MICHELLE POONAWALLA

THERE’S MORE TO THIS GIFTED ARTIST THAN HER TRADEMARK BUTTERFLY MOTIFS AND ILLUSTRIOUS LAST NAME. FROM THE ALLURE OF ART TO SUPPORTING WOMEN-LED INITIATIVES AND EXHIBITING IN VARIED GALLERIES AROUND THE GLOBE, MICHELLE POONAWALLA LETS US INTO HER COLOURFUL WORLD OF CREATIVE EXPRESSION

- NAYARE ALI

Michelle Poonawalla needs no introduction to the world of art. For that matter, to the world of haute couture either. A gifted artist who has traversed the various facets of the field, from sculptures and graffiti to varied forms of paintings, she leaves her distinct mark in any medium she chooses. Well known for the butterfly motifs she favours in both her art and outfits, Poonawalla is a passionate environmentalist and dynamic entrepreneur, who has had her artwork showcased at prestigious events and international museums. HELLO! is enthralled as the elegant lady updates us on her artistic accomplishments.

In February, you unveiled ‘The Striped Tiger’ for WWF’s AR-mazing Tiger Trail at the National Museum of Singapore. How did it feel to be one of only three Indians chosen for this exhibition?

Coming from India, one of the very few countries to still have tigers in the wild, the project is very close to my heart. It was an honour to be chosen alongside two other leading Indian artists, Subodh Gupta and Bharti Kher.

You partnered with the Women’s Supercar Club of India for their inaugural drive, where you showcased some of your graffiti work. What made you collaborate with them?