Meet Saloni Parekh

We were lucky to catch up with Saloni Parekh recently and have shared our conversation below.

Saloni, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?

I’ve found that we’re more alike than different. I’m usually absorbed by the big questions that affect all of humanity, so the smaller differences barely register. Art is the reason I’m here in the United States, and my laser focus is on creating. I’m giving it my all because, honestly, if I wanted an easy life or perhaps life without art, I’d have stayed home where the food is so delicious and the rent’s cheaper!

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

​Saloni Parekh, originally from India, relocated to the United States in 2017. She is a Visual Artist and a Visiting Assistant Professor at Oberlin College, Ohio. She recently earned her MFA degree from the University of Tennessee. In 2015, Saloni obtained her bachelor’s degree in Physics, followed by a B.F.A in painting from Kent State University, Ohio, in 2020. Her artistic practice spans across a range of media, including painting, video, and sound. Her art explores the intricate aspects of the term ‘god,’ recognizing its historical, mnemonic, and emotional significance. She delves into the consistencies present in religion while also addressing the inconsistencies that contribute to societal divisions. Parekh’s artistic endeavors have been showcased in numerous institutions, including the Tennessee Valley Arts Museum, Tri Star Arts, and the Elaine Bailey Augustine Art Gallery at the University of Northern Alabama. Currently, she is diligently preparing for an upcoming exhibition at the CICA Museum in South Korea.​

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

My mentors often emphasized that our studio is not confined to a physical space; it extends wherever we go. Whether I’m eating, sleeping, or drinking, thoughts of my work fill me with joy and a longing to return to painting the next day.
Being honest about my intentions, goals and honesty in my efforts is crucial.
I embrace the fact that I know nothing so the curiosity of knowing something is always there. Giving your time, honesty, and utmost curiosity to your work has helped me immensely, and I would advise the same to those early in their journey.

Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?

The best decision I’ve made so far in my life was going to grad school at the University of Tennessee. I’ve had amazing mentors guiding me along the way. The transformation I went through from my first day to my last wouldn’t have been possible without them. I owe so much to my parents and my mentors.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.saloniprakash.com/
• Instagram: saloniparekhart

Image Credits

Bruce Cole