Sunanda Khajuria, a prominent Indian visual artist, is currently making waves in the art world with her compelling artworks that pay homage to her motherland and explore various socio-political issues. Represented by the prestigious Indian art gallery, “Art Heritage,” Sunanda’s work is gaining recognition for its ability to elevate the woman’s identity and shed light on the historical narratives of migration, gender equality, sexuality, and femininity. One of Sunanda’s notable achievements is her pursuit of doctoral research in China. This decision showcases her dedication to her craft and her willingness to explore new cultural landscapes. In her art practice, she embraces a diverse range of cultures and artistic traditions, aiming to bridge gaps and bring people together through her visual storytelling. Through her artistic journeys, Sunanda has become an ambassador of cultural exchange, beautifully blending Eastern and Western art forms and techniques.

While Sunanda’s exploration of her Indian roots is evident in her artwork, she has also ventured into experimenting with Chinese ancient culture, philosophy, materials, and techniques. Her fascination with Chinese art is particularly evident in her use of silk and natural and mineral colours. By utilizing materials and techniques similar to those used during the Tang dynasty in the 6th century, Sunanda brings forth a sense of historical connection and imbues her artworks with a distinct Eastern aesthetic. Sunanda’s artistic prowess has not gone unnoticed. Her dedication to her craft and scholarly pursuits was recognized when she was awarded a research fellowship by the Lakshmi Mittal and Family South Asia Institute at Harvard University. This achievement highlights her commitment to expanding her knowledge and pushing the boundaries of her art practice. Furthermore, her recent One Road One Belt Art Award by the Chinese Government in February 2024 solidifies her position as a celebrated artist on an international level.

Sunanda recently showcased her stunning artworks at the renowned India Art Fair in New Delhi, where her creations garnered the attention of critics, curators, and major art collectors alike. What sets her artwork apart is the profound influence of Chinese culture and art that resonates throughout her pieces. Sunanda skillfully incorporates elements of Chinese traditions, customs, and aesthetics, resulting in a harmonious fusion of Eastern and Western artistic styles. This ability to seamlessly blend diverse influences showcases her talent, creativity, and dedication to bridging cultural divides. Through her visually striking masterpieces, Sunanda invites viewers to explore the rich cultural heritage of both India and China. Her artworks serve as a powerful medium for cultural exchange, encouraging dialogue and appreciation for the diverse narratives and artistic traditions of both nations. Sunanda’s art practice not only celebrates her Indian roots but also highlights her commitment to immersing herself in different cultures and using art as a means to connect people globally.

The artist’s exhibited artworks, such as “Between Earth and Sky,” “Cloud Emerging From The Peak,” and “Food For Thoughts,” showcase a deep exploration of Chinese culture and tradition. This art fair proved to be incredibly successful for the artist, as her pieces captivated viewers and sparked intrigue and curiosity.

“Between Earth and Sky” is a captivating painting that beautifully captures the essence of watermelon, mountains, clouds, and cherry blossoms. At first glance, the painting may seem like a simple depiction of these elements, but it holds profound significance in various aspects of culture, society, and politics. In Chinese culture, watermelon holds a special place in the hearts of its people, particularly during scorching summer days. It becomes an integral part of regular life, providing a refreshing respite from the oppressive heat. The vibrant red colour and juicy sweetness of a ripe watermelon symbolize vitality and rejuvenation. Sharing watermelons with friends and loved ones during picnics or family gatherings not only offers a delicious treat but also symbolizes a sense of community and togetherness. In Chinese philosophy, watermelon is associated with good luck and prosperity. Its round shape and abundance of seeds symbolize fertility and wealth. Eating watermelon is believed to bring positive energy and abundance into one’s life. The fruit is often presented as a gift during Chinese New Year celebrations to bring good fortune to recipients for the coming year. Watermelon is also seen as a symbol of hospitality and generosity, as it is often offered to guests and visitors. However, in the political dimension, the watermelon takes on a sombre significance, particularly in the Palestinian conflict. It becomes a poignant symbol of struggle and displacement, representing the ongoing hardships faced by marginalized communities and the complex web of human suffering and political turmoil surrounding them. The painting “Between Earth and Sky” captures the essence of these complexities through its depiction of a watermelon against the backdrop of mountains, clouds, and cherry blossoms. The contrasting elements in the painting symbolize the juxtaposition of joy and sorrow, prosperity and struggle.

Moving on to “Cloud Emerging From The Peak,” this artwork is done using natural colours on silk, imitating a scroll painting. Within Taoist philosophy, the concept of the journey holds immense significance. It goes beyond physical movement from one place to another, encompassing a spiritual and metaphysical voyage towards self-discovery and harmony with the universe. The Tao Te Ching guides individuals on their life’s path by emphasizing the importance of embracing the flow of the universe and finding inner peace. The painting “Cloud Emerging From The Peak” visually represents the facets of a spiritual odyssey. It portrays a serene landscape, capturing the essence of the universe and its interconnectedness with all living creatures. The vibrant hues and harmonious brushstrokes convey a sense of balance and tranquillity, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the painting’s serene atmosphere. Further into the artwork, an intricate network of pathways unfolds, representing a symbolic journey mirroring the different stages and challenges encountered in our own lives. These paths branch and intersect, representing the choices and opportunities that arise along our journey. The Taoist belief in the interconnectedness of all things is visually reinforced through the paths merging and diverging, urging viewers to reflect on the mysterious synchronicities of life. The traditional Chinese scroll painting method used in this artwork holds immense significance in Chinese history and culture. Created using mineral colours, these artworks offer a visually stunning experience. The mastery of the continuous scroll form developed in the 6th century transports the viewer into a realm of artistic brilliance. Each section of the scroll tells a different part of the story, and the artist skillfully connects them to create a seamless narrative. This continuous scroll format allows for a sense of movement and progression, drawing the viewer into the artwork and immersing them in the unfolding story.

Lastly, “Food for Thoughts” is a captivating artwork created by the artist using acrylic on linen. In this painting, the artist incorporated a burger form as the central element and added various intriguing components such as clouds, fish, mountains, cherry blossoms, and others. This unconventional combination of elements sparks curiosity and captivates the viewer’s imagination. According to the artist, the inspiration behind this artwork stems from her experiences in China. Initially, she struggled with adapting to the food culture in China, but over the years, she discovered a plethora of cultural nutrition that nourished her creativity and mind. The artist emphasizes that these newfound discoveries have now become an integral part of her creative process, which she refers to as “food for thought.” The burger form serves as a metaphor for the artist’s journey and transformation. Traditionally associated with fast food and Western culture, the burger represents a departure from the familiar and known. By combining it with elements of nature and culture, the artist suggests that creativity can emerge from unexpected sources and experiences. The inclusion of clouds, mountains, and cherry blossoms further enhances the artwork’s depth and symbolism. Clouds symbolize the transient nature of thoughts and ideas, while mountains signify the challenges and obstacles overcome during the artist’s journey. Cherry blossoms, often associated with beauty and renewal, embody the transformative power of the artist’s experiences. Overall, “Food For Thoughts” is a testament to the artist’s ability to find inspiration in the most unlikely places. It highlights the importance of embracing new experiences and cultures as a means to fuel creative expression. By merging contrasting elements, the artist successfully invites viewers to contemplate the connection between culture, creativity, and personal growth.

In conclusion, the artist’s exhibited artworks, including “Between Earth and Sky,” “Cloud Emerging From The Peak,” and “Food For Thoughts,” reveal a deep research into Chinese culture and tradition. These pieces have resonated with viewers, successfully capturing the essence of various aspects of Chinese society, politics, and philosophy. The art fair has been a tremendous success for the artist, showcasing her talent and ability to provoke thought and spark intrigue through her captivating paintings.