Piece By Peace Sonal Ambani

Winner of this year’s ‘excellence award for art & culture’ from ficco flo, the multifaceted sculptor, gallerist, show-jumper and peace-seeker who migrated from new york to Ahmedabad post marriage, talks of her recent sculptures – four of which have been acquired.

- Sangeeta Wadhwani

You have long had a passion for depicting horses, and forms of divinity. But this time, we see you exploring elephants as a silhouette! How did this come to be?

“I have always had an affinity for horses since I was show jumping in New York, and have always had a deep sense of respect and admiration towards elephants. Not only are they a symbol of grace and prosperity, but they have also historically been associated with war and brute strength. This juxtaposition of grace with force is a characteristic that helps bring my sculptures to life! I fondly remember a passing moment while waiting in the everlasting traffic of Ahmedabad – I was busy on my phone, when I happened to look out of the window for just a moment. All around me people were busy beeping their horns, talking on their phones, so caught up in their daily activities, but to the edge of the street was this immense elephant meandering down. Its eyes were calm yet perceptive – and the entire experience was something out of a book. Seeing this massive creature serendipitously strolling through the streets while veiling the colossal strength and force it has, was the moment that inspired me to depict these magnificent creatures in my artwork.”

You have consistently wanted to endorse and send out messages for world peace... tell us about how your works take this quest further?