she, who is like a river: Kanchan Chander (Online)

she, who is like a river, an online only show on Artsy of works by Kanchan Chander, showcased mixed media works that explore the complexity of female identity through personal experiences. The female figures in her pieces—representing her mother, sister, and herself—evolve from earlier themes of vulnerability and oppression to expressions of strength and empowerment. Chander portrays women as goddesses or supreme beings, reflecting a confident and positive transformation. Her use of vibrant colors and composition is reminiscent of Tibetan thangkas, where a central figure is supported by a broader narrative. Influenced by popular culture, cinema, and religious iconography, Chander blends these elements to create a dynamic portrayal of womanhood. As the daughter of a diplomat, her ability to adapt to constant change shaped her artistic approach, with Chander describing herself as “like a river” that absorbs and discards elements from its surroundings. Through this exhibition, she invites the viewer to see the personal and collective dimensions of female identity, making her intimate reflections resonate universally.

View a virtual walkthrough of the online exhibition HERE