The India Art Festival ’26 brings together a diverse range of artists, and having visited almost every year, I always look forward to discovering more galleries, solo showcases, and unique collections. What fascinates me the most, is the excellence of the artists and the distinct niche each one brings to their practice. From mixed-media explorations and intricate textural works to immersive installations, the festival offers an incredible variety of artistic expressions, with artworks ranging from ₹1,000 to ₹70,000.
As a Pichhvai artist, I naturally find myself drawn to the finer details; observing an artist’s process, techniques, and the thought behind each creation. Beyond the artwork itself, I love discovering the stories and inspirations that bring each piece to life.
Over the course of the exhibition, I had the opportunity to interact with several artists and learn more about their journeys. I’m sharing a few of these encounters, along with insights into the artists and the stories behind their work.
- Heena Vaghani is a Mumbai-based contemporary artist whose work explores the intersection of spirituality and Vastu Shastra. Her series of four paintings incorporates elements of Vastu, symbols associated with Lord Shiva, mudras, the Buddha’s seven chakras, and Rudraksha. Through an earthy and metallic colour palette, she creates a harmonious balance of energy and aesthetics.
- Riddhi Mehta, founder of Artscapes, explores textures, abstract forms, and minimalism, blending ancient symbols with contemporary aesthetics. Working across multiple mediums, she is known for her luxurious mirror installations and large-scale statement pieces. Her creations combine art with functionality, making them striking additions to modern interiors. These distinctive installations are increasingly featured in designs by interior designers and architects.
- Aditi is a contemporary mandala artist who reinterprets traditional mandala designs using distinctive elements such as glitter and ablas. Her series celebrates the beauty of impermanence, transforming fleeting moments into a meaningful artistic expression. Drawing primarily from nature, her body of work celebrates organic forms, imperfections, and inherent beauty.
I hope this glimpse into the India Art Festival encourages you to discover more artists, explore their work, and appreciate the stories and intention behind each creation. There is always something new to see, learn, and connect with through art.
