"I have always found ways to stay connected with my Indian cultural roots after I left India and came to the US in 2004. For example, in my initial years in the US, as a visual designer, I helped promote Indian cultural organizations by designing their print and web campaigns. Later as I pursued my career in visual arts I made art inspired by core ideas and philosophies from Indian culture.
My first initiative towards community arts education in Manhattan started in 2013 where for 4-years I conducted a creative festival in Manhattan called the Art Fast. This 5-day festival of music, dance, and visual arts revolved around the essence of the Indian festival of Navarathri. This program was a big inspiration to start Akṣarā. I launched Akṣarā in March 2021 envisioning it to be a hub for Indian cultural learning through the arts. I am looking to build Akṣarā to be a creative space for South Indian Americans and people of all other communities to come together through a shared learning experience about Indian culture."
Ms. Moorthy has 20+ years of experience in the creative industry (interaction design and visual arts). She has a Masters in Art Education as Community Practice and a Masters in Business Administration. She is still active with her visual art practice (www.jaymoorthy.com) as she continues to exhibit her works and curate shows.
Conducting an online kite-making workshop for mid-schoolers in a California school
Facilitating kids to draw a chalk mural using symbols and motifs inspired by the festival of Diwali
Conducting a creative fashion workshop for adults as part of Art Fast at the Manhattan Movement Arts Center, NYC
Celebrating Indian victory by playing the Dol Drums at the World cup in UK
Work-in-progress for an art installation in Ms. Moorthy's solo art exhibit at A.I.R. Gallery, Brooklyn, NY
A Mehandi art performance for the Asian-Pacific Islander month on Ellis Island, NY
Facilitating a creative art workshop for teens at the Kochi-Muzris Biennale, India
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In 2023 Akṣarā is a participant in SU-CASA, a community arts engagement program at a senior center in New York City. This program is supported by public funds from the New York City Council, in partnership with the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs (DCLA) and the Department for the Aging (DFTA).