Sakshi Agarwal
Location
New Delhi, India
About
Sakshi Agarwal is a ceramist and industrial designer from New Delhi. She holds a Bachelor's
in Design, (2008) and pursued her Master's in Industrial Design from Scuola Politecnica Di
Design, Italy (2016). With a solid foundation in professional design, Sakshi dedicated herself
to ceramics in 2017, honing her skills at Blue Turtle Studio under the mentorship of Indian
artist Madhur Sen.
Her work uniquely blends wheel-thrown and hand-built techniques, achieving a harmonious
balance between positive and negative spaces. These dynamic forms are adorned with
intricate two-dimensional patterns, transforming the perception of the shapes, much like a
tapestry or architectural grids.
Sakshi has exhibited her work in numerous group exhibitions, both online and offline. In
2024, she completed a prestigious ceramic residency program at Taoxichuan International
Studio in China. Among her notable achievements is winning the Excellence Award at the
Shiwan Cup 12th Annual International Youth Ceramic Art Competition (2024). Additionally,
she has also contributed to community projects with the Indian Ceramic Triennale at the
India Art Fair.
Her work has been showcased in esteemed galleries such as Guangdong Shiwan Ceramics
Museum (China), Quimo Art Gallery (China), Kalakriti Art Gallery, India Habitat Center,
Kanoria Art Center, Triveni Gallery, and Bikaner House (Delhi)
Artist Statement
In this demonstration, I will illustrate the creation of Bidriware-style pieces using a carving
technique, inspired by the traditional craft of southern India. Bidriware, known for its striking
contrast of silvery patterns against dark backgrounds, embodies the concept of "beauty in
contrast." Traditionally, this art form involves encrusting gold or silver onto metal objects to
create stunning visual contrasts.
Starting with a ready wheel-thrown form in the leather-hard stage, the demonstration will cover
the process of applying multiple layers of dark-colored slip, preparing a canvas for artistic
expression. Using the ancient sgraffito technique of "scratching away", I will show how to
transfer 2D patterns onto 3D surfaces. Patterns will be initially outlined with a pencil or needle,
utilizing templates, scales, or freehand drawings. These patterns will drape across the forms,
altering their perception like tapestry or grids.
The carving process involves meticulously scraping away the negative layer of the design using a
fine wire tool. Patterns, inspired by everyday designs and cultural heritage, range from triangles
and lines to intricate motifs. The works are crafted using stoneware clay with high-temperature
slip, the works are high-fired to cone 9 (1280°C) in gas kiln.
This demonstration aims to merge traditional craftsmanship with contemporary art, infusing
ceramics with abstract designs while preserving the essence of Bidri art traditions.