Interview: Bharti Prajapati

After working for ten years as a textile designer, Bharti Prajapati returned to a longtime passion — painting. Now an established contemporary Indian artist, Bharti frequently depicts women from the villages in India, who she first encountered while studying design at the prestigious National Institute of Design. These tribals inspired her overall outlook on art and life, as they treated craft and design as intrinsic parts of their day-to-day. Immersing herself in this ‘real India’ helped Bharti understand her roots, culture and heritage, and today she strives to share this insight through her paintings.

I first met Bharti in 2013 during the launch of her ‘Devi’ series at Jehangir Art gallery in Mumbai. Since then, having been exposed to her repertoire of work, I have been particularly drawn to her ‘Earth’ and ‘One Tribe’ series. Her paintings are rooted in Indian culture and traditions, yet very contemporary in their treatment. The depiction of colorful textiles in her paintings make them truly stunning, and her use of oil paint adds another element of richness.

Excerpts from my interview with Bharti Prajapati

Sonia: How would you describe yourself as a person and an artist?
Bharti: I am both introspective and extroverted — always thinking creatively. As an artist, I’m rooted and passionate about my ideas.

Your artistic journey began with textile design.
Studying at NID Ahmedabad was a turning point. We traveled across India — Kutch, Telangana, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra — working with craftsmen and learning our cultural roots. That experience shaped my love for art, people, and the country.

What inspires your work?
I began painting instinctively, inspired by village life where art and design were part of daily living. Women became my muse — strong, creative, hardworking, shaping their homes into complete universes. Over time, they emerged in my art as goddess-like figures, proud and powerful.

Tell us about your Earth series.
The series centers on women and the five universal elements — space, air, fire, water, and earth — drawn from Hindu mythology. I use metaphors and symbolism: blue for water, orange and yellow for fire, black skies for destruction and renewal. It reflects our connection with the universe and the cycle of life.

Ref: https://laasyaart.com/