In a world where art often reflects the deepest corners of our emotions, Harshanisha Pareian’s work stands as a testament to the power of healing, transformation, and personal growth. Currently pursuing her Master’s in Development Policy at KDIS, Harshanisha has become a passionate artist, intertwining her personal experiences with her creative expression. Recently, her artwork was showcased as part of the International Women’s Day celebration, where it captured the attention of the KDIS community for its depth, symbolism, and emotional resonance.

Harshanisha's journey into the world of art has been anything but ordinary. Born and raised in India, she faced a difficult and abusive childhood, one that pushed her to find solace in drawing. "Art has always been a source of healing for me," she shares. "Growing up, I faced many challenges, and drawing was my way of coping—whenever I felt sad or lost, I would pick up a pen and let my emotions flow onto the paper." It is this deeply personal relationship with art that has shaped Harshanisha’s work, turning it into a powerful tool for self-expression and healing.

Her black pen art, which she has been honing for over 20 years, is characterized by intricate patterns and bold lines. Harshanisha does not follow a strict conceptualization process; instead, she lets the drawing evolve organically. "I simply start drawing and make adjustments along the way," she explains. This process mirrors her journey through life—unpredictable, yet full of potential for change and growth.

Her recent piece, displayed on International Women’s Day (March 8th), is particularly significant in its portrayal of resilience. "This artwork represents the journey of pain, resilience, and hope," Harshanisha says. Inspired by the experiences of orphaned children and survivors of abuse, the piece delves into the emotional turmoil that these individuals face. "I wanted to represent how those who have been abandoned, hurt, and left to question whether happiness is ever possible can still find a way forward," she adds.

The piece is complex and layered, much like the emotional experiences of those it seeks to represent. At first glance, the swirling patterns and chaotic lines might appear overwhelming, symbolizing the intense struggles these children endure. However, upon closer inspection, there is a sense of flow and movement, reflecting the possibility of transformation even in the midst of pain. The curves and patterns that seem tangled at first ultimately come together to form something beautiful. This symbolizes the idea that no matter how difficult life may seem, there is always a path forward, a journey toward healing and a brighter future.

What sets Harshanisha’s work apart is its deep connection to her cultural roots. Raised in India, a country rich in artistic traditions, Harshanisha draws inspiration from ancient forms of Indian art, such as Mandalas and Mehndi. The intricate, circular patterns and symbolism of these traditional art forms have heavily influenced her personal style. The patterns in her artwork, which include leaves, flower petals, and other organic shapes, represent femininity—the delicate yet powerful nature of women. “The soft curves in my piece embody women’s strength, resilience, and capacity to nurture and heal,” she explains. These organic shapes are more than mere decorations; they serve as metaphors for the enduring spirit of women, symbolizing their ability to transform pain into strength and beauty.

For Harshanisha, her artwork is more than just a creative outlet; it is a way to honor the women who have shaped her life. When asked about her personal inspiration, she points to her grandmother. "My grandmother is my greatest inspiration," she says. "Her resilience, kindness, and unwavering love have taught me the true meaning of selflessness and care. She is the most pious and selfless person I have ever known." It is clear that her grandmother’s influence runs deep in Harshanisha’s work, which reflects the same qualities of love, patience, and strength.

Balancing academic demands with her artistic pursuits has not always been easy. As a student at KDIS, Harshanisha finds that making time for her creative projects can be challenging, but it is something she prioritizes. "If something is important to you, you will always make time for it," she says. Her commitment to both her studies and art reflects a deep understanding of the importance of creativity in personal and professional growth. "Creativity enhances problem-solving skills," she adds. "A creative thinker can come up with multiple solutions and adapt when things don’t go as planned. It also teaches resilience—the ability to start over and explore new possibilities."

Looking ahead, Harshanisha is unsure whether she will continue to pursue artistic projects alongside her future career in policy. "My career development will demand most of my time," she admits. "However, I will always try to make time to attend art exhibitions and see if I can still continue my projects." Regardless of where her career takes her, it is clear that art will remain an integral part of her life. Harshanisha’s work is a powerful reminder that art can transcend the boundaries of pain and lead us toward healing and transformation. Her personal journey, marked by resilience and growth, is reflected in every intricate line of her artwork.