Aarti Lohia has emerged as a formidable force in the world of contemporary art and philanthropy. Born in India and now based in London, she has woven a unique tapestry of art, culture, and altruism that extends across continents. Known for her deep connection to South Asian art, Aarti Lohia is celebrated for her extensive collection and her visionary contributions to the art community, as well as her dedication to philanthropy.
Early Life and Philanthropic Vision of Aarti Lohia
Aarti Lohia’s journey began in India, where her cultural roots inspired a lifelong passion for South Asian art. Her early encounters with art and heritage instilled a sense of duty to preserve and promote her culture. Her move to Singapore and, later, to London with her family only intensified her resolve to champion South Asian art on an international scale.
While many recognize her for her contributions to art, Lohia’s influence extends far beyond. As the chairperson of the SP Lohia Foundation and the Indorama Charitable Trust, she has led impactful philanthropic initiatives in areas such as education, healthcare, and sports. Her family’s dedication to social causes, notably supported by her father-in-law, SP Lohia, chairman of Indorama Corp, has enabled her to fund and oversee diverse charitable projects across Asia, Africa, and the United Kingdom.
Aarti Lohia’s Role as a Global Art Patron
For Aarti Lohia, art is more than just a personal passion; it is a cultural bridge connecting communities, histories, and stories. She is recognized among the world’s top 200 art collectors, an honor bestowed upon her by the prestigious ARTnews magazine. Her collection, consisting of over 200 pieces, primarily includes works by renowned South Asian artists, making it one of the most comprehensive and unique collections of its kind.
Lohia’s art collection journey began with a painting by Putu Sutawijaya, an influential Indonesian artist. Over the years, she expanded her collection to include pieces from luminaries like Subodh Gupta, M. F. Husain, Shilpa Gupta, and Dayanita Singh. Her collection also spans global artists beyond Asia, with works by Mandy El-Sayegh, Phyllida Barlow, and Gabriel Orozco, to name a few.
Her discerning eye for art is driven by intuition rather than external guidance. Lohia has a unique ability to connect with the emotional depth of a piece, seeing it as a reflection of culture, heritage, and personal expression. This instinctive approach allows her to celebrate diversity through her collection, honoring artists’ individual perspectives while bridging cultures.
Empowering Indian Art on a Global Scale
Aarti Lohia’s commitment to South Asian art has redefined its visibility on the international stage. As a founding patron of the Kochi-Muziris Biennale, India’s most prominent recurring art exhibition, Lohia has played a significant role in bringing Indian art to the global forefront. The Biennale serves as a platform for contemporary Indian artists to showcase their work, engage with international audiences, and spark cross-cultural dialogue.
Lohia’s advocacy goes beyond patronage; she actively supports the preservation of India’s art heritage. Her pivotal role in establishing the India Foundation for the Arts Archive in Bangalore is a testament to her dedication. Since 2015, she has been a leading donor to this initiative, ensuring the preservation of invaluable Indian art resources for future generations.
Aarti Lohia’s Global Influence in the Art World
Aarti Lohia has cemented her influence on international councils and art institutions, shaping the global art landscape. Her roles span prestigious organizations such as the Victoria and Albert Museum’s International Council, Tate Modern’s South Asian Acquisitions Committee, and the Serpentine Gallery’s International Council.
She also holds a notable position within the National Gallery’s Modern and Contemporary Programme’s Advisory Panel as a Leading Philanthropic Partner. Her involvement with these organizations reflects her commitment to fostering artistic excellence and supporting emerging artists.
Through the SP Lohia Foundation, Aarti has empowered institutions worldwide, enabling them to explore diverse artistic perspectives. Her contributions have also facilitated opportunities for South Asian artists, ensuring their voices are represented in the art world’s most respected spaces. In 2022, for instance, the SP Lohia Foundation became the lead patron of the National Gallery’s modern and contemporary art programming, enabling the gallery to expand its reach.
A Champion for the South Asian Community
In addition to her art patronage, Aarti Lohia is an influential figure within the South Asian community in London. Her commitment to cultural connection is profound; she believes in building bridges with her heritage while engaging deeply with her community. Lohia’s efforts to promote South Asian culture abroad reflect her belief that art is a vehicle for unity and understanding.
One of her impactful initiatives was the establishment of a two-year fellowship at the National Gallery for Nalini Malani, a groundbreaking South Asian artist. Funded by the SP Lohia Foundation, this fellowship is a celebration of South Asian artistry and a testament to Lohia’s desire to champion diverse voices. Her support of the British Fashion Council Foundation further illustrates her commitment to showcasing South Asian creativity in all forms.
Balancing Roles: Art Patron, Philanthropist, and Mother
Aarti Lohia’s role as an art patron and philanthropist is deeply intertwined with her personal life. As a mother of three, she balances her responsibilities to her family with her commitment to the arts.
Her son, Sohum Lohia, a three-time under-12 British chess champion, has inspired her to take on an additional role as a “chess mum,” guiding and coaching him through his championship journey. Her admiration for chess is reflected in her art collection, with works related to the game by artists like Gabriel Orozco and Martin Parr adorning her collection.
Lohia’s ability to juggle her personal roles with her passion for art and philanthropy is inspiring. Her life exemplifies dedication, resilience, and an unwavering belief in the power of art and community.
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