Kirandeep Grewal is a multi-disciplinary artist whose creations are shaped by her global adventures and a profound appreciation for nature. Working from her studio in Canberra, she produces flowing, colorful silk art that captures a sense of movement and light. Inspired by the rich diversity of Australian flora and fauna and her travels abroad, Grewal employs hand-dyeing techniques learned from artisans around the world. Her process emphasizes sustainability, using eco-conscious methods to conserve water and minimize dye waste.
Her silk creations often integrate detailed needlework and freehand machine embroidery, where threads become a core part of the design. This blend of craftsmanship and environmental awareness lends depth and resonance to her work.
In addition to wearable art, Grewal’s portfolio includes textiles, embroidery, and pen-and-ink drawings, each piece serving as a visual narrative that mirrors her personal experiences and observations. Two such works, Soar and Mayura, offer a glimpse into her artistic world.
Soar: A Celebration of Respect and Care
Soar is a textile artwork crafted with hand embroidery on linen, using DMC threads. Framed and compact, measuring 44 x 33 x 2 cm, this 2021 piece carries a profound message about respect and human connection.
The work emerged during the March4Justice movement, a pivotal time that led Grewal to reflect on the word “RESPECT.” For her, respect is rooted in care and the ability to truly listen. The imagery in Soar encapsulates this idea through a heartfelt moment between siblings.
The narrative begins with a younger sibling expressing a desire to ride a “big swing.” The older sibling listens with care, offers support, and empowers the younger sibling to achieve this feat independently. This moment of guidance and encouragement symbolizes giving someone the wings to soar—a metaphor for instilling confidence, belonging, and the belief that they can accomplish anything.
The embroidery’s delicate stitching captures the nuances of this shared moment. Each thread seems to tell part of the story, from the tentative trust to the jubilant realization of independence. The use of linen as a base lends a natural, organic feel to the work, reinforcing the theme of growth and connection. Through Soar, Grewal communicates the simple yet profound ways respect and care can transform relationships and foster personal growth.
Mayura: The Journey of a Lifetime
Mayura, created using pen and ink on archival paper, is a testament to Grewal’s fascination with life’s travels and the stories we carry. This large-scale work, measuring 72 x 91 x 2 cm, features a dancing peacock—a symbol of grace, beauty, and endurance.
The intricate design of Mayura invites viewers to explore its delicate lines and hidden details. The peacock’s tail, rich with patterns, acts as a visual diary, chronicling the miles covered and experiences gained over a lifetime. Each delicate stroke of the pen reflects Grewal’s journey, both literal and metaphorical, as an artist and individual.
The dance of the peacock represents the fluidity of life, moving gracefully through challenges and triumphs. The sweeping, flowing lines of the feathers convey movement and continuity, while the deliberate use of pen and ink highlights precision and permanence.
Grewal’s choice of archival paper ensures the longevity of this work, underscoring the importance of preserving memories and personal history. Through Mayura, she reminds us that life’s journey is not just about reaching destinations but cherishing the moments and stories collected along the way.
Art as a Reflection of Experience
Kirandeep Grewal’s art is deeply personal yet universally relatable. Her ability to weave stories through textiles and visual imagery reflects her thoughtful approach to her craft. Whether through the vibrant, tactile qualities of embroidery or the detailed precision of pen and ink, her works invite viewers to pause, reflect, and connect.
By exploring themes of respect, care, and the passage of time, Grewal creates pieces that resonate on emotional and philosophical levels. Her art is not only a celebration of her own journey but also a tribute to the shared human experience. Through her silk designs, embroidered textiles, and inked compositions, Grewal offers a visual language that speaks to the heart and soul.
Her dedication to ecological practices and her commitment to traditional techniques ensure that her work is as meaningful as it is beautiful. Kirandeep Grewal’s art serves as a bridge between cultures, generations, and stories—an enduring reminder of the connections that define us.
