Artist and sculptor, Pooja Pawaskar, grew up in Mumbai, deeply influenced by her grandfather’s craftsmanship. A trained carpenter and model maker, it was his mastery over woodwork that sparked her interest in the field of design, something that guides her creativity till date. Her love for design and brilliant technique found its way into her own practice. Driven by a fascination with design, Pooja studied architecture at Mumbai University, however, it wasn’t until her final year, her passion for building furniture was unearthed. This realisation inspired her to shift gears and apply for a furniture design program at the Savannah College of Art and Design.
Popularly also known as Whirl and Whittle, Pooja’s practice aims at embracing imperfections and cherishing one’s own unique identity. ‘Through my wood sculptures, I express the beauty of imperfection and the artistry of nature’s quirks. I believe in the power of self-acceptance and use design to encourage individuals to find beauty within themselves and their journey. My pieces are a reminder that flaws are what make us beautifully human.’ She crafts wooden, stone and ceramic pieces, which celebrate the inherent beauty in each object’s peculiarities.
For pieces as dynamic and contemporary as hers, there is always a fine line that exists between the aesthetic and the functionality of an object and to be able to tread on that is something she defines as the cornerstone of her practice. ‘The function of my sculptures goes beyond the surface – it’s about sparking conversations about our perception of beauty and the journey towards self-acceptance for a fulfilled life. This unconventional perspective on function is essential, particularly in today’s world, where standardised beauty norms often overshadow individual uniqueness.’
Currently occupied with her collection, In The Gaps Left Behind, she has created a set of interactive pieces that not only come to life but also indulge in a little dance before settling right in. ‘This interactive element adds a dynamic layer to each piece, creating a conversation between the art and its observer. The inspiration behind these sculptures comes from the transformation of cliff rocks through constant interaction with water, a testament to the beauty of impermanence and adaptation. The collection is a tribute to the passage of time and the allure of imperfections captured through intricately carved forms.’
This is an all exclusive excerpt from our Bookazine. To read the entire article, grab your copy here.
Words Unnati Saini
Date 26.04.2024