In the vibrant world of cultural arts and performance, few individuals shine as brightly as Sunita Mukhi. As a cultural producer, theater/performance artist, and interdisciplinary performance scholar, Mukhi has left an indelible mark on the global arts community.
Her illustrious career spans continents and disciplines, and she currently serves as the Associate Dean for the Arts and Culture Cluster at the School of Design and Arts, De La Salle College of St. Benilde in Manila, Philippines.
Sunita Mukhi: A Visionary Leader in Arts and Culture
Sunita Mukhi’s role at De La Salle College of St. Benilde is nothing short of transformative. As the Associate Dean, she oversees various departments including Arts Management, Dance, Design Foundation, Music Production, Production Design, and Theater Arts.
Her leadership is characterized by an unwavering commitment to fostering creativity and innovation. Mukhi’s vision has propelled the institution to new heights, creating a dynamic environment where students and faculty alike can thrive.
Her dedication to arts education is evident in the myriad of academic and artistic projects she directs. These initiatives not only enhance the educational experience but also contribute to the cultural tapestry of the community. Mukhi’s approach integrates practical experience with theoretical knowledge, preparing her students to become future leaders in the arts.
The Legacy of Charles B. Wang Center
Before her tenure at De La Salle, Sunita Mukhi was the pioneering Director of the Charles B. Wang Center’s Asian/American Programming at the State University of New York in Stony Brook.
For a decade, Sunita Mukhi spearheaded innovative programs that celebrated the richness of Asian and Asian American cultures. Under her leadership, the center hosted over 600 programs, each designed to promote a nuanced and humane understanding of Asianness.
These programs ranged from art exhibitions and film screenings to lectures and performances, all aimed at fostering cross-cultural dialogue and appreciation. Mukhi’s ability to curate content that resonates with diverse audiences is a testament to her deep understanding of cultural dynamics and her exceptional organizational skills.
Promoting Asianness at the Asia Society
Mukhi’s impact on cultural institutions extends beyond academia. She served as Program Coordinator at the Asia Society in New York for six years, where she continued her mission of promoting Asian cultures. At the Asia Society, she curated events that highlighted the multifaceted nature of Asianness, bridging gaps between different communities and fostering a spirit of inclusivity.
Academic Contributions and Literary Achievements
In addition to her roles in cultural institutions, Sunita Mukhi has made significant contributions to academia. At Stony Brook University’s Asian and Asian American Studies Department, she developed and taught courses on Performance, Cinema, and the South Asian Diaspora.
Her academic work is characterized by a deep engagement with cultural narratives and a commitment to exploring the intersections of identity, performance, and diaspora.
Her book, “Doing the Desi Thing: Performing Indianness in New York City,” published by Taylor and Francis, is a seminal work based on her dissertation for her doctorate in Performance Studies from New York University.
The book provides an insightful analysis of how South Asian identities are performed and perceived in a metropolitan context, making it a valuable resource for scholars and practitioners alike.
A Multifaceted Artist
Sunita Mukhi is not only a scholar and administrator but also a passionate artist. Her poems have been featured in anthologies such as “Contours of the Heart” and “Desilicious: Sexy, Subversive, South Asian,” showcasing her literary prowess. She has also performed, directed, and choreographed numerous theatrical, television, and film productions across Manila, the United States, Mexico, and Singapore.
Mukhi’s artistic endeavors are driven by a desire to explore themes of the Asian mythic, female empowerment, and redemption through the arts. Her work resonates with audiences worldwide, reflecting her unique ability to blend traditional and contemporary elements in her performances.
Dreaming and Scheming Future Endeavors
Despite her numerous achievements, Sunita Mukhi remains ever-ambitious. She is continually dreaming and scheming grand endeavors that push the boundaries of arts and culture. Her future projects promise to delve deeper into the themes that have always fascinated her, offering new insights and fostering greater understanding through the arts.
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