The Student Spotlight series aims to highlight the work of current MFA students, asking them to share thoughts on their practice by answering curated and peer-submitted questions.
Ruhee Mehendi Maknojia ‘19 is an MFA Visual Arts student in her first year at Columbia.
What themes or subjects are you currently addressing in your work?
A few themes and concepts that my work explores are human rights and human conditions. I often grapple with the reality that the person I am is dependent on the social and moral compass of the society around me. Recently, I have become fascinated with post-Cold War politics in Central Asia and the American flag.
What materials are you working with at the moment?
Currently, I am working with print and oil paint.
Is there any theme or medium you’re interested in exploring in the future?
For me, exploration of material and ideas happen in-tandem with current events.
Who are artists or works of art that you find yourself coming back to, that challenge or inspire you? Who are contemporary artists that are doing interesting work?
Jon Kessler is an artist and faculty member at Columbia who I respect. I believe his work, ethics, and principles are ahead of our time. When I look at Kessler’s work, the word that comes to mind is “multi-dimensional.” Unfortunately, I haven't yet had the chance to take a course taught by him.
How do you think artists can continue growing as artists?
By reading and participating in current affairs.
