Daya Bhatti was the BCN artist in residence at The Wolverhampton School of Art in January. Below you can read a short interview with the artist on her practice.
Daya visually communicates the significance of traditions, histories and the hybrid British Asian identity. She brings to life the stories and experiences that have shaped her own identity, but also illustrates stories from diverse South Asian communities. Her versatile portfolio encompasses a wide array of artistic mediums from portraiture, fashion illustrations and animations to painting, textiles and the use of recycled materials. Daya blurs the lines between fashion and art, often using clothing as a vehicle for storytelling by creating wearable pieces of art. She has exhibited in various galleries across the UK alongside facilitating creative workshops and taking on commissions from clients such as Manchester Museum and Preston Park and Museum.
Multistory: Your work explores the intersection of textiles, fashion and storytelling, you experiment with making 'wearable pieces of art'. What informs your interest in textiles as an artform?
Daya: My interest in merging textiles and art is inspired by the rich storytelling embedded in South Asian textiles, fashion, and craftsmanship. These traditions are not just about aesthetics, but about conveying history, culture, and personal narratives.
My practice has evolved from creating artworks on fabrics to painting and collaging recycled garments and now through this residency, I have been able to explore textiles more deeply. I incorporated scent and touch sensors to create interactive experiences that make the storytelling more dynamic and participatory.
Multistory: What was your focus for this residency?
Daya: My focus for this residency was exploring fabrics and creating sensory experiences that push the boundaries of traditional forms. I specifically delved into the sari, not just as a garment, but as a symbol rich with cultural, emotional, and historical significance.
A key development in my practice was integrating scent with textiles, adding a new exciting layer to the storytelling. Scents like sandalwood and turmeric evoke the warmth of home and memory, adding an interactive element that deepens the work’s meaning.
Multistory: Where would you like to go next with your practice?
I’m keen to expand my work with sensory experiences and interactive elements, integrating new technologies to create immersive and dynamic narratives. I’m excited to continue developing new work following on from this residency which you can follow on my Instagram.
Additionally my latest hand-painted mobile Indian cart 'From Home to Home', which explores themes of migration, home and identity is now available for hire. Designed to bring diverse stories to life, this mobile installation aims to make them more accessible to audiences. A learning resource is also available offering deeper insight into the significance of the objects, decoration, and histories on the cart. Feel free to get in touch - download the information pack for further details.
Find Daya Bhatti on her website and on Instagram.