In the realm of cultural innovation and social change, Devyani Saltzman stands as a beacon of inspiration and transformation. Born into a lineage of creativity and diversity, Saltzman’s upbringing, coupled with her academic pursuits, laid the foundation for her illustrious career as a writer, curator, and cultural programmer.
Saltzman’s journey is a testament to the power of embracing one’s heritage while forging a path of one’s own. Born in 1979 to acclaimed parents—film directors Paul Saltzman and Deepa Mehta—Devyani Saltzman inherited a legacy steeped in storytelling and artistic expression.
Her multicultural background, with roots in both Jewish Ukrainian and Indian Hindu traditions, enriched her perspective from an early age.
Early Life and Education of Devyani Saltzman
Saltzman’s academic journey led her to Oxford University, where she pursued a degree in Human Sciences, specializing in sociology and anthropology. This rigorous academic foundation equipped her with the analytical tools necessary to explore the complexities of human interaction, identity, and culture.
Writing Career
Saltzman’s literary prowess shines through her acclaimed memoir, “Shooting Water: A Memoir of Second Chances, Family, and Filmmaking.” This poignant reflection on the making of her mother’s film, “Water,” garnered praise from critics and readers alike, earning starred reviews and accolades from esteemed publications.
In addition to her memoir, Saltzman’s writings have graced the pages of prestigious publications such as The Globe and Mail, The National Post, and The Walrus Magazine. Her diverse portfolio spans from intimate interviews with notable figures to thought-provoking articles on social issues, showcasing her versatility as a writer.
Current Projects
As a dynamic force in the cultural sphere, Devyani Saltzman’s impact extends far beyond the written word. Her role as a founding Curator at Luminato, Toronto’s International Arts Festival, underscores her commitment to fostering creativity and dialogue on a global scale.
Saltzman’s influence reverberates through her involvement in various arts initiatives, including Project Bookmark Canada and The Toronto Museum Project. Her tenure as Director of Literary Arts at Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity further solidified her reputation as a visionary leader, overseeing groundbreaking programming and public events.
In 2018, Saltzman assumed the role of Director of Public Programming at the Art Gallery of Ontario, where she continued to push boundaries and redefine the intersection of art and community engagement. Her collaborative spirit and unwavering dedication to cultural enrichment have earned her recognition as a trailblazer in the field.
The Future of Cultural Leadership
As Devyani Saltzman embarks on her next chapter as the Director of Arts and Participation at the Barbican, her vision for the future is as ambitious as it is inclusive. With a focus on championing diverse voices and fostering meaningful connections, she seeks to create a space that transcends geographical boundaries and resonates with audiences worldwide.
Saltzman’s forthcoming book, “EXITING: Towards a Future of Work that Serves Us All,” promises to ignite dialogue and inspire action on pressing issues facing our society.
Through her writing, speaking engagements, and collaborative projects, Devyani Saltzman continues to push the boundaries of conventional thinking, challenging us to envision a more equitable and compassionate world.
In her own words, Saltzman encapsulates the essence of her mission: “I really believe this generation of leadership can envision not only the best of creative practice and programming, but embody a healthier way of thinking and working, especially for the communities we serve and our own staff.”
Also Read: Deepa Mehta: Redefining Boundaries Through the Lens of Cinema