Jency Sekaran

As a first generation Indian American, my work explores how I find balance amongst these two identities.  There is a struggle to adhere to the cultural standards of my Indian heritage while wanting to adopt Western ideals as well.  Growing up, Indian culture felt strict compared to the rebelliousness of Western culture.  It was the force of these two ideals that led me to study both art and science.

The figures in my work, always different shades of brown, break the standards of Indian culture through Westernized poses, hair length and color, clothing and tattoos. Patterns and designs become anchors in my work, seen as organic chemistry and henna designs which have no beginning or end symbolizing the unity of two identities.

I utilize many different processes in my work such as printmaking, illustration, and embroidery, often mixing them together.  Just as I offer society a different perspective as a first generation American, I seek to gain different perspectives through the practice of many art forms.

Jency Sekaran an Indian American artist and scientist living and working in New York City. She received a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Augusta University and a Masters Degree in Public Health from Georgia State University. Sekaran currently works as a Research Scientist for the New York City Department of Health as an epidemiologist.