About me

Hi, I am Chitra Raju.

Preserving Indian Traditions Through Modern Art

I am an artist deeply inspired by the vibrant traditions of Indian folk art, a visual language that carries centuries of stories, rituals, and cultural identity. My recent works are rooted in this rich heritage, drawing from traditional forms while reinterpreting them through a contemporary lens. Each painting I create is not only an artistic expression but also a narrative—one that reflects the spirit, symbolism, and everyday life embedded in India’s diverse folk tradition.

Over time, I have become increasingly committed to preserving and celebrating these art forms, many of which are slowly fading in the face of modernization. Through my work, I aim to keep these traditions alive by adapting them in ways that resonate with today’s audiences without losing their authenticity. My practice involves studying traditional motifs, techniques, and stories, and then reimagining them to create pieces that feel both timeless and relevant.

Living and working in Europe has given me a unique perspective and purpose. I see my art as a bridge between cultures—an opportunity to introduce and immerse European audiences in the richness of India’s heritage. Through exhibitions and my ongoing body of work, I strive to create awareness and appreciation for the depth, diversity, and beauty of Indian traditions, customs, and storytelling.

For me, painting is more than a creative process—it is a way of preserving history, honoring craftsmanship, and fostering cultural dialogue. Each piece I create carries the intention of connecting people across borders, inviting them to experience and celebrate the enduring legacy of Indian folk art,

BIOGRAPHY
Born in India in 1972, I was educated in New Delhi, where I studied Fine Art, Graphic Design, and Book Illustration and graduated in English (Hons). Before relocating to Germany in 2005, I worked with leading Indian newspapers and digital media platforms. Since then, I have been working together with my husband in our own advertising agency in Geilenkirchen.

During the first COVID-19 lockdown, I returned to painting, rekindling a lifelong connection to art. Working primarily with acrylics and oils, my practice draws from memory, ritual, care, and cultural continuity, expressed through a contemporary visual language inspired by Indian folk traditions.

EXHIBITIONS
2026 May: ‘Licht & Schatten’ Künstler-Forum Schloss Zweibrüggen in Carolus-Magnus-Centrum, Übach-Palenberg, Germany
2025 March : ‘Ethereal Beauty: A Celebration of Feminine Grace’, Villa El Martinete, Marbella, Spain
2025 May: ‘Kunsttour’ Kreis Heinsberg, Geilenkirchen, Germany
2025 July: ‘Elevated: The art of prestige’, Espace 22, Boulevard d’Italie, Monaco
2025 October: ‘Maastricht Gallery Weekend’, Vrijthof 19, Maastricht, Netherlands
2024 November : Private introductory exhibition in Dahlke, Hückelhoven, Germany


All images and my works on this website are personal and copyrighted © 2009-2026

9 Comments on “About me”

  1. Nice website chitra! way way better than all the previous ones, shows how far you have come… we all have… really like this one 🙂

    And like this section the most :)) touchwood!

    • Thank you..btw design is not mine..its just a template from wordpress..to which i have newly switched to..:p..each single word that you see is definately mine..hehe and the header too..:)

  2. Hi Chitra,

    I am your colleague from Indian Express I guess you remember. It’s really a nice site. The design, look n feel is quite clean. I like your site. Your work is always a inspiration to all.

    Thanks

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