Pooja Pawaskar sculpts not just wood and metal but narratives of self and imperfection. Born in Mumbai in 1990, her artistry is a journey from vibrant Indian origins to the calm of Ottawa, Canada, guided by the lessons of her grandfather, a craftsman who taught her to see wood as a partner in creation. With an architectural grounding from Mumbai University and a Master’s in Furniture Design from SCAD, USA, Pooja skillfully bridges her robust design background with her sculptural endeavors, ensuring that her creations not only embody the wabi-sabi philosophy celebrating life’s natural flaws but also maintain a dialogue between sculpture and design. This dual identity as both sculptor and designer enriches her work, making it a tactile odyssey of authenticity that resonates with viewers, inviting them to embrace their own unique stories through the medium of her soulful art.
Pooja’s journey has led her to significant milestones: participating in the group show ‘Upon Further Reflection’ at 31 Phillip Lim during NYCxDESIGN, showcasing alongside Lori Harrison in the ‘Connection with Trees’ exhibit during DesignTO 2024, and speaking on ‘Reverie’ at CreativeMornings Ottawa. Her work is more than visual; it’s an invitation into a world where function meets emotion, where viewers are encouraged to explore the depth of their own experiences in the presence of her creations.