Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Nikita Jain. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Nikita, you’ve got such an interesting story, but before we jump into that, let’s first talk about a topic near and dear to us – generosity. We think success, happiness and wellbeing depends on authentic generosity and empathy and so we’d love to hear about how you become such a generous person – where do you think your generosity comes from?
My generosity is deeply rooted in my upbringing in a traditional Indian joint family, where I lived with 13 family members. Growing up in such a close-knit environment taught me the values of consideration, generosity, and thoughtfulness. Being part of a large family helped develop an empathetic approach in me, as it was essential to be mindful of everyone’s preferences and needs alongside your own.
This foundation of community and sharing extended into my professional life. Working with indigenous craftspeople across India allowed me to both teach and learn, fostering a spirit of mutual generosity and collaboration. This experience reinforced my belief in the power of sharing knowledge and skills.
After moving to New York, I encountered a diverse group of creative artists from around the world. Their willingness to share their skills and experiences has profoundly influenced me as an artist. Learning from others, respecting diverse backgrounds and past experiences, and collaborating creatively are all practices rooted in generosity. This has instilled in me a strong desire to give back to the community that has enriched me in various ways. Sharing, I believe, is a fundamental aspect of generosity, and it has been both a personal and professional guiding principle for me.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I am Nikita Jain, an Indian textile artist, designer and natural dyer currently based in New York. My passion lies at the intersection of textile art and sustainability, where I utilize my skills to create pieces that not only resonate with cultural significance but also promote environmental consciousness. Currently pursuing my MFA in Textiles at Parsons School of Design, my work integrates traditional methods of patchwork technique with innovative approaches to material use, such as repurposing food and temple waste. My creations are more than just textiles; they are narratives woven into the fabric of memory, culture, and sustainability, highlighting the communal essence of spaces like ‘home.’ I focus on using naturally dyed mill waste fabrics to construct intricate patchwork draperies that embody various forms of emotions and memories. This process not only challenges overconsumption in textile production but also cherishes every bit of available material, ensuring a no-waste outcome.
Aside from my artistic practice, I founded Dhari Studio, an eco-conscious creative agency that specializes in small-batch production of unique, seasonless clothing, accessories and textile art. Dhari Studio emphasizes the use of flower and food waste for eco printing and bundle dyeing, offering a sustainable alternative to synthetic chemical dyes.
Currently, I am delving into the art of abstraction and expression, exploring how textiles can convey deeper emotional undertones and foster a visceral connection with the audience. Through my work and practice, I aim to contribute to a more sustainable and ethically conscious fashion and art industry, continuously learning and evolving in my craft while sharing this knowledge with others to foster a wider impact.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on my journey as a textile artist and natural dyer, the three most impactful areas that have shaped my path are empathy, innovation in artistry, and collaboration. 1. Empathy: Growing up in a large family and engaging with diverse communities has heightened my ability to connect deeply with others, enriching my art and making it more resonant.
2. Innovation in Artistry: My use of repurposed materials and exploration of new techniques have driven me to create unique, impactful textiles that push traditional boundaries.
3. Collaboration: Working alongside indigenous craftspeople and skilled artisans has amplified my learning and creativity, highlighting the value of shared knowledge.
Advice for New Artists: To develop these key areas, immerse yourself in diverse environments, participate actively in workshops and collaborations, and stay open to learning from every experience. It is very important to pause and reflect every once in a while. Embrace continuous reflection to allow your interactions to evolve your artistic practice. All of this while taking care of your mind and body.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
Yes, I am always open to exploring new collaborations, particularly with individuals from diverse artistic backgrounds who share a passion for sustainable practices and innovative artistry. I’m especially interested in collaborating on projects that involve soft sculpture, large-scale installations, and natural material research. I value multidisciplinary approaches that bring together different perspectives and skills. If you are an artist, designer, researcher, or anyone interested in working together on such projects, please feel free to connect with me. The best way to reach out is by sending an email to [email protected]. You can also follow and message me on Instagram at @Dhari.studio. I look forward to the possibility of collaborating and creating something impactful together.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://nikitajaindhari.myportfolio.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dhari.studio?igsh=eTJ0MTBqcjFrc3Ez
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikitajainnj/
Image Credits
Jason Phillip Greenberg (Parallel Play Studio) Sristhi Tamanna
