Beyond Walls: An Exclusive Conversation with Nafeesa Patronia

At Elisium Art, we believe that art doesn’t just exist in galleries; it lives through the vision, dedication, and passion of the people who bring it to the world. That’s why we’re launching our Curator, Collector, Art Personalities Spotlight Series, a collection of in-depth conversations with art curators, collectors, and industry leaders who shape the way we experience original artworks. 

For our first feature, we sat down with Nafeesa Patronia, Curator and Head of Artist Network in India for Elisium Art. Known for her humility, passion for promoting emerging talent, and ability to weave stories through exhibitions, Nafeesa has become an influential figure in the Indian art ecosystem. 

A Humble Beginning, Shaped by Mentors 

When asked what first drew her into the world of art and curation, Nafeesa smiles. “I came to this field as a complete fresher—I learned everything on the job,” she recalls. She credits much of her growth to two influential mentors: Mrs. Babita Gupta, a respected figure in the Indian art scene, and the late Ms. Alka Raghuvanshi, a pioneering curator, critic, and author who championed Indian art on the global stage. 

Alka Raghuvanshi is widely recognised for her role in conceptualising landmark exhibitions and her tireless advocacy for artists, especially emerging ones. “Their love for art and their way of dealing with artists—especially upcoming ones—made me humble,” Nafeesa explains. “It encouraged me to promote them the way they did.” 

Art that Breathes Life into Canvas  

When asked about artists or artworks, especially those that profoundly influenced her early passion for art and how their work resonated with her on a personal level, Nafeesa was thrilled to list out the names of some Indian artists: Hemant Rao, Taslim Jamal, Pravin Utge, and Deepak Sonar. “I am an avid admirer of their work,” she says. “Each one of them has a unique style and technicality—they don’t just paint, they bring life to a canvas.” 

Well, this appreciation and profound admiration for diverse artistic voices continues to shape her curatorial vision, ensuring that exhibitions are more than visual displays; they are living, breathing narratives and passing out legacies that will be carried out for centuries, reflect identities and build a world that deserves more art than it already has.  

From curating inside the head to the Walls of the Galleries  

Nafeesa’s curatorial practice spans different contexts. When asked shaping an exhibition, where does she usually begin? How does she start with a central concept, a particular artist, or the unique qualities of the space? 

“I look at the space first. My mind starts placing the works on the empty walls, imagining the entire exhibition in my head before it even goes up physically,” she shares. This intuitive yet structured approach ensures that each artwork speaks clearly, both in isolation and as part of a larger story.  

The Evolving Role of the Curator in India 

Beyond selecting and arranging artworks, Nafeesa believes excellent curation comes down to engagement and storytelling. “There are some great curators in India, and I still have a lot to learn from them. However, any art show should keep the onlookers engaged—they should go back to a particular work to enjoy it again. Great curation for me is a story woven around the artist and the works displayed.” 

This belief ties directly into Elisium Art’s mission of offering original art for sale that doesn’t just decorate homes but enriches lives. If you would like to understand more about the value of original works, read our in-depth guide on Original Art vs. Prints: Understanding Value. 

A Curator’s Dream Project – Still in the Making 

When asked if there’s a recent exhibition or project that felt especially meaningful, Nafeesa’s answer is refreshingly honest. “I am still waiting to get an opportunity to curate some of my favourite artists’ works—and for people to see that show exactly how I want them to see it.” 

It’s a statement that reflects both her patience and her perfectionism and qualities that ensure her future exhibitions will be worth the wait. 

The Joy of Being Surprised 

Even after years of working with artists, Nafeesa still finds herself surprised. Abstract art, in particular, holds a special place in her heart. “Some abstracts surprise and excite me… like Bharat Jain’s works—they are so different yet so Indian,” she says. It’s this mix of unexpected creativity and cultural rootedness that keeps her passion alive. 

Find  Bharat Jain’s amazing works on Elisium Art. 

Looking Ahead 

When it comes to future projects, Nafeesa is taking a thoughtful approach. “I have some artists who want me to curate their show,” she says. “I’ll decide the themes and collaborations once I have the works in my hand—that’s when my mind is in productive mode.” 

Her excitement is contagious, hinting at exhibitions that will push boundaries while staying true to her storytelling approach. 

Professional Spotlight: ART OF INDIA Project and more 

Nafeesa’s experience spans some of India’s leading Galleries and Institutions, including Art Spice Gallery, Art Heritage Gallery, DAG, and her current role as Gallery Manager at Surrendra Paul Art Gallery & Sangeet Shyamala, New Delhi.  

She has curated the exhibition, Esoteric by Mr. Singh and coordinated high-profile shows, attended by the International Dignitaries, including the King and Queen of Sweden at Drishyakala—her journey reflects both depth and versatility. She also worked as Project Manager for ART OF INDIA by The Times of India at the Visual Art gallery.  

We are amazed by Nafeesa’s dedication, her embrace of creative liberty, and the discipline she brings to her work. We truly admire her work. We hope to hear more inspiring conversations from her in the future. We hope her work continues to inspire the art world, particularly for new and aspiring curators. 

This conversation with Nafeesa Patronia is just the beginning of our Curator Spotlight Series. Stay tuned for more interviews with the visionaries shaping the future of art both in India and around the world.