Kavya Prasanna
Kavya Prasanna’s artistic journey is rooted in a deep reverence for literature, philosophy, and the transformative power of storytelling. Growing up in an environment where ancient poet-philosophers shaped her worldview, she was drawn to their messages of freedom, equality, and social justice. Their words, carried through time, became the foundation of her creative expression—an expression that challenges patriarchal structures and amplifies the unheard voices of women.
Though she was always drawn to art as a child, life’s demands led her away from it—until the pandemic unexpectedly reawakened her passion. What began as a spontaneous moment of reconnection became a profound realization: creativity was not just a pastime, but a vital part of her identity. Without formal education in art or writing, she honed her skills through intuition, experience, and an unyielding dedication to self-expression.
Her work is characterized by an ongoing exploration of different styles and mediums, motivated by a desire to push artistic boundaries and bring fresh perspectives to complex emotions. At the heart of her art lies a singular focus—women. She delves into their resilience, struggles, and silenced narratives, capturing the emotional depth of those who have lost their individuality, freedom, and self-expression. Her goal is not just to portray, but to give voice—to illustrate the defiance, strength, and self-liberation that emerges from quiet battles.
Salvador Dalí and Frida Kahlo are two of her greatest artistic influences. Dalí’s surrealism, his ability to distort reality, and his symbolic storytelling inspire her to experiment with abstract forms and layered meanings. Kahlo’s deeply personal, emotionally raw self-portraits resonate with her desire to channel personal pain and resilience into art. Their fearless self-expression, combined with the spiritual and philosophical themes of poets like Basavanna and Akkamahadevi, has shaped her artistic voice—a fusion of surreal symbolism and deeply personal storytelling.
Her creative process is both structured and intuitive. Before she begins, she sets the mood—music, quiet reflection, and deep emotional connection to her subject. Ideas often take form through loose sketches or writing, allowing the process to unfold naturally. Some pieces are drawn from memories, like Pickling, which was inspired by the warmth of her grandmother’s kitchen during summers spent watching her prepare mango pickle. Others, like In the Shadows of the Pandemic, reflect societal realities—capturing the vulnerability of a pregnant woman through intricate symbolism, such as strings representing external control and a brain embodying emotional struggle.
When faced with creative blocks, she steps away to recharge—reading, listening to music, and immersing herself in nature. Shifting to a different medium, free-writing, or simply allowing time to pass often helps break through stagnation. She embraces the philosophy that art, like life, moves in cycles—moments of abundance and moments of stillness, both necessary to creation.
At its core, her work conveys themes of liberation, resilience, and the weight of societal constraints. She hopes that her audience finds not just recognition in her art, but a sense of empowerment—a reflection of their own struggles, triumphs, and identities. Her success is not measured in external accolades, but in emotional resonance, the ability to inspire, and the continuous evolution of her creative voice.
One of the most deeply personal experiences shaping her current work is the loss of her son, born prematurely at 25 weeks. The emotional weight of that journey—discovery, hope, love, grief—has profoundly influenced her artistic vision. She is now working on Enclosed Echoes, a series exploring resilience and the silent battles women endure. This series, along with a larger visual storytelling project, will translate emotions onto canvas in a way that words alone cannot, creating a space for connection, reflection, and healing.
Through her work, Kavya Prasanna seeks to remind the world that every story, no matter how painful or fleeting, deserves to be remembered. Art, she believes, is not just about aesthetics—it is about transformation, about honoring the unseen and giving voice to the silenced. Her message to aspiring artists and creators is simple: Draw what you truly feel. Let your work be an honest reflection of your thoughts, your emotions, and your journey. Creativity, at its best, is a bridge between the self and the world.
