Madhu Kumar
Madhu Kumar (BFA, BA, B.Ed) is a Canadian artist who uses the power of art and storytelling to connect and empower her subjects and audience. Kumar’s art practice combines painting and digital media to create a respectful space for immigrant women to share their experiences.
Madhu Kumar earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from the University of Regina with Great Distinction in 2017, and her Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education degrees from India. Kumar emigrated to Canada in 2001.
In addition to her art practice, Kumar teaches art classes, art workshops and lends her time as a dedicated community volunteer. Her remarkable contributions have been acknowledged with the prestigious 2020 YWCA Women of Distinction Awards in the Arts and Cultural category in Regina, a testament to her profound impact within her community.
Madhu’s artwork has been exhibited internationally and is held in private and public collections in India, Great Britain, United States of America and Canada. She has worked on the Tawatina Bridge installation project in Edmonton with David Garneau. Her art has served as a catalyst for meaningful dialogue and communal introspection, notably during its tour throughout Saskatchewan in addition to other exhibitions held in many galleries, where it promoted profound reflections on the immigrant experience, racism, and social injustice. Most recently, her artistry has been recognised by The Daniel Corporation, one of Canada’s largest and preeminent builders and developers, who acquired six of her paintings for their permanent collection to adore the walls of their prestigious World Urban Pavillion in Toronto.
With each brushstroke, Madhu Kumar invites everyone into a world where art transcends boundaries, sparking conversations, and fostering empathy. Her unwavering commitment to social change through artistic expression continues to inspire and uplift audiences worldwide.
ARTIST’S STATEMENT
Madhu Kumar: Artist’s Statement
My art serves as a poignant reflection of the immigrant journey, particularly that of
women who have moved to a new country, faced with the challenges and
uncertainties that come with such a significant life change. As an immigrant myself, I
understand the profound impact of living in a different environment, immersed in a
foreign culture, and often separated from the comfort of family and friends who were
once dear to me. This journey inspired me to create art that captures the essence of
these experiences on canvas.
My creative process is deeply collaborative, rooted in heartfelt interviews with
immigrant women. Their narratives become the brushstrokes that inform my oil
portraits, capturing both their struggles and moments of triumph.
These women embody resilience, intelligence, and determination, yet their paths are
fraught with challenges as they adapt to unfamiliar surroundings. Through my art, I
endeavour to convey the spectrum of emotions—loneliness, frustration, sadness,
and confusion—that accompany the immigrant experience. Each portrait is a
testament to their strength and resilience, offering a window into their lives and
initiating crucial dialogues about immigration.
Beyond personal expression, my art serves a broader purpose. It provides a platform
for immigrant women to share their stories respectfully and initiate meaningful
dialogues within communities. By fostering empathy and understanding, I strive to
create a more inclusive society that values the invaluable contributions of immigrant
women. Through collective exhibitions, I aim to shed light on their remarkable
resilience, inspiring advocacy for positive social change.
Ultimately, my art is a testament to the power of storytelling and empathy, bridging
cultures and fostering a deeper appreciation for the immigrant experience.
Madhu Kumar (BFA, BA, B.Ed) is a Canadian artist who uses the power of art and storytelling to connect and empower her subjects and audience. Kumar’s art practice combines painting and digital media to create a respectful space for immigrant women to share their experiences.
Madhu Kumar earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from the University of Regina with Great Distinction in 2017, and her Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education degrees from India. Kumar emigrated to Canada in 2001.
In addition to her art practice, Kumar teaches art classes, art workshops and lends her time as a dedicated community volunteer. Her remarkable contributions have been acknowledged with the prestigious 2020 YWCA Women of Distinction Awards in the Arts and Cultural category in Regina, a testament to her profound impact within her community.
Madhu’s artwork has been exhibited internationally and is held in private and public collections in India, Great Britain, United States of America and Canada. She has worked on the Tawatina Bridge installation project in Edmonton with David Garneau. Her art has served as a catalyst for meaningful dialogue and communal introspection, notably during its tour throughout Saskatchewan in addition to other exhibitions held in many galleries, where it promoted profound reflections on the immigrant experience, racism, and social injustice. Most recently, her artistry has been recognised by The Daniel Corporation, one of Canada’s largest and preeminent builders and developers, who acquired six of her paintings for their permanent collection to adore the walls of their prestigious World Urban Pavillion in Toronto.
With each brushstroke, Madhu Kumar invites everyone into a world where art transcends boundaries, sparking conversations, and fostering empathy. Her unwavering commitment to social change through artistic expression continues to inspire and uplift audiences worldwide.
ARTIST’S STATEMENT
Madhu Kumar: Artist’s Statement
My art serves as a poignant reflection of the immigrant journey, particularly that of
women who have moved to a new country, faced with the challenges and
uncertainties that come with such a significant life change. As an immigrant myself, I
understand the profound impact of living in a different environment, immersed in a
foreign culture, and often separated from the comfort of family and friends who were
once dear to me. This journey inspired me to create art that captures the essence of
these experiences on canvas.
My creative process is deeply collaborative, rooted in heartfelt interviews with
immigrant women. Their narratives become the brushstrokes that inform my oil
portraits, capturing both their struggles and moments of triumph.
These women embody resilience, intelligence, and determination, yet their paths are
fraught with challenges as they adapt to unfamiliar surroundings. Through my art, I
endeavour to convey the spectrum of emotions—loneliness, frustration, sadness,
and confusion—that accompany the immigrant experience. Each portrait is a
testament to their strength and resilience, offering a window into their lives and
initiating crucial dialogues about immigration.
Beyond personal expression, my art serves a broader purpose. It provides a platform
for immigrant women to share their stories respectfully and initiate meaningful
dialogues within communities. By fostering empathy and understanding, I strive to
create a more inclusive society that values the invaluable contributions of immigrant
women. Through collective exhibitions, I aim to shed light on their remarkable
resilience, inspiring advocacy for positive social change.
Ultimately, my art is a testament to the power of storytelling and empathy, bridging
cultures and fostering a deeper appreciation for the immigrant experience.
$8,000.00
Oil on canvas.
36x36x2"
One of the paintings from my series, "The Stories of Immigrant Women"
$8,500.00
Oil on canvas.
36x42x2"
Madhu Kumar’s: “The Stories of immigrant women”
“Super Hero”
In the fall of 2021, I came to Toronto when the world was still grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic. It took nearly two months of ups and downs until, thanks to the Canadian government’s assistance, I could rent a room in a basement.
I felt like a tree uprooted from its origin, ready to be replanted in a different geography, and at the same time, like a newborn starting from scratch in the stage of life where I currently find myself. Therefore, my first priority was to learn English to be able to communicate with others. I enrolled in ESL classes, which were conducted online.
Having a background in art, particularly painting and video, I was curious about Toronto’s art spaces. Even though I was still learning the language, I joined an online art workshop designed specifically for immigrant women. As a result, I got to know Toronto’s art scene and met several professional artists. I even produced two paintings during the workshop, which were displayed alongside other artworks in a gallery.
During my stay, I visited some museums and galleries in Toronto, which helped me cope with the depression I had experienced. These activities assisted me in dealing with the challenges I faced.
After seven months of language learning, I realised that I needed to learn academic English. So, starting in January 2023, I entered college and successfully improved my English skills with the help of a government loan. This progress will enable me to start my favourite program related to my art background in September and further enhance my knowledge. Eventually, I aim to pursue my dream job and become a valuable member of Canadian society.
I owe my progress today, achieved in less than two years of relentless effort despite the challenges, depression, longing , and loneliness, to the compassionate Canadian government. They provided me with the opportunity to grow in a safe and healthy community.