Sakshi Agarwal, Reliquary, 2023, high-fired stoneware paper clay. Image courtesy of the artist.

Sakshi Agarwal explores the concept of modern-day reliquaries—containers of significance or memory—through the integration of Australian cultural themes and Indian craft traditions.

During this residency, Agarwal merges these two rich artistic lineages, seeking to create a series of ceramic installations that honour history while embracing contemporary perspectives. She will experiment, refine and bring these hybrid reliquaries to life, creating works which foster cross-cultural dialogue and highlight the timeless relevance of craft and the universal importance of preserving culture and memories through art.

By weaving connections between the two cultures, paying homage to their shared focus on storytelling, heritage and craftsmanship, each reliquary becomes a narrative of migration, identity, and the interplay of tradition and innovation.

BIO

Sakshi Agarwal is a New Delhi-based Ceramist and Industrial designer, who has been working as a Senior Furniture designer & freelance graphic designer for over 11 years. With a strong foundation in professional design, Agarwal transitioned to ceramics in 2017, honing her skills at Blue Turtle Studio under the mentorship of artist Ms. Madhur Sen.

Agarwal’s work seamlessly integrates both wheel-thrown and hand-built techniques, achieving a harmonious interplay between positive and negative spaces. These meticulously crafted forms are adorned with intricate two-dimensional patterns that transform spatial perception, evoking the essence of woven tapestries and architectural grids. Through this distinctive approach, Agarwal continues to push the boundaries of ceramic artistry, redefining the relationship between form, texture, and visual depth.

Agarwal holds a Bachelor of Design, Interior Design (India, 2008) and a Master of Industrial Design from Scuola Politecnica Di Design (Italy, 2016). Among her notable achievements, she completed a prestigious ceramic residency at Taoxichuan International Studio in China (2024), received the ‘Excellence Award’ at the Shiwan Cup 12th Annual International Youth Ceramic Art Competition (2024), and has contributed to community projects through the Indian Ceramic Triennale at the India Art Fair. Agarwal has participated in numerous group exhibitions, and her works have been displayed in many galleries such as the Guangdong Shiwan Ceramics Museum and Quimo Art Gallery in China, and Triveni and Bikaner House in Delhi.