Traditional Art, Modern Approach

By admin on Thursday, April 15, 2010 - 21:42

Neha Gandhi, an artist from Mumbai, decided to follow her heart into the art world and make it a profitable venture. Matsya is a platform to create awareness about the artisans’ life, culture and age old traditions. The venture also tries to educate on how people’s purchasing choices directly impact the livelihoods of thousands artisans and the survival of generations –old traditions. Neha shares her passion with JF readers.

1) What was the inspiration behind this venture?
As an artist, my reflections of my personal and professional experiences in life left an impact on me. I further extended this experience by featuring them through my endeavour Matsya.

2) What was the biggest hurdle when you started off?
The biggest hurdle was my confidence. But I forced myself to act - learning to use particular software, use internet in an effective way or taking pictures. Today I am better at all of it and it shows in my work.

3) Where do you see yourself / your venture in 10 years?
I don’t know about 10years but I definitely would say I have grown in the last six months in all aspects personally and professionally and I take this forward to expand and network and reach to more concrete and larger goals of Matsya. This venture is not about retailing the products but making people aware about our age old traditions and many social messages involved in the process.

4) What will be you biggest challenge going forward?
Reaching the target audience is my biggest challenge. I need to make some strategic changes to achieve this.

5) Who or what has been your biggest support?
My biggest support has been a digital agency, Flying Cursor Interactive based in Mumbai. They supported me right from the start by by letting me use their resources without any expectations. They taught me the power of internet. Apart from them of course, all the artisans I work with and my parents are my pillars of strength.

6) What do you tell yourself when the going gets tough?
Never loose your hope and faith, believe in them.

7) What would be your one piece of advice for aspiring entrepreneurs?
Believe in your ideas and make it work in your own skill sets without being dependent!

Fore more information go to Matsya