Deeply inspired by the rich traditions and everyday intricacies of Indian culture, Sugandh’s work transforms overlooked symbols into bold, wearable narratives. Through jewellery, stories of identity, inclusivity, and resilience are crafted, bridging the gap between the traditional and the modern. This interview explores the inspirations, techniques, and philosophies that shape a practice dedicated to celebrating heritage while breaking creative boundaries.
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How has your upbringing and cultural background influenced your artistic journey and creative expression?
My upbringing in India, surrounded by a rich cultural tapestry of traditions, rituals, and celebrations, profoundly shaped my artistic perspective. Growing up, I was deeply immersed in observing the rich cultural tapestry of India, from everyday rituals to elaborate celebrations—the ornate patterns of architecture, the vibrant hues of festivals, and the craftsmanship embedded in everyday objects. These cultural elements taught me to see beauty in the ordinary and significance in what might otherwise be overlooked. Moving to London for my studies at Central Saint Martins expanded this lens, allowing me to view my roots through a new, reactive perspective by exploring the intersection of art and psychology, particularly how the subconscious mind reacts to culture.
This duality—being anchored in tradition yet exposed to innovation—has been instrumental in shaping my jewellery practice. It has allowed me to celebrate cultural heritage while breaking barriers of conventional design. I often explore unconscious biases within cultures, translating them into bold, meaningful jewellery that inspires others to see cultural heritage not as a limitation but as a superpower. I wish to encourage wearers to draw strength from the aspects of their upbringing, showing that you can be modern while proudly holding on to your roots. My work strives to tell personal and universal stories, bridging the gap between tradition and contemporary expression.
Describe your quest for uniqueness in your art. How do you distinguish your work from others?
The quest for uniqueness in my art is driven by my exploration of identity, culture, and psychology. What distinguishes my work is the way I delve into the subtleties of cultural narratives—particularly the unconscious biases embedded within them—and translate these ideas into tangible, wearable designs. I focus on elevating the ordinary aspects of culture, turning overlooked symbols and traditions into bold, contemporary statements that resonate universally.
My creative process is deeply introspective, drawing from personal experiences and collective cultural memories. I aim to craft jewellery that transcends adornment, becoming vessels for storytelling and self-expression. By combining techniques inspired by traditional craftsmanship with modern forms, I create pieces that are timeless yet boundary-crossing. My goal is to challenge the notion that modernity necessitates detachment from heritage and to encourage people to see their roots as a source of strength and individuality.
Delve into the concept of destiny vs. choice in finding one's passion in art. Do you believe that your passion for art was predestined, or was it a choice you consciously made? Can you share experiences that led you to this belief?
I believe my passion for art is the result of both destiny and choice. From an early age, I found myself drawn to creative expression—an inclination that felt natural, almost as though it was predestined. My childhood memories are lled with moments of quiet fascination: watching my grandmother's hands skillfully embroider intricate patterns, or my mother putting her heart and soul in designing the interiors of our home. These experiences planted a seed, nurturing a connection to craftsmanship that would only deepen over time.
However, it was the choices I made along my journey that allowed this passion to evolve. Deciding to study design at National Institute of Fashion Technology in India and then later for my masters at Central Saint Martins was one such dening choice. It exposed me to an entirely new world of design, giving me the tools to push boundaries and approach jewellery as a medium for storytelling. There was a pivotal moment during my studies when I realized that jewellery could be more than just adornment; it could challenge perceptions, bridge cultural divides, and inspire connection. That moment felt serendipitous, like uncovering a path I was always meant to walk. But it was also a conscious choice to pursue this path with dedication, transforming a passion into purpose.
Discuss the importance of messaging in your art and the audience’s understanding of it. How crucial is it for your audience to grasp the message behind your artwork? Do you create with a specific message in mind, and how do you gauge its reception?
Messaging is integral to my art because my work goes beyond aesthetic appeal; it carries a narrative. I create jewellery that speaks to themes of cultural awareness, identity, and inclusivity. While I design with a specic message in mind, I also leave room for personal interpretation. I believe the beauty of art lies in its ability to evoke emotions and connect with people on a personal level, even if their understanding of the message varies. For me, success lies in sparking curiosity and dialogue. Whether someone resonates with the cultural symbolism, the bold design, or the story behind the piece, I see it as a connection made. Feedback from exhibitions often helps me gauge reception. When someone shares how a design reminded them of their heritage or allowed them to see their culture dierently, it rearms the impact of my work.
Discuss your methods for entering a creative state of mind. What specic techniques or practices do you use to get into the right mindset for creating art? Do you have any rituals, routines, or a particular environment that helps stimulate your creativity?
My creative process is deeply reflective, so I rely on quietude and observation to enter the right state of mind. I often start by immersing myself in my surroundings—whether it’s sketching details I notice on a walk or reflecting on memories from my upbringing. Music also plays an important role; certain instrumental pieces help me detach from distractions and ow into a space of creativity. I keep a journal to document thoughts, ideas, and sketches, and I often revisit it when I feel creatively blocked. My studio environment is a sanctuary where I surround myself with books on art, psychology, and culture, as well as materials that inspire me. I also and inspiration in conversations with people from diverse backgrounds, as they oer new perspectives that challenge my thinking.
Reflect on your favourite creation and the reasons behind your choice. Could you tell us about your favourite piece that you have created? What makes this piece particularly significant to you, and what was the inspiration or story behind it?
One of my favourite pieces is the Harmonious Irregularities ring from my Euphonious Seasonality collection. The design draws inspiration from the delicate yet rhythmic structure of rice stems. Looking deep into the rice stem, with each strand perching in a different direction, I found a metaphor for life’s journey: one finds their rhythm when they realize that every step backwards is part of the dance. The ring's form embraces regular irregularities to signify the importance of taking small steps every day—steps that may feel right, wrong, simple, or difficult, but always add dimension to one’s personality.
The Euphonious Seasonality collection epitomizes contemporary luxury, blending the delicate sensibilities of rice across Asia with the fluidity of Kathak, an Indian classical dance form. By reinterpreting grains of rice and hand mudras (gestures) into bold designs, this ring embodies a harmony between the traditional and the modern. It also serves as a tender reminder of my roots—celebrating life’s highs and lows through handcrafted, gold-plated sterling silver creations with warm-toned gemstones. For me, this piece is a reflection of perseverance, balance, and the beauty found in the unexpected irregularities of life.
Describe the elements or aspects of your art that you would communicate to someone unable to see it.
✧ Storytelling: Each piece carries a narrative, often inspired by cultural symbolism, psychology, or personal experiences.
✧ Texture: My jewellery incorporates tactile elements, combining smooth nishes with intricate, handcrafted details that evoke tradition.
✧ Cultural Fusion: My designs bridge the gap between heritage and innovation, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics.
✧ Symbolism: Every shape, pattern, and form holds meaning, encouraging wearers to connect with their own roots and individuality.
✧ Emotion: Beyond aesthetics, my work evokes a sense of nostalgia, curiosity, and pride, oering a deeply personal experience to the wearer.
What are some upcoming projects or plans you are excited about?
My fervent desire is to develop and elevate my design practice, particularly in the realm of jewellery creations, by delving into the intricate nuances of unconscious biases embedded within diverse cultures. As a passionate creator, I am deeply intrigued by the profound impact cultural influences can have on design aesthetics and narratives. I aspire to explore the context of unconscious biases ingrained in various cultures, not only as an intellectually stimulating endeavor but also as a crucial aspect of creating jewellery pieces that resonate with diverse audiences. By infusing these insights into my design process, I aim to create pieces that transcend cultural barriers and foster a deeper connection with individuals from different walks of life. In addition to renting my design practice, I am eager to showcase my work on prominent platforms and exhibitions that align with my vision. Exhibiting at relevant events plays a pivotal role in not only increasing brand awareness but also providing a global platform to share my vision. I am particularly interested in exploring overseas opportunities that would allow me to introduce my creations to a broader audience and contribute to the global dialogue on design, culture, and diversity. I am committed to pushing the boundaries of conventional design, and I believe that through continuous learning, cultural exploration, and meaningful exhibition opportunities, I can make a lasting impact in the world of jewellery design.
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Sugandh’s dedication to crafting pieces that spark introspection and connection makes the work a celebration of individuality and collective heritage. Through thoughtful exploration and bold design, the art invites wearers to embrace the beauty of their own stories, finding strength and meaning in every step of their journey.