Draft:Cop Shiva

Cop Shiva  (born B. S. Shivaraju in 1979) is a contemporary Indian photographer and performer primarily located in Bannikuppe, near Bengaluru. He was chosen as a 2023–2024 Visiting Artist Fellow at Harvard University's Lakshmi Mittal and Family South Asia Institute.

About
Cop Shiva  embarked on his artistic journey after becoming involved with the alternative art collective known as 1.SHANTHIROAD STUDIO/GALLERY in Bangalore. Serving as the coordinator within 1.SHANTHIROAD STUDIO/GALLERY, he established connections with both local and international photographers and artists through which he developed his personal artistic endeavors.

In 2001, he became a part of the Karnataka Police Department, an experience that influenced his chosen artistic moniker. From 2010 onward, his exclusive focus has been on his art, which manifests through photography and performance art. His creations have a platform through Gallery Sumukha in Bangalore and Art Heritage Gallery in New Delhi.

Practice
Cop Shiva's photographic endeavors center on documenting the multifaceted nature of both rural and urban India. His practice frequently focuses on portraiture and is characterized by a keen interest in the concept of masquerade and the various roles individuals assume within public and private spheres. Within his body of work, one finds intimate portrayals of urban migrants, individuals with alternative sexual orientations, street performers, and other inhabitants existing at the intersection of the rapid urbanization of India and the deep-set rural community. Through his art, he seeks to ennoble the individuals who dwell on society's periphery while ensuring his photos metaphorically embody the essence of contemporary times.

Biography
Cop Shiva's achievements encompass being awarded the 2023-2024 Visiting Artist Fellowship at Harvard University's Lakshmi Mittal and Family South Asia Institute in the United States, the prestigious Sovereign Asian Art Public Award in 2023., and a grant from the Swedish Art Council in 2017.In 2018, he emerged as a finalist for the esteemed Harvard University Peabody Museum Robert Gardner Fellowship of Photography, established under the aegis of the Prohelvetia-Switzerland initiative. His artistic creations hold a place of pride within private collections and international museums.