Portfolio
Featured Projects
UK INDIA DOSTI – Art Workshops & Exhibition
UK INDIA DOSTI Indian Art Festival, an extraordinary event by MITHILAsmita that showcased the talent and artistry of 75 rural women artists from India was being organised under my leadership. The festival featured art workshops and exhibitions held in London, Glasgow, and New Delhi, where these talented artists served as gurus, sharing their knowledge and skills. The highlight of the festival was the closing exhibition held at the prestigious Nehru Centre, London where over 40 different art, crafts and textile forms were showcased, capturing the richness of India’s artistic heritage. The festival left a lasting impact by fostering cultural exchange, empowering women artisans, and promoting diverse art forms to a global audience. The festival was sponsored by Steel Exchange India Limited under its Corporate Social Responsibility initiative, marking the 75th independence anniversary of India.
https://www.craftscouncil.org.uk/whats-on/khadi-embroidery-workshop
https://twitter.com/WhatsOnGlasgow/status/1547570846369058816
Traditional Art Entrepreneurship Summit TAES- 11 Days Festival, Exhibition & Workshops
The Traditional Art Entrepreneurship Summit, organized by MITHILAsmita in collaboration with the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, in 2018 under my leadership, provided a platform to support and empower over 50 artisans and cultural entrepreneurs from different states. The festival featured exhibitions, craft workshops for children, and informative sessions, and received support from the US Government, French Government, and the Ministry of MSME, Government of India. The festival was sponsored by the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India and was held at the prestigious National Crafts Museum, New Delhi.
Participating artisan entrepreneurs of TAES2018 were fortunate to receive free entrepreneurial workshops at the esteemed American Centre in New Delhi, generously offered by the US Government. These workshops provided invaluable guidance and support to empower these entrepreneurs in their entrepreneurial journeys. It was an incredible opportunity for them to enhance their skills, gain business insights, and nurture their entrepreneurial spirit. We are deeply grateful to the US Government for their generosity in organizing these workshops and contributing to the growth and success of artisan entrepreneurs.
Museum Souvenirs – British Museum London, National Museum ND, The Rubin Museum NYC
Under my leadership, MITHILAsmita created lifestyle merchandise, including scarves, bags, belts, masks, and more, for prestigious museums worldwide such as the British Museum in London, the National Museum in New Delhi, the rubinmuseum.org in New York, and the GVK Jaya He Museum in Mumbai. These products were made with authentic and sustainable Indian textiles in silk and cotton, hand-painted and hand-embroidered by talented rural women artists of Madhubani.
CLORE Fellowship Secondment at TATE Modern and TATE Britain, London
During my tenure as a Chevening Clore Fellow, I had the privilege of undertaking my Clore secondment at Tate, encompassing both Tate Modern and Tate Britain. My focus revolved around developing a volunteer retention and re-engagement strategy in a post-COVID era, along with spearheading the digital implementation of volunteer resources. This experience enabled me to utilize my cultural, analytical, and technical skills while immersing myself in the extraordinary works exhibited at Tate. I gained invaluable insights into their operations, strategy, and partnerships. Moreover, I had the unique opportunity to shadow esteemed leaders of the institution and actively participate in meetings and negotiations with board members, further enriching my professional journey
International Exhibitions of Heritage Crafts-based Lifestyle Merchandise
Under my leadership, I have had the privilege of showcasing the finest Madhubani and Indian handmade heritage art, crafts, and textiles through MITHILAsmita. Our exhibitions have extended beyond borders, reaching international destinations such as New York, London, Toronto, Nairobi, and many more. These exhibitions have played a vital role in bringing global recognition to the exquisite traditional art forms we showcase. Through these events, we have fostered cultural exchange, allowing people from diverse backgrounds to appreciate and connect with the rich artistic heritage of India. It has been an incredible journey, promoting the beauty and craftsmanship of Madhubani and Indian handmade heritage art on a global platform. I am proud to have played a part in spreading awareness and appreciation for these traditional art forms, and I look forward to continuing this journey of cultural exchange and celebration.
International Museum Shop and Folk Art Market Research (USA, Canada, UK)
A decade back, as a newcomer in the cultural sector, I embarked on a captivating journey to explore the dynamics of Indian handicrafts within the global landscape. Through extensive field research, I delved into the world of museum shops, investigating what products were being sold, identifying gaps in the market, and understanding the success stories of various countries. My research took me to renowned museums in vibrant cities such as New York, Toronto, London, and more. Immersed in these diverse cultural hubs, I absorbed invaluable insights. Fueled by my findings, I returned home with a mission to empower the talented women artists of Madhubani.
Guided by their exceptional skills, I trained and collaborated with these artists to create what the global market truly desired. In my quest for authenticity and sustainability, I sought out traditional weavers across India, sourcing the finest and most environmentally friendly fabrics.
This meticulous curation culminated in the birth of a unique merchandise collection at MITHILAsmita. Each piece within this collection tells a story, honouring the rich heritage of Madhubani art while embracing contemporary trends. With every purchase, we celebrate the artistic legacy of India while uplifting the lives of the women artists who bring these creations to life.
Digital and Soft Training for Rural Women Artists
I take great pride in bringing a personal touch to my work, particularly through the training programs I conduct for rural indigenous and traditional artists. By equipping them with digital technology and soft skills, I empower these talented individuals to showcase their art on a global scale, gaining well-deserved recognition for their unique talents. Through these efforts, I aim to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity. By embracing technology and contemporary skills, we can ensure the preservation of cultural heritage while also fostering economic growth for these artists and their communities. Witnessing the transformation and growth of these artists as they navigate the global art scene is truly fulfilling. It is a privilege to be a part of their journey, supporting them in promoting their art and securing opportunities that may have otherwise been inaccessible. I am committed to continuing these endeavors, nurturing cultural preservation and facilitating the economic empowerment of indigenous and traditional artists. Together, we can celebrate their artistic brilliance and contribute to a more inclusive and vibrant creative landscape.
Creative Industries Entrepreneurship & Technology Consulting
I offer a comprehensive range of expertise in technology, management, marketing, branding, and product design. I take immense pride in my involvement with corporations/organizations in India that support artisan clusters practising heritage art, crafts and textiles forms. Based on my entrepreneurship model of MITHILAsmita, I helped them successfully establish entrepreneurial setups that harness the power of art and crafts to create livelihood opportunities in marginalized communities. In a recent project with Nayara Energy, I worked closely with the Rabari applique and embroidery artisan communities in coastal Gujarat, India. Together, we successfully designed, developed, and launched heritage art-based merchandise. I also provided valuable training and guidance in marketing, pricing, and sales, empowering them to showcase their craftsmanship and expand their reach.
With a deep understanding of the creative industry, I provide valuable insights and guidance to help my clients achieve their goals. Whether it’s leveraging technology for outreach, implementing impactful marketing strategies, creating a strong brand identity, or optimizing product design for market success, I bring a holistic approach to support early stage creative ventures.
Internship/Volunteering Opportunities for Young People from Universities
I strongly believe in involving young people as interns or volunteers in cultural and creative projects, as I see the immense value they bring in terms of contribution and learning. This engagement allows them to utilize their skills and talents for the betterment of the cultural ecosystem while also providing them with valuable knowledge in social entrepreneurship.
By involving university students in these projects, we create a mutually beneficial environment where they can contribute their fresh perspectives and creative ideas. They gain hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of the cultural sector, while also developing skills in project management, teamwork, and problem-solving. Moreover, this engagement goes beyond just skill development. It plays a crucial role in shaping responsible adulthood and nurturing the potential for future cultural entrepreneurs. Through their involvement, students gain insights into the social impact of cultural initiatives, fostering a sense of responsibility and empathy towards their communities.
Throughout my journey, I have collaborated with esteemed universities worldwide, including Maastricht University in the Netherlands, the British School of Fashion in London, Brooklyn College in NYC, Narsee Monjee University in Bangalore, MDI Gurgaon, Banasthali Vidyapith in India, Indraprastha University in New Delhi, Delhi University, NIT Kurukshetra, Netaji Subhash University of Technology, and many more. These collaborations have enriched my experience and allowed for valuable knowledge exchange.
Corporate Gifts based on Heritage Art, Crafts and Textiles
Under my visionary leadership, I had the privilege of designing sustainable corporate gifts for renowned companies such as Tata, Coca-Cola, TCS, Asian Paints, and others. These eco-friendly gifts represented a seamless fusion of creativity and environmental consciousness, perfectly aligned with the values upheld by these esteemed organizations.
Indian Government Policy Advisory & Research
I played a pivotal role in the Indian Government’s policy advisory and research initiatives for the artisan sector. My contributions were recognized by the Ministry of MSME, Government of India, who honoured me with an appreciation letter, acknowledging the valuable insights and efforts I brought to the table. I collaborated closely with both the central and state governments of India to provide unwavering support to the artisan sector and drive lasting impact.
Leading Indian Cultural Festival for Children (CCRT, Ministry for Culture GOI) 2019
In 2019, I had the honor of spearheading the Indradhanush festival, an annual cultural event for children hosted by the Centre for Cultural Resources and Training (CCRT) under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. The festival witnessed the enthusiastic participation of over 5000 children, who had the opportunity to learn from acclaimed Gurus in the field of visual and performing arts.
With a strategic approach and under my able leadership, the festival experienced enhanced visibility and participation, surpassing our initial expectations. The positive response and unforeseen participation not only created a vibrant atmosphere but also quadrupled the revenue generated from multiple events associated with the festival. It was immensely fulfilling to witness the impact of the Indradhanush festival on the children, fostering their love for arts and providing them with a platform to showcase their talent. The success of the event underscored the importance of cultural initiatives in nurturing creativity and promoting cultural exchange.
I am grateful for the opportunity to have led such a significant cultural festival, and I look forward to continuing my efforts in creating transformative experiences for children and promoting the arts for future generations.
MITHILAsmita Folk Art Gallery in Bangalore
In 2011, I had the privilege of establishing the MITHILAsmita Folk Art Gallery in Bangalore, which served as the pioneering platform for creating awareness about heritage art forms like Madhubani Paintings of India. Through the gallery, our online website, and active social media presence, I successfully disseminated knowledge about the cultural significance of this art form, while showcasing the exceptional work of talented women artisans from rural villages.
This initiative played a vital role in raising awareness and promoting the rich heritage associated with these art forms. By providing a dedicated space to exhibit the masterpieces by rural artists and educating the public about their significance, we celebrated their skills and contributed to the preservation and promotion of traditional art and culture.
I take great pride in the impact achieved through the MITHILAsmita Folk Art Gallery, as it has served as a catalyst for preserving and propagating these art forms. It has also created a platform for empowering women artisans, fostering economic growth, and cultivating a deeper appreciation for our cultural heritage.
LIGHT FOR ART 2013 / 2014
Under my visionary leadership, MITHILAsmita spearheaded the “Light for Art” event, with the aim of creating safer and more productive nighttime environments for rural women in India. Through collaboration with esteemed corporates like GCorp Developers and Bajaj Electricals, among others, we successfully illuminated over 260 homes of women artisans with solar lamps.
The “Light for Art” initiative brought significant positive impact to the lives of these women artisans, providing them with access to safe and reliable lighting solutions. This not only enhanced their safety and security but also enabled them to continue their artistic pursuits and productive activities even after sunset.
By harnessing the power of collaboration with corporate partners, we were able to make a tangible difference in the lives of these women, empowering them and uplifting their communities. The “Light for Art” event exemplified the transformative potential of social initiatives that blend creativity, sustainability, and corporate social responsibility.
Covid-19 Efforts: Sustainable Masks Production for frontline workers and people
During the toughest times in the history of mankind, I dedicated myself to supporting artisans, weavers, and tailors as an Indian cultural leader. The global Covid pandemic had deeply impacted communities, especially those relying on daily wages for survival. Families struggled to meet their basic needs, including food.
Driven by a sense of responsibility and compassion, I took the initiative to create livelihood opportunities for these individuals. Utilizing my knowledge gained from learning how to make basic fabric masks through online platforms like YouTube, I provided training to underprivileged women. Armed with basic tailoring skills and ordinary sewing machines, which are traditionally gifted to brides in their communities, these women started earning income by producing masks. Not only did this help sustain their own families, but it also contributed to the safety of the wider community.
We extended our support further by distributing these masks to essential workers such as police personnel, vegetable vendors, sanitation workers, and other frontline heroes. Witnessing the positive impact of our initiative and the resilience of the women involved filled me with a deep sense of fulfillment and gratitude.
Amidst the challenges faced by Madhubani artists due to closed markets, haats, and fairs during the pandemic, I felt a strong urge to empower them. To this end, I created YouTube videos in multiple languages, including my native language Maithili, guiding these artists in adorning masks with their intricate art forms. This endeavor aimed to elevate the value of their work, allowing them to command better prices and sustain their livelihoods.
The significance of our work during the pandemic was acknowledged by Nottingham Arts Mela, which celebrated my efforts as an Indian cultural leader supporting artisans, weavers, and tailors. This recognition emphasized the transformative impact of our initiatives, enabling these communities to sustain themselves and preserve their traditional craftsmanship.
In addition to these accomplishments, I was honored to be nominated for a UN Award in the Covid category as the head of MITHILAsmita. This prestigious nomination validated our commitment to humanity and the promotion of art during challenging times.
Notably, my work also caught the attention of Global Shapers, a community under the World Economic Forum, which invited me to participate in discussions on creating masks using indigenous and traditional arts. These conversations highlighted the profound intersection of art, culture, and safety, underscoring the power of creativity in addressing global challenges.
Business Case Studies to support academic research in the field of Creative Entrepreneurship
I am deeply passionate about supporting the development of business case studies in the realms of social entrepreneurship and cultural entrepreneurship. Collaborating with esteemed publishing houses like Ivey Publishing in Canada, MDI Gurgaon in India, and various publishers in the USA, I have been able to contribute to academic research in the field of Creative Entrepreneurship.
These case studies play a crucial role in fostering innovation and promoting sustainable practices within the entrepreneurial landscape. By highlighting real-life examples and best practices, they provide valuable insights and inspire future generations of creative entrepreneurs.
I am honored to be involved in this process and to have the opportunity to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field. Through these collaborative efforts, we aim to create a positive impact on the business community and society as a whole.
Training Women Artists of Madhubani for lifestyle merchandise production
I took the lead in training women artists of Madhubani to create world-class art merchandise with the objective of enabling their economic empowerment and enhancing their visibility in the market. Through this initiative, I aimed to ensure that their valuable contributions to the art world were recognized and appreciated, allowing them to thrive and succeed in their artistic pursuits.
Museum Week 2018 – 60 women artists of Madhubani going LIVE in France via digital media
Under my leadership, MITHILAsmita participated in Museum Week, a significant cultural event where we showcased the talents of 60 skilled women artists through live demonstrations of their freehand Madhubani paintings on Facebook. This captivating event drew art enthusiasts from France and around the world, creating a beautiful and engaging phenomenon that celebrated the rich cultural heritage of Madhubani art. It was a proud moment for our team and a testament to the global appeal of this traditional art form.