Calhi Studio is a New Delhi based fine art studio. The studio unites the artistic philosophies of artists Saruha Kilaru and Clay Howard. Their partnership blends a mix of object-based works using 2D and 3D elements of design in various mediums including glass, ceramics, print, fiber, oil, and watercolor. Like the name “Calhi”, which is a portmanteau of California and Delhi, their collaborations signify the confluence of cross-cultural references within each of their artistic practices.

Their work represents a juxtaposition of outward vanity versus inner emotions further highlighting the sporadic and at times schizophrenic nature of modern-day life. While Saruha’s work looks into the intangibility of emotions and its metaphoric representation of colour, Clay’s practice focuses on the superficial and humorous aspects of society and life through exaggerated characters and social satire. The overall effect creates a dynamic between an inner, nuanced visual poetry and the outward portrayal of the absurd and satiric.

Focusing on object-based media, the team creates pieces such as a ceramic magazine rack or a ceramic table with ripples that forms a glass case. These works are conceived to interact with artificial spaces while capturing moments in time through light. The collaboration fuses meaningful stories into physical spaces forming deeper conversations between art and its environment.
,

The partners imagine works centered around space and sustainable materials where art extends beyond the canvas. The vision is to build a practice that allows thinking beyond the constraints and limitations of a gallery or museum space. As Clay states, “By mindfully integrating our pieces into the preexisting interior design, we see this project as much more than a commercial venture and we hope for our studio to stand as a symbol of true artistry on all levels.”

The magic of the creations is that every object is a one-off, unique to Calhi’s artistic language and the client’s vision. Saruha continues, “Working with artists, storytellers, and skilled craftsmen, we look to upcycle and alter existing materials, creating new stories by stitching together objects through our own narrative.”