Mansha Chatwal

Mansha Chattwal (b. 1974) is an artist based in
Mumbai whose research-driven practice
investigates book burning as a lens through
which to examine history, censorship, memory
and loss. An avid reader, she traces stories of
banned books, writers and libraries, using them
as points of entry into questions of power,
identity and cultural erasure. Materials play a
central role in her work—sometimes amplifying
the subject, sometimes resisting it—adding
tactile layers that invite viewers to look beyond
the surface and recognize the texts that inform
each piece.
After nearly two decades in advertising, Mansha
shifted toward a more open, exploratory
approach to artmaking. Her practice now spans
drawings, sculptures, artist books and
installations, united by a desire to experiment,
learn new techniques and create immersive
encounters. Through these multidimensional
works, she encourages audiences to reflect on
what is preserved, what is silenced and how
stories endure despite attempts to erase them.