ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Divya Gangwani's Photography Explores Indian Femininity Through Intergenerational Dialogue

artist · 2026-04-09

Divya Gangwani is a photographer who dives into the representation of Indian femininity, drawing from both her personal experiences and cultural insights. Hailing from Hong Kong with Indian roots, she has lived in New York City for eight years, where her artwork critiques colonial perceptions of Indian women. She completed her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography at Parsons School of Design. Gangwani’s creative process involves meaningful discussions with her family, particularly her grandmother, mother, and sisters, as she explores identity and heritage through photography. Influenced by artists like Shirin Neshat and Priya Kambli, her significant piece “मेरी बहन (My Sister)” confronts cultural insecurities. She incorporates archival elements and unique techniques, viewing art as an evolving conversation, and plans to create a new series focused on her inner world.

Key facts

  • Divya Gangwani is a photographer and multidisciplinary practitioner
  • She was born in Hong Kong and has Indian roots
  • Gangwani has been based in New York City for eight years
  • She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography from Parsons School of Design
  • Her work examines how Indian femininity is represented and understood
  • Gangwani's practice is influenced by intergenerational dialogue with female family members
  • She cites artistic influences including Shirin Neshat, Sarah K. Khan, Melissa Joseph, Priya Kambli, and Baseera Khan
  • A key photograph is titled “मेरी बहन (My Sister)” featuring her sisters

Entities

Artists

  • Divya Gangwani
  • Shirin Neshat
  • Sarah K. Khan
  • Melissa Joseph
  • Priya Kambli
  • Baseera Khan

Institutions

  • Parsons School of Design

Locations

  • Hong Kong
  • New York City
  • United States
  • India

Sources