This is a painting I created based on an interaction I had during my trip to India while I was visiting my ancestral village. These women as they set out to fields from the village square. Their vibrant sarees billowed in the morning breeze, forming a colorful tapestry against the backdrop of the rural landscape. They set out on their journey with a sense of purpose that ran more profound than the roots of the crops they cultivated.
Walking along dusty, winding paths, they carried with them the hopes of their families and the legacy of their ancestors. The weight of the farm tools and baskets of seeds was matched only by their determination. I wanted to portray how they were not just going to trill the soil; they were sowing the seeds of Women's empowerment and financial independence.
The Cycle
Medium: Colored pencils and Acrylic on paper
Description :
During a reflective period in my life, I created this work composed of my current self delicately applying a bindi to the younger version of myself. With this, I created a profound reflection on the interplay between time, identity, and cultural heritage. The act of adorning myself with this sacred symbol of South Asian culture encapsulates the nurturing of oneself and the contemplation of self-discovery. My intent was not only to reflect upon my personal journey but also to offer a canvas for others to see themselves through me.
All Eyes Off Me
Medium: Acrylic on Canvas
Description:
This artwork intricately depicts a poignant scene: a young girl finds herself immersed in a pool of her own tears, all the while the collective gaze of society remains largely unaware of her emotional turmoil. The primary purpose behind this creation is to serve as a compelling medium to shed light on a disquieting and prevalent trend within the South Asian community, which is the tendency to downplay discussions surrounding mental health issues.
The process behind this artwork is a story in itself, reflecting the careful thought and attention to detail that brought this concept to life. It began with a thoughtful, self-generated photo reference for the central character. This step was instrumental in capturing the essence and meticulous crafting of the final piece.
In essence, this artwork not only stands as a powerful visual statement, a testament to the journey of creating it but also conveys a deep-seated message about the critical need to address mental health concerns.
Blue Ridge Beauty
Medium: Oil Paint on Canvas
Description: Residing in a state marked by the transition of four distinct seasons is a privilege that I, as an artist, deeply appreciate. This enduring connection to my natural surroundings has granted me a priceless opportunity to witness the ever-changing beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. A profound and lasting bond forms during the autumn, when nature weaves a rich tapestry of vibrant autumnal shades.
Adding to this captivating backdrop is the tranquil yet imposing Slow Peak Mountains, which add depth and grandeur to the enchanting scenery. They stand as a testament to the enduring magnificence of these majestic mountain peaks. It's within this enchanting setting that I've consistently discovered my wellspring of inspiration.
This source of inspiration has been the driving force behind many of my artistic endeavors, enabling me to capture the grandeur of these landscapes on canvas using oil paints.
Battle of Cultures
Medium: Colored Pencils and Acrylic on paper
Description:
I crafted this work using the signature bells of the classical Indian dance form Bharatanatyam and the pointe shoes of the classical Western dance form Ballet as a metaphor for the struggle to conform to one specific culture as a first-generation American.
The symbols used in the artwork are a poignant representation of my experience and that of countless others. This showcases the beauty and complexity of embodying multiple cultural identities while highlighting the strength it takes to harmonize these dual worlds.
Putting on a Show
Medium: Colored pencils and Acrylic on paper
Description:
This is a surrealistic self-portrait depicting my experience with the internal conflict of my cultural identity. It is the pressure of not fully conforming to the American side of my identity or the Indian side that pulls me apart. This relentless duality gives rise to an unsettling sense of stage fright while putting on a theatrical show as I navigate my everyday life and perform a delicate charade of identity. I second-guess myself and feel pressured by the scrutinizing eyes of the audience watching while striving to embody a perfect facade.
Prejudice in Accent
Medium: Acrylic on Canvas
Description:
This is a thought-provoking statement work that was created to emphasize the topic of prejudice in accents. I depended on the background, symbols, and motifs to make the flow and movement of language. Through the blending of visual representation, I illuminated the impact of prejudice while challenging the viewers to embrace linguistic diversity and break barriers of biases. My main goal with this work was to foster inclusivity and embrace societal differences.
Medium: Acrylic on Canvas
Description:
I exhibited two versions of myself through a surrealistic composition. Layered acrylic paint.
Safeguarding
Medium: Colored Pencils and Acrylic on Paper
Description:
Showcasing the nurturing of my cultural identity with light and shadow. Burnished colored pencils.
Estrangement
Medium: Colored pencils and Acrylic on Paper
Description:
As a teenager, I have experienced first-hand how adolescence can be a tumultuous phase for high school students, marked by a whirlwind of physical, emotional, and social changes. For many, this period of life is fraught with self-doubt, peer pressure, and the quest for independence, making it feel like navigating stormy waters. Despite this, many adolescents manage to stay afloat by drawing on their resilience. Through this work, I represented the harnessing of inner strength through the rocky yet relatable waters of one’s high school years.
Solace
Medium: Acrylic on Canvas
Description:
I represented the comfort of being surrounded and wrapped within my culture. Layered acrylic paint.
Village Lady
Medium: Acrylic on Canvas
Description:
I crafted this work with the intention of displaying a vibrant composition that centers around a female farmer immersed amid a lush, verdant field of grass. The blend of textures and colors provides an exhilarating combination. As the sun bathes the landscape in warm hues, her presence in the fields is a vivid testament to the enduring connection between the land and the enduring spirit of the people who call these villages their home.
A Study in Stillness
Medium: Acrylic on Canvas
Description:
This classic still-life painting is a testament to the basic principles of art. With this, I focused on expressing my knowledge of lighting and shadow by painting a life model of a fruit composition with one light source, creating highlights and shadows, and also focusing on the art principles of balance, emphasis, and proportion. This work is a testament to the foundation of my art skills.
The Three Ladies
The View
The Barn
Acrylics and water colors on Paper
Acrylics on Canvas
Oil Paints on Canvas
Chic Essense
Medium: Colored Pencils on Paper
Description: "Chic Essence" is a captivating observational still-life art piece that meticulously captures the curated arrangement of vanity items within my room.
The arrangement of vanity items, strategically placed forms a cohesive and visually engaging composition. Each element, from makeup essentials to elegant accessories, contributes to the overall chic ambiance. The deliberate placement of these items suggests a thoughtful consideration of form, balance, and the interplay of shapes and textures.
The choice of a single light source contributes to a subtle yet dramatic atmosphere that invites viewers to explore the intricacies of each item and appreciate the nuanced beauty of the ensemble.
Ethereal Embrace
Acrylic on Canvas
Description:
This work was a class project in which I was directed to incorporate a “monster” into a beautiful scenery. I created a visual poetry that transcends whimsical fantasy by capturing a siren draped across a pearl. A siren, known for its alluring beauty yet deadly nature, brings a twist to this work. The overall composition invites contemplation on the delicate balance between the ethereal and the tangible.
Medium: Acrylic on Canvas
Description :
This is a painting I created based on an interaction I had during my trip to India while I was visiting my ancestral village. These women as they set out to fields from the village square. Their vibrant sarees billowed in the morning breeze, forming a colorful tapestry against the backdrop of the rural landscape. They set out on their journey with a sense of purpose that ran more profound than the roots of the crops they cultivated.
Walking along dusty, winding paths, they carried with them the hopes of their families and the legacy of their ancestors. The weight of the farm tools and baskets of seeds was matched only by their determination. I wanted to portray how they were not just going to trill the soil; they were sowing the seeds of Women's empowerment and financial independence.