Rapture (n.) – A state of intense joy, ecstasy, and transcendence. A moment of complete immersion, where emotion and experience become one.
Rapture presents a celebration of covetable, collectable works of art from not only groundbreaking South Asian artists but also beacons of the artistic community—visionaries whose bold, fearless creativity is a reminder that art, at its most powerful, is a force of beautifully disruptive positive energy.
These works are testaments to the idea that artistic expression is not just a form of resistance or reflection, but a catalyst for joyful upheaval. Rapture ignites a new chapter where artists fully embrace their power, their joy, and their limitless creative expression. Through vibrant visuals and dynamic storytelling, Rapture invites us to transcend limitations and step into a world of uninhibited artistic euphoria.
EXHIBITING ARTISTS: The exhibition features one to two works by these established voices and visual van guards. The works are available (print to order) in an open edition ranging from £50 – £80 to create a democratic opportunity to collect fine art reminiscent of posters you’d hang in your bedroom.
Babbu The Painter, Ryan Lanji, Kully Rehal, Sarah Maple, Girth Of Venus, Helena Theodore, Kazim Rashid, Kushiaania, Jatinder Creates & Kaajel Jayantilal Patel
Curated by Ryan Lanji
RAPTURE – 27th April 2025 Camden Open Air Gallery
About
Ryan Lanji is a cultural curator, creative director, and TV personality, renowned for his boundary-pushing
approach to art, fashion, and creative expression. Winner of Netflix’s The Big Flower Fight, Ryan has
since captivated audiences with his dynamic presence including his recent appearance on BBC THREE’s
Big Proud Party Agency and is the cursor of Drag Race UK’s Finale parties. A trailblazer in the art world
and curator at heart, he has been the brainchild behind groundbreaking exhibitions and immersive
experiences that spotlight Beauty, Fashion, South Asian artists and underrepresented voices in the
LGBTQIA+ community.
In 2020, Lanji curated Perspectives of Courage, an exhibition that brought together artists whose work
embodied resilience and artistic bravery. Set to open on March 11, 2020—the same day the UK entered its first lockdown—the exhibition became an unseen symbol of courage in uncertain times. Now, five
years later, he reimagines this narrative with Rapture—a celebration of artistic liberation, bold expression,
and the electrifying energy of cultural transformation.
Beyond the gallery, Lanji is best known as the creator of HUNGAMA, the groundbreaking queer Bollywood club night that has evolved into a global movement at the intersection of art, nightlife, and
South Asian identity. HUNGAMA (??????) translates to chaos, celebration, and joyful commotion—an ethos
that pulses through Rapture, where artists embrace their power and push creative boundaries without
restraint.
Through his curatorial vision, Lanji continues to shape spaces where art, culture, and community converge, proving that creativity is not just about expression—it is a force for joy, revolution, and transformation.
Camden Open Air Gallery uses the art’s to breathe life into urban environments. While many talented
artists remain undiscovered, we’re dedicated to spotlighting their brilliance. COAG stands as a catalyst for emerging creatives, rejuvenating spaces and unveiling their true character. While our journey began in Camden, our vision spans throughout London. Using Camden Town as our proving ground. Our goal is to scout, mentor, and incubate the next wave of creatives, from artists to designers, entrepreneurs to
musicians, helping to break down the barriers they face to create the next generation of high street
brands. Address: 216 Camden High St, London NW1 8QR
