Meet Manasi Arya | Teacher, Artist, Content Creator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Manasi Arya and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Manasi, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
When embarking on the journey of starting my own business, my thought process was driven by a strong desire to foster representation for brown women and South Asians in a subtle yet impactful manner. I wanted to create something that would be easily embraced by individuals from diverse backgrounds. As I began this endeavor, I embraced a go-with-the-flow mindset, allowing my ideas to evolve organically. The overarching goal was to develop an empowering artistic platform that would resonate with people of all walks of life, fostering excitement and pride in one’s identity. Additionally, a significant motivation behind starting my business was the profound impact art had on my own mental health. I recognized the seamless harmony between my passion for art and the fulfillment of my entrepreneurial aspirations, and thus, everything fell into place seamlessly.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is a reflection of my journey as an Indian American woman navigating the complexities of growing up with two distinct cultures. I have always created art that combines elements of my two identities, addressing topics that have personally affected me, such as colorism, societal pressures for early marriage, and the challenges of embracing curly hair. Through my art, I have found a platform to not only showcase my creativity but also address issues that are close to my heart.

Getting to where I am today professionally has been a challenging process. It required time, dedication, and perseverance. It wasn’t always easy, and there were moments of frustration when things didn’t go as planned. However, I overcame these challenges by working hard, remaining consistent, and dedicating time to what mattered most to me, even if my focus shifted along the way.

I am most proud of the art that I create and the enjoyment I derive from creating content that is humorous or fashion-oriented. Along this journey, I have learned valuable lessons. Firstly, staying true to oneself is crucial because authenticity shines through in one’s content. Secondly, creating things that I personally resonate with, rather than trying to cater to others’ expectations, is essential. Thirdly, it’s important to take breaks when creativity wanes and to prioritize self-care, allowing space for rejuvenation and pursuing other interests. Fourthly, surrounding oneself with people who genuinely support and uplift is vital, ensuring that one’s shine is not diminished. Lastly, participating in events and activities that genuinely excite and energize me, rather than exhaust me, is crucial for maintaining a positive mindset.

Ultimately, through my art and brand, I want people to see themselves as beautiful, unique individuals and to embrace all aspects of their identity. I want to inspire self-acceptance and confidence in others, encouraging them to celebrate their own uniqueness.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting NYC for a week, I would ensure they have an incredible time exploring the city. Here’s a sample itinerary of some must-visit places, restaurants, and activities:

Day 1:
– Start the day at The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The MET) to immerse ourselves in incredible art and culture.
– Have lunch at a restaurant in Chelsea Market, enjoying the diverse culinary offerings.
– Walk the High Line, a beautiful elevated park with stunning views of the city.
– Explore the trendy neighborhood of Chelsea and visit the Sabyasachi store for some exquisite Indian fashion.
– Enjoy dinner at Planta, a fantastic vegan restaurant known for its innovative plant-based cuisine.

Day 2:
– Begin the day with a visit to the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA) to appreciate modern and contemporary art.
– Take a stroll across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, capturing breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline.
– Explore the vibrant neighborhood of Williamsburg in Brooklyn, known for its trendy boutiques, cafes, and street art.
– Indulge in dinner at Spicy Moon, a popular spot for delicious Sichuan cuisine.

Day 3:
– Start the day with a relaxing visit to Central Park, enjoying a leisurely walk or bike ride through its beautiful landscapes.
– Have a picnic lunch in the park or grab a bite at one of the nearby cafes.
– Visit Washington Square Park, a lively spot with street performers and a vibrant atmosphere.
– Catch a Broadway show in the evening for a truly memorable experience.

Day 4:
– Spend the day exploring Industry City in Brooklyn, a bustling complex of shops, eateries, and creative spaces.
– Enjoy lunch at Time Out Market, a curated food hall featuring a variety of cuisines.
– Take a walk along the scenic Brooklyn waterfront and enjoy the views.
– Have dinner at Lilia, a renowned Italian restaurant known for its handmade pasta and delectable dishes.

Day 5:
– Visit Little Island, a unique park and performance venue on the Hudson River, featuring stunning gardens and live events.
– Explore the trendy neighborhood of Meatpacking District, known for its fashionable boutiques and trendy bars.
– Enjoy dinner at Ippudo, a popular ramen restaurant, for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Day 6:
– Start the day with a visit to the charming Butterfield Market, known for its gourmet food selection and delicious pastries.
– Head to a rooftop bar like Mr. Purple to enjoy breathtaking views of the city while sipping on refreshing cocktails.
– Experience a rooftop yoga class or rooftop cinema at The Ready Rooftop for a unique and memorable activity.

Day 7:
– Explore the diverse culinary scene of Koreatown (Ktown), trying different Korean restaurants and enjoying delicious flavors.
– Satisfy our sweet tooth with dessert at Malai Ice Cream or any bubble tea place.
– End the trip with a Mediterranean feast at Yara Mediterranean, savoring flavorful dishes and enjoying the vibrant ambiance.

Of course, this itinerary is just a starting point, and there are countless other exciting places, people, and activities to discover in New York City. It’s a city that never fails to offer fun, interesting, and memorable experiences at every turn.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to dedicate my shoutout to my parents, brother, family, and friends. They have played a significant role in my journey and deserve recognition for their unwavering support and encouragement throughout the various changes and transitions I’ve experienced since college. From shifting career paths to pursuing my dreams as an artist and small business owner, my parents have been incredible pillars of support. They have embraced my decisions wholeheartedly and have consistently shown belief in my abilities.

Furthermore, I am incredibly fortunate to have a group of friends who have been amazing throughout my journey. They have not only believed in me but have also loved me unconditionally. Their unwavering support and willingness to stand by me in every endeavor has been instrumental in my growth and success. Their presence in my life has provided me with the strength and motivation to pursue my dreams with confidence.

To my parents and friends, I am deeply grateful for their constant love, encouragement, and belief in me. They have played an integral role in shaping my story, and their presence has made all the difference.

Website: artwithmanasi.com

Instagram: instagram.com/manasiarya

Other: tik tok: tiktok.com/artwithmanasi

Image Credits
All photos are by @nivedhamphotography All art is by @manasiarya (me)