Tanya Gawdi attempts to remove 'stereotypical opinions' about Indians through her work

Tanya Gawdi, a photographer, graphic designer and fine arts expert, is in Los Angeles since the last four years to spread her ideas, and to make a positive change through her work.

Originally from Mumbai, Tanya believes that most people, especially in the United States, have many stereotypical opinions about Indians which are not true. "We are not considered artistic or good at anything else. I am here to change this misconception about Indians and show the world our rich heritage of lots of colour and culture", Tanya said in a statement.

Below is the list of works that Tanya is involved with:

CHILDREN BOOK SERIES (Count with Louis)

Count with Louis is a children's activity/learning book that teaches numbers from 1-10 along with fun activities to keep the child immersed in the experience. The book revolves around a black and white French Bulldog and includes unique and colourful mixed media collages.

It also aims to bring empathy for animals in the minds of children. "In India, children are taught from a young age to be afraid of dogs and that dogs are inferior to us. As there are many street dogs in India it is thought to be dangerous. But the real danger is for the street dogs who get mistreated by people all over India," she said. With her work, she intends to teach children to be kind to animals of all kinds.

SCULPTURE SERIES 

She is involved in a conceptual Fine artwork dealing with concepts of self-confidence and the role the society plays in it. It explores the challenges of being a woman in India, having to live up to certain standards of beauty as well as character. India having a patriarchal society, does not take women's opinions seriously, she feels.

"The sculpture series is a box sculpture that requires the viewer to look inside the box through holes (like looking inside my head) and the figure inside signifies my insecurities which have been created in my mind by the society," she added.

Here is the link to the artwork

TABOOS 

This artwork deals with the taboos about menstruation. "For millions of women in India, the stigma around menstruation and the myths surrounding it lead to serious health and mental problems, social isolation to reproductive problems. This is something that is not talked about openly," Tanya said.