. They playfully recreate childhood fantasies, transforming memory into a vibrant, theatrical performance that explores identity and love.

Arunkumar H. G.'s monumental sculpture 'Impinged II', crafted from recycled paper pulp, now resides at Terminal 2 of Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru. This acquisition showcases our commitment to placing significant contemporary Indian art in major public spaces.

A view of our booth at the Seattle Art Fair 2025. Participating in international art fairs allows me to bring the powerful voices of South Asian artists to a global audience and connect with collectors from around the world.

'The Stranger I', a limited edition serigraph by the master modernist Jehangir Sabavala. Representing such iconic artists is central to my mission of showcasing the full spectrum of Indian art history, from modern pioneers to contemporary innovators.

This untitled textile work is a collaboration between artist Anitha N Reddy and Husenbi Jamadar of the Siddi Quilters. Hand-stitched from upcycled cotton, these quilts are powerful works of art, rich with the memory, labor, and heritage of the Siddi community.

'Triumphant Skywalker (No Black Tongue)', a bronze sculpture by Tsherin Sherpa. This piece playfully distorts Himalayan iconography to explore themes of cultural identity, displacement, and hybridity in the modern world.

Artist Cop Shiva stands beside his work at the preview of his solo exhibition, 'No Longer A Memory'. My role is not just to sell art, but to support and develop the careers of the artists I represent, helping them bring their vision to life.

Visitors engage in conversation during the Vidya Bhushan exhibition. My gallery is a space for dialogue and connection, where people can immerse themselves in art and share in the experience.

Art Sales and Artist Representation

Ships across India; Visit gallery at Wilson Garden, Bengaluru

I help you discover and buy contemporary South Asian art while supporting artists in building their careers.

20K-3L

per artwork

Meet your expert

Cop Shiva

My Story

Most folks call me Cop Shiva, and yeah, that name just stuck. Was a cop in Bangalore once, before that a schoolteacher. Always been curious about people, their stories, all the roles we play. My camera? That’s my real window now. Moved back to my village, built a house for Amma, Gowramma. Funny thing, not a single photo of us together. So, we started playing dress-up again, making memories real – that’s how 'No Longer A Memory' happened. Me and Amma, back to our old games.

My Work

Photo-Performance & Theatrical Portraits - I create story-driven series, mixing photo-performance art and theatrical family portraits inspired by real memories.

Imaginative, Scene-Building Shoots - My shoots feel like theatre – props, costumes, household things. We build worlds, not just click photos.

Exploring Identity & Memory - My work looks at identity, masquerade, rural life, and childhood. Playful, colourful, but always asking deeper questions.

Real People, Real Stories - No need to be a model. I love working with anyone keen to create memory-driven photo series that feel personal.

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Cop Shiva