We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Vasu Tolia a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Vasu, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
Reflecting on my journey as a retired brown immigrant woman physician, who transitioned from academia to artistry, I realize that being effective and successful in spaces where I was often the only one who looked like me has been a multifaceted exploration. My career spanned tenured professorship, mentorship, research endeavors, and now artistic expression, each phase demanding resilience and a relentless pursuit of excellence. In academia, achieving a work-life balance required intricate maneuvering. Long, flexible hours that often extended to 60-70 hour workweeks were the norm. As a professor, the role transcended a mere profession; it became an integral part of my identity. The pursuit of knowledge, nurturing young minds, and conducting impactful research came together to create a symphony of purpose. The title of “professor” was not just a job but a vocation that permeated every fiber of my being. Despite the immense satisfaction of mentoring students and contributing to scholarly exploration, the tenure track was relentless, with constant pressure to publish, secure grants, and excel in clinical care and teaching.
Deciding to leave academia and trade my lab coat for a paintbrush was not a rejection of intellectual pursuits but a quest for a different kind of balance. In the realm of artistic expression, I found a new harmony between passion and pragmatism. This transition marked a shift from the pursuit of perfection to the acceptance of imperfection—a journey towards self-compassion and authenticity.
Every day brings new challenges and aspirations, but I find comfort in my journey as a brown immigrant woman with many roles. Each role is intertwined in a rich mosaic of being me, each tile telling a narrative of resilience, determination, and persistence. The transition from the rigor of medical academia to the expressive freedom of artistry has reinforced that true fulfillment stems from pursuing endeavors that ignite both passion and purpose.
As I continue to navigate this new chapter, I carry with me the understanding that dedication beyond conventional boundaries is essential for both academic and artistic pursuits. Within this dedication lies the essence of fulfillment and the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy of influence and inspiration. In essence, whether as a pioneering woman in academia or as an artist charting new creative territories, the journey of effectiveness and success lies in embracing the fluidity of life’s complexities, finding joy in the pursuit of passion, and allowing oneself to navigate the ebbs and flows of the human experience gracefully. My journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the beauty of embracing one’s unique path.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
My art is a vibrant dance between uplifting stories, social awareness, and the freedom of exploration. I create pieces that burst with color, each one aiming to empower the viewer and spark positive change in the world. For a while, I explored the realm of representational art, but lately, I am pulled towards abstraction and semi-abstraction. It allows me to delve deeper into themes that resonate with me, using a beautiful blend of materials like acrylics, ink, papers and charcoal. My goal is to ignite curiosity, to plant a seed of wonder in the minds of those who encounter my work. Just as importantly, I want to give myself the freedom to express myself authentically, allowing viewers the space to find their own interpretations within my creations.
My passion extends far beyond the canvas. I’m deeply committed to using my art as a tool for empowerment, particularly for women and other vulnerable groups. Protecting our environment and advocating for improved mental health research are also close to my heart. Healing, both of the mind and body, is a driving force behind my work. That’s why you’ll often find my art in hospitals, lounges, and waiting rooms – spaces where a calming presence can make a big difference.
My commitment goes beyond creating uplifting art. I actively donate pieces to fundraising events, and a portion of every sale on my website goes directly to one of the three charities I currently support. I’m always open to collaborating with organizations that align with my missions.
As an artist, I believe in constant growth and exploration. Participating in group shows and competitions keeps me on my toes, showcasing the evolution of my art and allowing me to connect with other creative minds. Recently, something fascinating has been happening in my work – eyes keep emerging, often without any conscious planning. I believe this symbolizes a calling to emphasize the importance of meaningful observation, allowing the art to communicate deeper truths without the need for excessive verbalization. I see this as a powerful call to convey the need to observe the world more meaningfully, to truly see before we speak.
Speaking of forthcoming exhibitions, I’m incredibly excited about my upcoming solo show, “Diverse Visions: Abstract Realms,” at the Livonia Fine Arts Gallery in August 2024. This exhibit will be a captivating journey through form, color, and emotion. Imagine figures morphing, colors dancing, and eyes speaking volumes – all brought to life through a stunning display of acrylic and mixed media pieces. Get ready to witness the convergence of abstraction, vibrant hues, and the enigmatic gaze!
Additionally, I am privileged to be a member of the WHO online gallery, where my artworks related to COVID-19 and other missions are on display. This platform allows my work to reach a global audience and contribute to important conversations around health and wellbeing. I have been invited to give a talk for WHO Art Gallery Webinar Series on Oct 24, 2024 on Art & Neurodivergent Populations.
But art is more than just self-expression for me. It’s about fostering a sense of community and connection. That’s why I’m a proud member of a unique “Kindness Circle.” Every month, like-minded individuals come together on Zoom to share experiences of kindness, exchange resources, and participate in activities that promote compassion in our personal and professional lives. In a world that often feels divided, the power of kindness is more important than ever.
Through Vasutolia Fineart, I’ve created a space where “Art Heals, Empowers, and Uplifts.” Here, you’ll discover vibrant, socially conscious artworks that celebrate the beauty of women, nature, and the human experience. Each piece is an authentic expression, crafted with passion and purpose. From empowering figurative works to soulful abstract renditions, my art offers a gateway to emotional healing, motivation, and self-transcendence. When you invest in my original art, you’re not just adorning your space with beauty, you’re contributing to a greater cause. With a portion of the proceeds going to charities of your choice, you have the power to make a real difference.
This is my story woven with vibrant colors, a deep commitment to social good, and a relentless pursuit of artistic exploration. I am continually inspired by the impact art can have on individuals and communities. As I look to the future, I am eager to explore new themes, techniques, and collaborations that align with my mission. I invite you to join me on this journey, whether by attending my exhibitions, supporting my causes, or simply engaging with my art. Join me on this journey, and let’s see where the power of art can take us. Together, we can make a meaningful difference through creativity and compassion.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
On my constantly evolving journey, if I were to identify three areas that have been critical to my development and progress, they would be: resilience, ongoing learning and communication skills.
One of the most impactful factors in my life has been resilience. The ability to bounce back from setbacks and persist through challenges has been crucial. In academia, I faced numerous rejections, harsh critiques, and the pressure of constant evaluation. As an artist, there were times when my work was not understood or appreciated, and I had to deal with creative blocks. Staying resilient helped me navigate these tough periods and come out stronger. In any long-term endeavor, there are always obstacles, and being able to maintain a positive outlook and adapt to changing circumstances has made all the difference.
The willingness and enthusiasm to keep learning has been second key area to focus on. In my academic career, staying updated with the latest research, learning new methodologies, and engaging in interdisciplinary studies broadened my understanding and opened up new avenues. I’ve always been driven by an intense curiosity to understand the world around me and continually expand my knowledge. creativity and keep my work evolving. This thirst for knowledge fuels a desire to continually expand my understanding across multiple disciplines.
As an artist, experimenting with different mediums, techniques, and styles enrich my portfolio and reflect on my ongoing evolution. The world and technology are evolving rapidly, to remain relevant, I try to stay adaptable, capable of swiftly acquiring new knowledge and seamlessly integrate it with my existing framework.
The third core area has been networking and building strong relationships. Connecting with others in my field and beyond has opened up opportunities, provided new insights, and offered support and collaboration when needed. Strong relationships can lead to mentorship, partnerships, and friendships that have enriched both my personal and professional life. To convey ideas clearly and listen actively has been very important for achieving these goals. As an academic, presenting research findings, writing papers, and teaching required clear and effective communication. As an artist, expressing the vision behind my work, engaging with my audience, and networking with fellow artists and curators is crucial. Being an introvert, I have to work at honing communication skills. Writing is much easier, but to deliver verbally is an art. I try to clearly articulate ideas, explain complex concepts simply, and adapt my communication style for different audiences. It has enabled me to share what I’ve learned in ways that resonate with and help others.
For those just starting out, my tips would be to focus on developing these qualities by setting clear, achievable goals, staying open to new experiences, and continually seeking ways to improve. Embrace challenges, learn from every experience, and communicate effectively to build strong relationships and networks. In both academia and the arts, these qualities will help you navigate the ups and downs of your journey and achieve meaningful success. To build resilience, embrace failures as learning opportunities. In academia, revise and resubmit papers, apply for grants repeatedly, and don’t be disheartened by rejections. As an artist, view every critique as a chance to improve, and keep creating even when inspiration is low. Additionally, I’d suggest starting out on this journey with patience, diligence, and integrity. Transformative learning is an ongoing commitment of time and effort with no shortcuts. Remain focused on this long journey through challenges. And always strive to learn and use knowledge responsibly in service to benefit humanity.
Practice mindfulness and maintain a positive mindset to help you stay resilient. Surround yourself with a supportive network of friends, family, and mentors who can provide encouragement during tough times. Additionally, set small, achievable goals to build confidence and gradually take on bigger challenges.
By prioritizing these areas, you can establish a strong foundation for success on your unique and fulfilling journey. Ultimately, a blend of curiosity, analytical rigor, positive attitude, strong communication and humility will enable you to acquire knowledge effectively and have a lasting positive impact by sharing that knowledge with others. The journey is arduous but immensely rewarding.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
I feel incredibly fortunate to share this glimpse into my childhood and the profound impact my parents had on my life. Growing up in Kolkata with my three brothers, I was the third of four siblings, with my youngest brother being ten years younger than me. Our family was tight-knit and deeply supportive. My parents, now both deceased, left an indelible mark on who I am today. My mother passed away in 1999, and my father in 2011, but their legacy continues to live on in me, and I cherish the memories we created together.
Our home was a haven for education. Everything seemed effortless, yet looking back, I recognize the relentless hard work behind it. Dad, the breadwinner, tirelessly provided for us, while Mom dedicated herself to enriching our lives. While societal expectations may have steered her away from a formal teaching role, she became our daily tutor, patiently teaching us not just academics, but ways of life. My Dad taught us english grammar and math during his morning routine.
One of the best things my parents did for me was to cultivate my love of reading and learning. My mother, a highly educated woman with two college degrees—a rare feat in pre-independence India—instilled in me a strong desire to read, learn, and write from a very young age. Growing up, I didn’t have professional role models to look up to directly. However, my mother’s belief that women should be self-reliant and capable of supporting themselves rather than just being a sidekick. I admired how she wished she could have been more independent herself.
I distinctly remember an incident from seventh grade when I was studying Africa for geography class. My mother provided additional information beyond the textbook, but my teacher did not appreciate a student knowing more than she did. My mother’s response was simple yet profound: “You are learning more for your knowledge, so don’t let the teacher’s attitude worry you.” This taught me the importance of learning for the sake of knowledge itself, not just for grades or approval.
Our middle-class family lived comfortably within our means, creating magnificent memories despite not taking huge vacations. Family bonds were also a priority. Every winter break, we’d travel to our native Rajkot, connecting with relatives and learning firsthand the meaning of love and connection. My mother took us on trips several times without my father, who was dedicated to his social work of building colleges and schools. Though not overtly religious, we were a spiritual family, expressing gratitude through simple prayers. Holidays were joyous occasions, fun-filled with car trips, gatherings with friends, and impromptu singalongs.
My parents also introduced me to the arts. I learned some classical Indian dancing and dabbled in playing the sitar. Although I sometimes wish they had pressured me into continuing these pursuits, I appreciate that they never forced anything upon me, allowing me to explore my interests freely. They let me discover and nurture my own passions. Although I had no exposure to visual arts in my early life, my mother’s later embrace of art left a significant impression on me.
As a bit of a loner in my younger years, I found solace in my dolls and Mom’s constant companionship. She was always kind and instilled the golden rule: treat others as you wish to be treated. Witnessing her compassion towards everyone, from our household staff to those in need, left a lasting impression.
My parents championed our individual career aspirations. My brothers pursued business and engineering, while I went to medical school. My oldest brother, passionate about cricket, was supported wholeheartedly by our parents and went on to play for India – a matter of immense pride for our family.
My upbringing in a land rich in cultural heritage, surrounded by multiple languages, religions and tolerance, has shaped my worldview. My parents taught me to be proud of who I am, a lesson that was particularly valuable when I migrated to the USA and faced the challenges of looking and sounding different. Even after I moved to the USA, my parents continued to play a vital role in my life, always there to listen and offer advice.
Most fascinatingly, art became Mom’s sanctuary in her later years. Lost in the world of color and form, her vibrant drawings were a testament to the healing power of creativity, a concept she embraced long before it became mainstream. I still have her beautiful drawings, which are like small studies before executing bigger projects. These cherished drawings serve as a reminder of her artistic spark and the importance of nurturing creativity at any stage in life.
I feel extremely fortunate to have had parents who imparted such meaningful life lessons during my childhood. Even though they are no longer with us, the wisdom and values they instilled in me continue to guide me every day. Their emphasis on education, kindness, cultural appreciation, and staying true to oneself has shaped my core principles. With a family of my own, I strive to instill these same values in my children and grandchildren. Their unwavering support, love of learning, and belief in the power of creativity are their true legacies – and I’m proud to share them with the world.
Contact Info:
- Website: vasutolia.art
- Instagram: @toliavasu
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vasutolia
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vasundhara-tolia-79695a34/
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/vasutolia/
Image Credits
They are my images
