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'''Charuvi Agrawal''' (born 20 June 1983) is an Indian painter, sculptor, animator, filmmaker, and visual artist. She graduated from [[Sheridan College|Sheridan Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning, Canada]], and is a gold medalist in fine arts from the [[College of Art]], [[University of Delhi]].


= Introduction =
Charuvi Agrawal is an avant-garde multi-media artist best known for technological enabled large scale physical artworks, animated short films, TV shows and immersive experiences (VR/AR). <ref>{{Cite web |title=Crossing continents for love of learning {{!}} Community {{!}} Sheridan College |url=https://www.sheridancollege.ca/newsroom/articles/community/crossing-continents-for-love-of-learning |website=www.sheridancollege.ca}}</ref>Her films have been screened at various film festivals while her artwork has been displayed at various public forums besides being in homes of discerning collectors in India. Her work routinely tests the boundaries of interactive technology, design and art employing elements of Indian mythology to present transformational and immersive storytelling. Her "26,000 Bells of light", a travelling exhibition includes a 25 feet interactive bell installation, numerous mythology inspired figurines, paintings, augmented reality installation, and a hand painted Kavad which has been showcased in various Indian metros. In 2016, her people's revolution zoetrope was placed at the Lucknow JP Museum as a permanent artefact besides being commissioned to make more for other public forum.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-08-22 |title=Charuvi Agrawal - An Indian Painter, Sculptor, Animator, Filmmaker, And Visual Artist. |url=https://talentsofworld.com/charuvi-agrawal-an-indian-painter-sculptor-animator-filmmaker-and-visual-artist/}}</ref>
'''Charuvi Agrawal''' (born 20 June 1983) is an Indian painter, sculptor, animator, filmmaker, and [[Installation art|installation artist]] known for integrating traditional Indian mythology with advanced multimedia technologies in her art. She has gained international recognition for her animated films & large-scale installations.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Charuvi Agrawal - An Indian Painter, Sculptor, Animator, Filmmaker, And Visual Artist. - Talentsofworld Articles |url=https://talentsofworld.com/charuvi-agrawal-an-indian-painter-sculptor-animator-filmmaker-and-visual-artist/ |website=Talents Of World}}</ref>


==Early life and Education==
After graduating with a bachelor's degree in fine arts from the Delhi College of Arts, India in 2005, Charuvi went on to get a masters in computer animation from Sheridan Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning, Canada. She excelled at both institutes, graduating with top honors. She then started her design firm [[Charuvi Design Labs|CDL (Charuvi Design Labs)]] focusing on high quality animation content and artwork. Based out of Gurugram, CDL creates works that are visually opulent, technically ambitious and which reworks the imagery and mythology of the popular Indian narratives. A technique Charuvi often employs is the juxtaposition of small and everyday against the large and imposing.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sniffing out the differences. - Interaction 18 – 3—8 February 2018 • Lyon, France |url=https://interaction18.ixda.org/program/talk-sniffing-out-the-differences-sahu-kadambari-kadambari-sahu/}}</ref>
Charuvi Agrawal was born in New Delhi, India. She exhibited a profound interest in art from a young age, leading her to pursue formal education in the field. She graduated as a gold medalist in [[College of Art, Delhi|Fine Arts from the College of Art, University of Delhi in 2005]], and later earned a master's degree in [[Computer animation|Computer Animation]] from the [[Sheridan College|Sheridan Institute of Technology]] and Advanced Learning in Canada.


== Career ==
She has been honored twice at "[[Limca Book of World Records|Limca Books of World Records]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=2011-04-18 |title=Claytronics Art - India Book of Records |url=https://indiabookofrecords.in/claytronics-art/}}</ref>" and at the age of 23 she was facilitated at "[[Incredible India|Incredible India @60]]" festival in New York by Coca-Cola as one of "the emerging 10 who would transform the global artistic landscape." She has contributed to various publications and spoken at multiple platforms including GDG Women Techmakers @Google, Tedx @IIT Kharagpur, the [[University of Edinburgh|University, of Edinburgh]] India Design Forum, Animation Master's Summit, SIGGRAPH.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2014-07-18|title=Chanting Success {{!}} Verve Magazine|url=https://www.vervemagazine.in/people/charuvi-agarwal|access-date=2021-08-27|website=www.vervemagazine.in|language=en-US}}</ref>


=== Art Installations and Public Exhibits ===
She founded [[Charuvi Design Labs (CDL)|CDL (Charuvi Design Labs)]] in 2009, and worked in Canada for the [[National Film Board of Canada|National Film Board]].
Charuvi Agrawal is an artist known for her diverse works, including large-scale physical artworks, animated short films, TV shows, and immersive experiences (VR/AR). Her work explores various aspects of interactive technology, design, and art, often incorporating elements of Indian mythology to create immersive storytelling experiences. Notable works include:


* Shri Hanuman Suspended Sculpture"<ref>{{Cite news |date=2017-04-11 |title=Superhero avatar of Lord Hanuman on display at Indira Gandhi National Center for the Arts​ {{!}} Delhi News - Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/superhero-avatar-of-lord-hanuman-on-display-at-indira-gandhi-national-center-for-arts/articleshow/58131345.cms |work=Times Of India}}</ref>: This majestic 25-foot sculpture, composed of 26,000 bells, captures the profound essence and magnificence of Hanuman. As a traveling art installation, it has been displayed at prestigious locations such as the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), Select CITYWALK<ref>{{Cite news |date=2014-09-26 |title=Mythological buff Charuvi dedicates artwork to Hanuman - Hindustan Times |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/art-and-culture/mythological-buff-charuvi-dedicates-artwork-to-hanuman/story-IRg6ZDm1OpP5mfupcGz6hM.html |work=Hindustan Times}}</ref>, Red Fort, as well as in cities including Mumbai, Pune<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-01-22 |title=Artistry in Atrium: Phoenix Marketcity, Pune, Unveils Lord Hanuman Sculpture to Mark Ram Mandir Inauguration - PUNE.NEWS |work=Pune.News}}</ref>, and Indore.
Her biggest achievement is the [[3D computer graphics|3D Animation film]] [[Shri Hanuman Chalisa]], made in 2013 and which received many awards. She is a well-known in the field of animation and fine arts.


* "Shakti: Fair & Fierce": Standing at 10 feet tall, this sculptural installation is crafted from over 150,000 hand-blown glass beads. Exploring themes of feminine power and spiritual transformation, it has been exhibited at the National Gallery of Modern Art, offering a neutral platform for reflection on empowerment and resilience.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-03-08 |title=Shakti: Fair &amp; Fierce - Celebrating Feminine Power Through Art at Delhi’s NGMA - The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/art/shakti-fair-fierce-celebrating-feminine-power-through-art-at-delhis-ngma/article67914798.ece |work=The Hindu}}</ref>
==Early life and background==
Agrawal was born in 1983 in New Delhi. She trained in fine art at the [[College of Art, Delhi|College of Art]] in Delhi where she won a gold medal, and followed it up with a graduation in computer animation from [[Sheridan College|Sheridan Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning]] in Canada. A multi talented artist she [[paint]]s, [[Sculpture|sculpts]], designs, works in animation and films.


=== Animation and Film ===
Her most notable work is her animated short film Shri Hanuman Chalisa and she made a 25-foot Bell Sculptor of Lord Hanuman of 26,000 bells.
Charuvi’s venture into filmmaking and animation is marked by her acclaimed work:


* "Shri Hanuman Chalisa" (2013): This 3D animated film received international accolades and was nominated for several awards. It symbolically explores the spiritual themes of the ancient hymn.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Shri Hanuman Chalisa (Short 2013) - IMDb |url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2661798/ |website=IMDb}}</ref>
==Charuvi Design Labs (CDL)==
* "[[The Legend of Hanuman]]": This animated series, produced by Graphic India and created in collaboration with Charuvi Agrawal among others, delves into the life of Lord Hanuman. Released exclusively on Disney+ Hotstar, all 26 episodes are available in seven languages—Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, Bengali, Malayalam, and Kannada. In 2021, Graphic India announced that "The Legend of Hanuman" was the second most-watched show that year across all Indian streaming platforms, according to APN News. The series continued its success with Season 3 becoming the most-watched show on Disney+ Hotstar in India.<ref>{{Cite web |title=The Legend of Hanuman (TV Series 2021– ) - IMDb |url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt13854248/ |website=IMDb}}</ref>
[[Charuvi Design Labs (CDL)]] is a leading animation studio and design lab founded by Charuvi Agrawal in 2009. CDL is an independently owned and operated studio of national and international repute, specialize in 2D and 3D Animation, VFX, Design and Interactive Art Installations.


=== Charuvi Design Labs ===
CDL studio has partnered with numerous global brands and international agencies and has showcased its talent at countless exhibitions and festivals in India, as well as around the globe.
In 2009, Charuvi founded [[Charuvi Design Labs|Charuvi Design Labs (CDL)]] in Gurugram, focusing on producing high-quality animation content and innovative artwork. CDL has since become a hub for pioneering work in 2D and 3D animation, visual effects, and interactive installations.


= Contributions and Recognitions =
==The Legend of Hanuman - animated web series==
Charuvi’s contributions to art and technology have been acknowledged widely:


* She has been honored twice in the Limca Book of World Records.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2011-04-18 |title=You searched for Charuvi agrawal - India Book of Records |url=https://indiabookofrecords.in/?s=Charuvi+agrawal |archive-date= |website=India Book of Records}}</ref>
An animated series '''"[[The Legend of Hanuman]]"''' produced by Graphic India and created by Sharad Devarajan, Charuvi Agrawal and Jeevan J. Kang. The series is a combined effort of artists from Graphic India, Charuvi Agrawal ([[Charuvi Design Labs|CDL]]) and Redefine. The series was released on [[Disney+ Hotstar]] globally on January 29, 2021 in seven Indian languages. The animated web series features Lord Hanuman's extraordinary journey of self-discovery. It is narrated by [[Sharad Kelkar]].
* Recognized as one of the "emerging 10 who would transform the global artistic landscape" at the "Incredible India @60" festival in New York by Coca-Cola.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-03-16 |title=All It Took To Make My Mark as an Animation Filmmaker |url=https://www.thebetterindia.com/312877/international-award-winning-animator-charuvi-agarwal-fought-sexism-to-work/ |website=The Better India}}</ref>
* Her discussions at prestigious platforms such as TEDx @IIT Kharagpur, the University of Edinburgh, India Design Forum, and SIGGRAPH underscore her role as a thought leader in the convergence of art and technology.


== Claytronics: ==
The series follows Hanuman and his transformation from a mighty warrior to a god and how Hanuman became the beacon of hope amidst the harrowing darkness.
Coined by Charuvi Agrawal, "Claytronics" is a technique that merges clay sculpting with storytelling to create miniature 3D sculptures that often feature humorous and topical narratives. Inspired by her childhood interest in clay sculpture, Charuvi's works in this medium include depictions of notable figures such as former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and scientist APJ Abdul Kalam, portrayed in whimsical settings. This approach blends elements of cartooning with sculpture, providing a novel perspective on contemporary themes through art.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2011-04-18 |title=Claytronics Art - India Book of Records |url=https://indiabookofrecords.in/claytronics-art/ |website=India Book of Records}}</ref>


== Shri Hanuman Chalisa: ==
All 26 episodes of the show are available in seven languages – Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, Bengali, Malayalam, and Kannada; and were exclusively released on [[Disney+ Hotstar]] VIP. In 2021, Graphic India announced that '''"[[The Legend of Hanuman]]"''' was the second most-watched show in 2021 across all Indian streaming platforms. Source [https://www.apnnews.com/graphic-india-announces-that-the-legend-of-hanuman-was-the-2-most-watched-show-in-2021-across-all-streaming-platforms-according-to-ormax-media/ APN News]. However, Season 3 of the series became the most-watched show on Disney+ Hotstar in India.<ref>{{Cite news |last=srivastav |first=simran |date=2023-10-27 |title=The Legend Of Hanuman Season 3 Officially Announced; Release Date To Be Revealed Soon |url=https://english.jagran.com/entertainment/the-legend-of-hanuman-season-3-officially-announced-release-date-to-be-revealed-soon-10109334}}</ref>
Directed by Charuvi Agrawal in 2013, "Shri Hanuman Chalisa" is a 3D animated short film that explores themes of faith and spirituality. Featuring a rendition by [[Shaan (singer)|Shaan]], the film visually interprets the ancient religious hymn, which is widely sung and revered. Nominated for several awards, the film has been recognized for its artistic portrayal of Hindu mythology and the figure of Shri Hanuman, offering viewers an opportunity to reflect on devotion and self-realization.


== Shri Hanuman Suspended Sculpture: ==
==Claytronics==
Charuvi Agrawal has also ventured into physical artworks, such as the "Shri Hanuman Suspended Sculpture." This 25-foot artwork, made from 26,000 bells, merges artistic expression with technological innovation to capture the spiritual essence of the deity Hanuman. The sculpture symbolizes devotion and spiritual resonance, serving as a reminder of the enduring influence and significance of Hanuman’s legacy. This has now traveled to Phoenix Citadel Mall, Indore.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-01-23 |title=Phoenix Marketcity: In Pics: 25-Foot Lord Hanuman Sculpture Unveiled At Pune&#x27;s Phoenix Marketcity {{!}} Pune News, Times Now |url=https://www.timesnownews.com/pune/in-pics-25-foot-lord-hanuman-sculpture-unveiled-at-punes-phoenix-marketcity-article-107085945 |pages=Times Now News}}</ref>
Charuvi Agrawal developed a new technique which she called "Claytronics". She uses clay to create humorous miniature 3D sculptures, each telling a topical story.


== Thali Bajao Praxinoscope – The People's Revolution: ==
She has chosen to deliberate on something that was a childhood hobby—creating interesting figures out of clay.
At the Jayprakash Narayan Museum in Lucknow, Charuvi Agrawal's "Thali Bajao [[Praxinoscope]]" presents a unique storytelling experience through art. Using diverse materials, the seven-foot-tall revolving sculpture encapsulates a significant historical moment, inviting viewers to ponder its contemporary relevance. Crafted over 11 weeks in a makeshift workshop, the installation combines clay, fiberglass, metal, plaster, and acrylic. Enhanced with calibrated strobe lights and set on a rotating platform, it offers a captivating glimpse into its essence, akin to a large-scale zoetrope—truly one-of-a-kind in India.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2019-05-30 |title=Experience a one of its kind praxinoscope at The The Jayprakash Narayan Museum in Lucknow |url=https://www.animationxpress.com/latest-news/experience-one-kind-praxinoscope-jayprakash-narayan-museum-lucknow/ |website=AnimatinXpress}}</ref>


== The Legend of Hanuman - Animated Web Series: ==
She learnt clay making at a summer camp that happened at her school, when she was in class VI. She not at all thought she would excel to this extent later in her life.
"The Legend of Hanuman" is an animated series produced by Graphic India, with creative inputs from [[Sharad Devarajan]], [[Charuvi Agrawal]], and [[Jeevan Kang|Jeevan J. Kang]]. This series, which brings together artists from Graphic India, Charuvi Design Labs (CDL), and Redefine, depicts the journey of Lord Hanuman as he evolves from a mighty warrior to a god. Released globally on [[Disney+ Hotstar]] on January 29, 2021, in seven Indian languages, it narrates Hanuman's trials and triumphs, highlighting themes of hope and resilience. The series, available in multiple languages exclusively on Disney+ Hotstar VIP, has released Seasons 1,2 & 3.


== Shakti: Fair & Fierce: ==
For example, The miniature of former PM Dr. [[Manmohan Singh]], depicts him as puppet and the one of [[A. P. J. Abdul Kalam|APJ Abdul Kalam]] depicts him on rocket with a comb in his pocket! Basically, she combines the art of cartooning with that of sculpture.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.indiabookofrecords.in/claytronics-art/|title=Claytronics Art|publisher=}}</ref>
"Shakti: Fair & Fierce," featured at 'Lumena', is a multimedia sculptural installation by Charuvi Agrawal that celebrates the divine feminine. The 10-foot tall piece, composed of over 150,000 hand-blown glass beads, represents themes of purity, balance, and transformation. This work is a tribute to the power and spirituality of the female figure, reflecting Charuvi’s dedication to exploring deep spiritual themes through her artistic work.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-03-06 |title=‘Shakti: Fair & Fierce’ art exhibition empowers talented women artists across India to showcase their work {{!}} Lifestyle Gallery News - The Indian Express |url=https://indianexpress.com/photos/lifestyle-gallery/shakti-fair-fierce-art-exhibition-women-empowerment-national-gallery-of-modern-art-delhi-9196413/ |work=The Indian Express}}</ref>


== Ramayana Chitrakavyam ==
She created many miniatures like [[Arnold Schwarzenegger]], [[Mother Teresa]], [[Veerappan|Veerapan]], Osama Bin Laden, [[Manmohan Singh|Dr. Manmohan Singh]], [[A. P. J. Abdul Kalam|APJ Abdul Kalam]], [[Sonia Gandhi]], [[Atal Bihari Vajpayee]], [[Lalu Prasad Yadav]], [[Mulayam Singh Yadav|Mulayam Singh]], Dr Salim Ali, George Bush, [[Bal Thackeray]] and [[I. K. Gujral|I.K Gujral]].
The "Ramayana Chitrakavyam" exhibition at the [[National Gallery of Modern Art]] (NGMA) in Delhi showcased contemporary artists' interpretations, including works by [[Jamini Roy]] and [[Nandalal Bose|Nandlal Bose]], depicting the story of Hanuman. A standout feature was the "Hanuman's Journey: The Kaavad Shrine," a life-sized, hand-painted kaavad installation (8 ft x 16 ft) depicting Hanuman's self-realization journey. The kaavad incorporated interactive elements like folding shutters and shelves, adorned with meticulously replicated items from Hanuman's narrative, such as the Ram Setu and Rama's ring, providing visitors with a tactile and immersive experience of Hanuman's story.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kaavad - 16 Feet Story Book - Charuvi Agrawal - WikiArt.org |url=https://www.wikiart.org/en/charuvi-agrawal/kaavad-16-feet-story-book |website=Wikiart}}</ref>

==Shri Hanuman Chalisa==
[[Shri Hanuman Chalisa (Short film)|Shri Hanuman Chalisa]] directed by Charuvi Agrawal in 2013.<ref>{{Citation|last=Agrawal|first=Charuvi|title=Shri Hanuman Chalisa|date=29 June 2013|url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2661798/|accessdate=2016-05-26}}</ref> 3D animated short film “Shri Hanuman Chalisa”is a symbolic visual poetry of an ancient religious composition that has been sung and hymn across the globe.

The soundtrack is sung by [[Shaan (singer)|Shaan]].

The film has been bestowed critical praise across the globe and nominated in 6 Oscar qualifying films.

The film tries to push the limits of our understanding of faith and spirituality.

Shri Hanuman Chalisa is a film filled with impressive and visually eye-catching scenes of Hindu mythology God - Shri Hanuman. Our perceptive of the divine has a variety of expressions but its factual nature lies within the realization of one‐self. Shri Hanuman provides the highest expression of devotional values and is the purest embodiment seeking God.

== Shri Hanuman suspended Sculpture ==
A Shri Hanuman 25&nbsp;ft Suspended Sculpture made of 26,000 bells is created by Charuvi Agrawal. The 25 feet sculpture of Shri Hanuman made of 26,000 bells which is a unique combination of art and technology and also a humble effort in portray the depth, splendor and the meaning of the verses.

== Thali Bajao Praxinoscope – The Peoples Revolution ==
Charuvi Agrawal presents ''A Tour De Force'' for The Jayprakash Narayan Museum in Lucknow, where a praxinoscope titled ''Thali Bajao'', attempts to recreate the flash in history.

The seven-foot-tall revolving sculpture was made using clay, fibre glass, metal, plaster, and acrylic in a makeshift workshop over 11 weeks. Kept on a rotating platform and with perfectly calibrated strobe lights, the sculpture is designed to take the viewer into the true essence of what it is.

== <bdi>Shakti: Fair & Fierce</bdi> ==
In ‘Lumena’, Charuvi Agrawal brings alive the concept of Kundalini in the serpentine figure of [https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/delhi/2024/Feb/19/the-fair-and-the-fierce Shakti], as a 10-foot tall multi-media sculptural installation. Made of over 1,50,000 hand blown glass beads, this 10-foot installation showcases the power of the female figure as a representation of omnipresence and higher consciousness.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Sinha |first=Diksha |title=The fair and the fierce |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/delhi/2024/Feb/19/the-fair-and-the-fierce |work=new indian express}}</ref>

The flames represent her supreme transformative power across the universe bringing purity and balance. The serpentine figures are symbols of wisdom and protection and represent a duality leading to transformation.


==References==
==References==

Revision as of 12:46, 24 April 2024

Charuvi Agrawal
Designer, Filmmaker, Visual Artist
Born
New Delhi, India
NationalityIndian
Alma materSheridan College
College of Art
AwardsLimca Book of Records
Websitewww.charuvi.com


Introduction

Charuvi Agrawal (born 20 June 1983) is an Indian painter, sculptor, animator, filmmaker, and installation artist known for integrating traditional Indian mythology with advanced multimedia technologies in her art. She has gained international recognition for her animated films & large-scale installations.[1]

Early life and Education

Charuvi Agrawal was born in New Delhi, India. She exhibited a profound interest in art from a young age, leading her to pursue formal education in the field. She graduated as a gold medalist in Fine Arts from the College of Art, University of Delhi in 2005, and later earned a master's degree in Computer Animation from the Sheridan Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning in Canada.

Career

Art Installations and Public Exhibits

Charuvi Agrawal is an artist known for her diverse works, including large-scale physical artworks, animated short films, TV shows, and immersive experiences (VR/AR). Her work explores various aspects of interactive technology, design, and art, often incorporating elements of Indian mythology to create immersive storytelling experiences. Notable works include:

  • Shri Hanuman Suspended Sculpture"[2]: This majestic 25-foot sculpture, composed of 26,000 bells, captures the profound essence and magnificence of Hanuman. As a traveling art installation, it has been displayed at prestigious locations such as the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), Select CITYWALK[3], Red Fort, as well as in cities including Mumbai, Pune[4], and Indore.
  • "Shakti: Fair & Fierce": Standing at 10 feet tall, this sculptural installation is crafted from over 150,000 hand-blown glass beads. Exploring themes of feminine power and spiritual transformation, it has been exhibited at the National Gallery of Modern Art, offering a neutral platform for reflection on empowerment and resilience.[5]

Animation and Film

Charuvi’s venture into filmmaking and animation is marked by her acclaimed work:

  • "Shri Hanuman Chalisa" (2013): This 3D animated film received international accolades and was nominated for several awards. It symbolically explores the spiritual themes of the ancient hymn.[6]
  • "The Legend of Hanuman": This animated series, produced by Graphic India and created in collaboration with Charuvi Agrawal among others, delves into the life of Lord Hanuman. Released exclusively on Disney+ Hotstar, all 26 episodes are available in seven languages—Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, Bengali, Malayalam, and Kannada. In 2021, Graphic India announced that "The Legend of Hanuman" was the second most-watched show that year across all Indian streaming platforms, according to APN News. The series continued its success with Season 3 becoming the most-watched show on Disney+ Hotstar in India.[7]

Charuvi Design Labs

In 2009, Charuvi founded Charuvi Design Labs (CDL) in Gurugram, focusing on producing high-quality animation content and innovative artwork. CDL has since become a hub for pioneering work in 2D and 3D animation, visual effects, and interactive installations.

Contributions and Recognitions

Charuvi’s contributions to art and technology have been acknowledged widely:

  • She has been honored twice in the Limca Book of World Records.[8]
  • Recognized as one of the "emerging 10 who would transform the global artistic landscape" at the "Incredible India @60" festival in New York by Coca-Cola.[9]
  • Her discussions at prestigious platforms such as TEDx @IIT Kharagpur, the University of Edinburgh, India Design Forum, and SIGGRAPH underscore her role as a thought leader in the convergence of art and technology.

Claytronics:

Coined by Charuvi Agrawal, "Claytronics" is a technique that merges clay sculpting with storytelling to create miniature 3D sculptures that often feature humorous and topical narratives. Inspired by her childhood interest in clay sculpture, Charuvi's works in this medium include depictions of notable figures such as former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and scientist APJ Abdul Kalam, portrayed in whimsical settings. This approach blends elements of cartooning with sculpture, providing a novel perspective on contemporary themes through art.[10]

Shri Hanuman Chalisa:

Directed by Charuvi Agrawal in 2013, "Shri Hanuman Chalisa" is a 3D animated short film that explores themes of faith and spirituality. Featuring a rendition by Shaan, the film visually interprets the ancient religious hymn, which is widely sung and revered. Nominated for several awards, the film has been recognized for its artistic portrayal of Hindu mythology and the figure of Shri Hanuman, offering viewers an opportunity to reflect on devotion and self-realization.

Shri Hanuman Suspended Sculpture:

Charuvi Agrawal has also ventured into physical artworks, such as the "Shri Hanuman Suspended Sculpture." This 25-foot artwork, made from 26,000 bells, merges artistic expression with technological innovation to capture the spiritual essence of the deity Hanuman. The sculpture symbolizes devotion and spiritual resonance, serving as a reminder of the enduring influence and significance of Hanuman’s legacy. This has now traveled to Phoenix Citadel Mall, Indore.[11]

Thali Bajao Praxinoscope – The People's Revolution:

At the Jayprakash Narayan Museum in Lucknow, Charuvi Agrawal's "Thali Bajao Praxinoscope" presents a unique storytelling experience through art. Using diverse materials, the seven-foot-tall revolving sculpture encapsulates a significant historical moment, inviting viewers to ponder its contemporary relevance. Crafted over 11 weeks in a makeshift workshop, the installation combines clay, fiberglass, metal, plaster, and acrylic. Enhanced with calibrated strobe lights and set on a rotating platform, it offers a captivating glimpse into its essence, akin to a large-scale zoetrope—truly one-of-a-kind in India.[12]

The Legend of Hanuman - Animated Web Series:

"The Legend of Hanuman" is an animated series produced by Graphic India, with creative inputs from Sharad Devarajan, Charuvi Agrawal, and Jeevan J. Kang. This series, which brings together artists from Graphic India, Charuvi Design Labs (CDL), and Redefine, depicts the journey of Lord Hanuman as he evolves from a mighty warrior to a god. Released globally on Disney+ Hotstar on January 29, 2021, in seven Indian languages, it narrates Hanuman's trials and triumphs, highlighting themes of hope and resilience. The series, available in multiple languages exclusively on Disney+ Hotstar VIP, has released Seasons 1,2 & 3.

Shakti: Fair & Fierce:

"Shakti: Fair & Fierce," featured at 'Lumena', is a multimedia sculptural installation by Charuvi Agrawal that celebrates the divine feminine. The 10-foot tall piece, composed of over 150,000 hand-blown glass beads, represents themes of purity, balance, and transformation. This work is a tribute to the power and spirituality of the female figure, reflecting Charuvi’s dedication to exploring deep spiritual themes through her artistic work.[13]

Ramayana Chitrakavyam

The "Ramayana Chitrakavyam" exhibition at the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) in Delhi showcased contemporary artists' interpretations, including works by Jamini Roy and Nandlal Bose, depicting the story of Hanuman. A standout feature was the "Hanuman's Journey: The Kaavad Shrine," a life-sized, hand-painted kaavad installation (8 ft x 16 ft) depicting Hanuman's self-realization journey. The kaavad incorporated interactive elements like folding shutters and shelves, adorned with meticulously replicated items from Hanuman's narrative, such as the Ram Setu and Rama's ring, providing visitors with a tactile and immersive experience of Hanuman's story.[14]

References

  1. ^ "Charuvi Agrawal - An Indian Painter, Sculptor, Animator, Filmmaker, And Visual Artist. - Talentsofworld Articles". Talents Of World.
  2. ^ "Superhero avatar of Lord Hanuman on display at Indira Gandhi National Center for the Arts​ | Delhi News - Times of India". Times Of India. 11 April 2017. {{cite news}}: zero width space character in |title= at position 90 (help)
  3. ^ "Mythological buff Charuvi dedicates artwork to Hanuman - Hindustan Times". Hindustan Times. 26 September 2014.
  4. ^ "Artistry in Atrium: Phoenix Marketcity, Pune, Unveils Lord Hanuman Sculpture to Mark Ram Mandir Inauguration - PUNE.NEWS". Pune.News. 22 January 2024.
  5. ^ "Shakti: Fair & Fierce - Celebrating Feminine Power Through Art at Delhi's NGMA - The Hindu". The Hindu. 8 March 2024.
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