Born and raised in Madagascar, artist Tara Shakti’s exploratory art practice is one that is constantly evolving. After studying art in Florence, Italy and later on at the École Drouot in Paris, Shakti has developed her experimental art style that goes beyond visually stunning work. What is underneath the surface? Shakti seeks to address that question with the ever evolving natural and spiritual approach through her richly hued paintings. At the core of her work is a heartfelt and emotionally driven set of themes that reels viewers into her creative universe.
Shakti invites us into her studio to explain the why’s and how’s of her art practice.
About the Artist
Tara Shakti, an artist born and raised in Madagascar, draws deep inspiration from her cultural heritage and the vibrant landscapes of her homeland. From a young age, she immersed herself in creative expression, influenced by the rich colors and traditions of the island. Her formal education began with a focus on Fine Arts in Italy, particularly in Florence, where the Renaissance masterpieces shaped her technical skills and artistic vision. Later, she expanded her horizons at the École Drouot in Paris, where she embraced avant-garde movements, adding depth and experimentation to her evolving style. This combination of Malagasy roots and European artistic training defines the unique blend seen in her work.
Tara's contributions to the art world have been widely recognized through several prestigious awards. She was honored with the Medal of Recognition from the Embassy of Madagascar in Rome for her role as a cultural ambassador, and received the Leonardo Da Vinci Award in Florence for her creative innovation. Contemporary Art Curator Magazine named her "Artist of the Future" for her contemporary vision, while the Zama Art Award, presented by the Madagascar diaspora in Paris, celebrated her efforts in promoting Madagascar's culture internationally. Her artwork, "Transmutation, " earned a Special Prize at the Carrousel du Louvre in Paris, further cementing her reputation as an artist who transcends boundaries.
Recently, Tara was appointed Curator for the Malagasy Artists Collective at the 2024 Zama Diaspora event, a testament to her growing influence in the art world. In November, Shakti will exhibit at the Biennale of Dakar for the Off event with Africa La Renaissance. She has exhibited her work at renowned venues such as the Florence Biennale, Carrousel du Louvre, and the World Art Fair in New York, with each exhibition elevating her status as an international artist. Her vibrant compositions, deeply rooted in her heritage, continue to captivate audiences worldwide, making her a powerful voice for Madagascar's cultural and artistic legacy.
“I am fascinated by the idea of transmutation—how everyday materials, ideas, or emotions can undergo profound changes to reveal something extraordinary.”
— Tara Shakti
Artist Statement
My art is a quest to capture the invisible forces that shape both the natural world and the inner landscapes of the human spirit. Growing up in Madagascar, I’ve always been inspired by the island’s raw beauty, its vibrant colors, and the deep-rooted cultural traditions that speak to the cycles of life, transformation, and rebirth. These elements form the core of my artistic language, where I seek to merge the organic with the mystical.
I am fascinated by the idea of transmutation—how everyday materials, ideas, or emotions can undergo profound changes to reveal something extraordinary. This theme is a constant in my work, as I strive to evoke feelings of metamorphosis, healing, and evolution. Whether through painting, mixed media, or installation, I create pieces that invite viewers to journey through layers of meaning, where they can encounter both the familiar and the unknown.
The recent opportunity to send one of my artworks to the Moon stands as a profound moment in my career. To me, it symbolizes the extension of my artistic exploration beyond earthly boundaries, into the vastness of the cosmos. This endeavor aligns perfectly with my belief that art can transcend time and space, touching on universal truths that unite us all. My work is not just a reflection of my experiences but an invitation to explore the mysteries of existence and the endless potential for change and growth.
Inside Shakti’s studio.
Images, bio, + artist statement are courtesy of the artist.