Two exhibitions in Delhi, 'Paper and Play' at Gallery XXL and 'Pulp Bazaar' at Pulp Society, are opening in June 2026, inviting visitors to physically interact with art. 'Paper and Play', curated by Priyanshi Saxena, offers books, games, zines, toys, and artist books in a participatory, chill environment. 'Pulp Bazaar', the fourth edition by Pulp Society, is a playful summer exhibition featuring zines, prints, communal reading tables with South Asian art publications, and odd little objects, with workshops and surprises. Both events are free and emphasize tactile engagement over traditional fine art norms.
These exhibitions matter because they reflect a broader shift in Delhi's art scene away from the conventional 'do not touch' gallery model toward more accessible, community-oriented, and sensory experiences. By prioritizing play, social interaction, and hands-on exploration, they challenge the exclusivity of fine art and respond to a growing public desire for connection and participation. This trend, seen earlier at Kiran Nadar Museum of Art's zine exhibition and India Art Fair's installations, signals a democratization of art consumption in the city.