We were lucky to catch up with Ishanya Singhal recently and have shared our conversation below.

Ishanya, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

My childhood was steeped in creativity, with each day offering a new canvas for my imagination. I adored crafting hand-drawn cards for any occasion, big or small, reveling in the personal touch I could bring to each piece. My home was a playground of DIY projects, where my mother and I would transform mundane items into decorative pieces, each project a testament to our shared love for art. My dad noticed how much I loved art and suggested I start an art book to keep all my drawings and experiments in one place. This book became my treasure trove, filled with experiments in color, shape, and texture.

Recognizing my passion, my parents encouraged me to explore various creative fields. With their support, I looked into numerous opportunities where I could hone my artistry into a career. My older brother, too, played a pivotal role; together, as we researched the best art programs across the States, seeking a place where I could flourish professionally.

Initially, I was drawn to fashion design—a dream for many a girl growing up in the 2000s. The allure of the fashion world was irresistible, yet it was only when I immersed myself in college courses that I discovered my true calling wasn’t just in designing clothes but in the very fibers of fabric itself. I became enamored with the processes that allowed me to manipulate textiles into works of art. Dyeing, screen printing, print making—each technique opened up new possibilities, a different way to tell a story through fabric. Weaving, crocheting, and smocking weren’t just methods; they were languages through which I could express my artistic voice. My journey through college became not just an education but a deep, personal exploration of how far my creativity could stretch, shaping my path towards becoming a textile artist.

Ishanya, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’ve always been a storyteller at heart, captivated by the art of weaving intricate tales and intricately connecting them to my artworks, or vice versa. This fascination with narrative construction has been a constant companion throughout my life, guiding my creative journey. As I grew older, I delved deeper into my Indian culture and heritage, an exploration that significantly influenced my art. I began creating artworks that not only reflected my aesthetic but also narrated crucial aspects of my heritage learning. This blend of personal exploration and cultural storytelling enriched my creative identity.

During my time at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), my focus shifted slightly, channeling my efforts into expressing stories of human emotions through various art mediums. This exploration allowed me to delve into the universal experiences of joy, sorrow, love, and loss, using my art as a bridge to connect with others on a deeply emotional level.

Lately, my journey has taken a new turn as I’ve embarked on the exciting challenge of building my own brand. This endeavor has led me to experiment with color theory, an area that fascinates me both for its psychological impact and its aesthetic appeal. As I navigate this phase, my primary goal is to narrow down my vision, refining my creative expression to establish a distinct brand language. This process is about more than just selecting colors or techniques; it’s about infusing my work with a coherent identity that captures the essence of my stories and the depth of my heritage. It’s a journey of discovery, one that requires me to balance my diverse interests with a focused approach, ultimately allowing me to create a brand that is truly reflective of who I am as a creator and storyteller.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

Perfection was my goal when I first started studying art and design—I wanted everything I made to be flawless. I thought that was the only way to be successful. But as I learned more, I realized that the little imperfections were what made my art special and truly mine.

In college, this need for everything to be perfect really challenged me, especially when it came to keeping a sketchbook. My classmates filled their sketchbooks with lots of colorful, messy sketches and ideas, while my pages were almost empty. I thought every page had to be a finished, perfect piece of art, and often ended up with just one detailed drawing to show my whole idea.

This need to be perfect held me back; it stopped me from experimenting freely, which is a big part of learning in art school. I found myself enviously observing my classmates, who seemed so free in their creative processes, unafraid to make mistakes or to let their ideas evolve organically on paper. It took time and a bit of struggle, but I gradually began to see the value in letting go of the need for perfection in every draft and sketch. Embracing this more liberated approach allowed me to expand my horizons, explore more broadly, and ultimately, enrich my artistic voice.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

Growing up in India, I had the privilege of attending various art and artisan fairs where I witnessed local artists selling their intricate, labor-intensive artwork for minimal amounts. India is a textile hub, rich with diverse art forms, yet often, the importance, beauty, and effort involved in these creations are overlooked. As a society, it’s crucial that we offer these artists a more deserving platform, recognizing their work without undermining it through bargaining. Instead, we should appreciate and value their hard work which significantly contributes to our culture and heritage. It’s about giving due respect and acknowledgment to the skills that enrich our cultural landscape, ensuring these artists and art forms receive the appreciation and support they truly deserve.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.ishanya.art/
• Instagram: @ishanya.art
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/ishanyasinghal