In “Milkmade”, Riya Chandiramani explores the relationship between nourishment, female representation, and power. The artist combines her thoroughly explored motif of gender centric paradigms through the intersection of capitalism and the patriarchy, with propagandistic representations of universally loved brands. Through the utilisation of figures, slogans and iconography stylistically painted after Indo-Persian miniatures and communist propaganda, Chandiramani’s work is saturated in symbolic undertones.
The series is a profound exploration of societal constructs around gender, deeply rooted in mythology and religion, and their lasting impact on modern perceptions. This body of work strives to dismantle negative or outdated stereotypes, acting as a catalyst for societal progress toward gender equality.
The inception of this series was sparked by a simple yet revealing observation: the predominance of solely male mascots on cereal boxes. This realization led to a personal and artistic journey for the creator—a quest to respect and appreciate her own femininity while challenging society’s perceptions of the female form and the broader role of women. The artist delves into the origins of these perceptions, the narratives instilled in us from childhood, and their pervasive influence today. Historically, storytelling has often marginalized female voices, shaping roles and ideals in ways that the series seeks to question and recreate.
Through “Milkmade”, the artist highlights the influence of stories and myths in shaping beliefs and behaviors, and draws attention to goddesses revered for their virtues. By juxtaposing these ancient narratives with contemporary societal norms, the series critiques how women remain secondary in a world historically designed by and for men.
