Jeena Raghavan's entry into NYC’s art scene: A Fusion of Identity and Expression
The path of an artist is, by necessity, some might say, tangled and toilsome. Jeena Raghavan's path unfolds as a vibrant narrative, weaving through continents and cultures, marked by a relentless pursuit of artistic expression. Born in England, Jeena embarked on her artistic odyssey at a tender age, showcasing an innate talent for painting that would later blossom into a remarkable career.
At the age of six, Jeena's life took a transformative turn as she relocated to India, immersing herself in the rich tapestry of the country's art and heritage. This early exposure laid the foundation for her artistic identity, setting the stage for the fusion of Eastern and Western influences that would define her work.
The young artist's prodigious talent did not go unnoticed, and by the age of 13, she held her first exhibition in London, using her art to contribute to a charitable cause by selling paintings themed around the revered Indian deity, Ganesha.
Jeena's artistic journey reached another milestone when she ventured across the Atlantic to New York, enrolling at the prestigious Parsons School of Design. The bustling metropolis, with its high-velocity environment, became both a challenge and a canvas for her creativity. Undeterred by the complexity of carving a niche for herself in a foreign land, Jeena embraced every moment, turning her struggles into a source of inspiration.
Her engagement with the Agastya International Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to education, exemplifies Jeena's commitment to using art as a catalyst for positive change. Collaborating with the foundation, she played a pivotal role in bringing creative learning to millions of disadvantaged children across India. During the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, Jeena extended her philanthropic efforts, pledging 50% of her art sales to a relief fund aimed at supporting the families of migrant workers severely affected by the crisis.
In the past year, Jeena had a successful run in the New York art scene, with three out of four shows held at Lavan Chelsea, organized by Jake Henzo and Soiree Henzo. Her exhibitions not only showcase her technical prowess but also reflect a deep connection to her roots and a compelling narrative of self-discovery.
Jeena's art is a kaleidoscope of colors and dense patterns, a reflection of her multifaceted identity. Each painting acts as a self-portrait, capturing poignant experiences as she navigates the dynamic intersection of her Indian heritage and the high-paced lifestyle of New York City. Her technique serves as a visual journal, offering a glimpse into her upbringing in England and India, portraying the challenges and triumphs of a young Indian woman creating her space in a foreign land.
A near resolution | 48'' x 60'' (121cm x 152cm) | Acrylic & oil canvas
The theme of her latest group show, 'Vulnerability,' resonated deeply with viewers, drawing attention to her large, evocative paintings. Jeena's love for nature permeates her work, with foxes, bulls, and horses making vivid appearances amidst abstract backgrounds and figurative compositions.
The space itself filled out quickly, as nearly 1500 people attended, with queues spilling further out. Described by one media outlet as a ‘Grassroots Assault on Chelsea’s Elitist Gallery Culture’, the show itself was a hit, as young, talented artists from different backgrounds announced their arrival on a stage hitherto occupied by the incumbent elite.
Looking ahead to 2024, Jeena anticipates a defining chapter in her artistic journey, with two solo shows scheduled in the West Village and Lower East Side in Manhattan. Curated by Katie Mangurian, who appreciates the rawness and genuine quality of Jeena's art, these exhibitions promise to be milestones in her evolving career.
Before I see them | 30'' x 40'' (76cm x 101cm) | Acrylic on canvas
Jeena takes her unquenchable love for art, folds in her unique and multi-cultured life experiences, and wrings out colors, themes, and textures that are truly extraordinary. She likes to experiment with a variety of mixed media to create depth and multiple layers in her work. The product is often the kind of art that mesmerizes, holding the viewers gaze unapologetically, and churning up the sort of inexplicable emotions that only great art has the capacity to invoke.
Photo Credits: Jaime Marrero & Alex Buzunov
To view more work visit: jeenaraghavan.com
