Amrit Singh Sandhu
Amrit Singh Sandhu’s works are an eclectic dive into the world of modern styles imbued with colours and patterns. They simulate the vibrancy of her hometown, Chandigarh, Punjab. Having traversed continents at the age of 18 to pursue a Bachelor in Fine Arts at Pratt Institute in New York, Sandhu seems to have found solace and comfort in taking inspiration from her Indian roots.
Amrit Singh Sandhu. Photo: Florence Mann.
To find out more about Amrit Sandhu’s practice, please visit her website or Instagram.
An art enthusiast at an early age, Amrit Sandhu says she picked up a paintbrush even before she learned how to walk. She cites how her father - an artist himself, played a pivotal role in nurturing her creative process. However, the structural confines of her colourful Chandigarh residence in India are what truly pushed Sandhu to explore beyond the ordinary. Whether it was the juxtaposition of the intricately designed upholstery in her home against the stark red oxidised undertone of the flooring or the striking attire worn by the women in her family, Amrit’s works often form a parallel between the personal and the external. She seems to be focused on capturing the banalities of a home environment and utilises her childhood photos as references.
Different day, same thoughts. Oil on panel, 8 in. x 10 in.
A compelling element that strings together Sandhu’s works is the elongated, spear-like rendering of the noses and the subtle and not-so-subtle sense of distortion repeatedly seen. An apparent characteristic of the Picasso era, Amrit fervently elucidates how it heightened her visualising approach to breaking down perspectives. Even so, the artworks still seem to imbibe the Indianness within her. Each portrait and figure is an avatar of the artist herself. Disguised under a ‘’veil’ of emotions, these characters personify Sandhu’s internal struggles, not just those developed through navigating life but also those presented by her upbringing in a conservative society.
Hello ji, sab theek? Oil on canvas 78 in. x 60 in.
Hello Ji, Sab Theek(translated to: ‘’Hello Sir/Madam, all good?’’) visually explores this puzzle. Two rows of three women systematically seated and dressed in shalwar suits nonchalantly gaze directly toward the viewers. While some respectfully have their heads covered with a scarf or ‘’dupatta,’’ others don’t seem to adhere to the customary traditions. This raises questions about the contrast between the West and the East, and individualism versus conformity, indicating how Sandhu is constantly torn between two worlds. The figures’ postural mannerisms and expressive faces further explicate the mundane task they are performing. They seem to be interrupted by a daily schedule they follow religiously.
My parent’s new curtains. Coloured pencils on paper, 8 in. x 6 in.
Consequently, Amrit Sandhu strives to infuse significance into the monotony of day-to-day existence and her routine internal struggles. But more than that, her works are a universal reminder that beauty is abundant. For example, My parent’s new curtains celebrates the feeling of nostalgia. It preserves a fleeting moment engulfed by the simple joys of purchasing something new. Again, Sandhu does not fail to present the audience with a depiction of marvellous shades and patterns, all blending in harmony. Not to miss the unconventional use of coloured pencils, which Sandhu explains was a primaeval impulse that transported her back to her childhood.
Tank top from the series I drew on my shirt again. Fabric paints and markers on fabric.
Vogue China Outtakes. Photographed by Petrosstudio.
What initially began as a momentary pass time during the Covid-19 pandemic, Sandhu’s scintillating art has expanded to include clothing. Currently pursuing freelance work, Sandhu’s beautiful creations are available for purchase on her Instagram. In addition to integrating her art with fashion, she continues honing her painting and sketching skills. She recently launched JAAM publication with her partner Jacob Clayton; it is a platform that fosters collaborations between emerging artists and aims to make art affordable and accessible to everyone.
Tanisha Virendra
Emerging Artist Co-Editor, MADE IN BED
