First Solo exhibition for Indian-American Artist Shana Sood opens at Bikaner House this week
Indian-American artist Shana Sood is returning to India with two solo exhibitions. ‘Titled HOMECOMING: Echoes of Belonging by Shana Sood, the Art show is curated by Georgina Maddox at Bikaner House and opened on 4th April. The solo exhibition is on display till 8th April 2025.
Through this exhibition, Shana’s portraits reflect stories of the people she has encountered along the way, inviting viewers to engage in a deeper conversation about the subtle differences—and shared experiences—between cultures. These works are designed to stand as individual pieces, sparking curiosity and dialogue about the complexities of relationships and identity. The second exhibition is set at the Arpana Caur Art Gallery from April 10th to 20th, 2025.
Shana Sood’s Homecoming Themes
Born and raised in New Delhi, Shana Sood moved to the United States in 2005. A self-taught artist, she discovered her unique style in her late thirties, drawing inspiration from her Indian heritage and experiences in the U.S.
Shana Sood’s work explores themes of identity, belonging, and cultural duality, offering intimate portraits that delve into human connections and the balance between personal identity and modern life.
Sood’s paintings are characterized by vivid Indian colors—deep reds, bright yellows, and rich blues—reflecting the vibrancy of festivals, weddings, and traditional art forms she admired in her youth. She has a particular affinity for deep red, a color that evokes a sense of home and nostalgia. Her art embodies an aspirational romanticism, resonating with the diaspora’s pursuit of what was left behind—elusive yet ever-present in her vibrant palette.
“Returning to India with my art feels like coming full circle,” Sood reflects. “‘Homecoming’ is both a personal and artistic journey, a reflection of the lives and stories that have shaped me across two continents.”
Sood’s work has been featured in prominent New England galleries, including the North Shore Arts Association, Arlington Center for the Arts, and Marblehead Arts Association. In 2021, she became an anchor artist at The Patriot Place Art Gallery near Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. Her pieces, often inspired by the women she has encountered, bridge cultural divides and offer fresh perspectives on contemporary portraiture.
Milestone for Shana Sood
The “Homecoming” exhibitions in New Delhi mark a significant milestone in Sood’s artistic career, presenting deeply personal works that honor her roots while embracing her artistic evolution. These exhibitions provide Indian audiences with a unique opportunity to experience the emotional depth and storytelling power of her paintings.
These venues provide fitting backdrops for Sood’s “Homecoming,” offering spaces that celebrate artistic expression and cultural heritage.
Feature Image- Shana Sood
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