Indian artist and designer Sonal Ambani made waves for her exhibition in Venice, held during the 60th Venice Biennale. Her sculpture, Slings and Arrows of Outrageous Fortune, drew attention to gender inequality and the fight for equal wages.
It was shown at the European Cultural Center’s Palazzo Mora, and was inspired by a speech by economic historian Claudia Goldin, one of the few women to ever win the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences for her research on the labor market for women in 2023.
“It’s my way of continuing the conversation,” said Ambani, who recently won the MJF Art Prize, a prominent art award in India. “Her work on the gender pay gap is not just data—it’s a mirror reflecting systemic inequalities that have persisted for centuries.”
The artwork shows a stainless-steel bull pierced with red arrows. “It was a testament to how powerful art and conversation can be in driving change,” she said. “When women speak, the world listens. And when women speak, the world changes.”
Going forward, Ambani envisions a world where women can ensure they get paid fairly and equally. “Women must advocate for transparency in pay structures and demand equal opportunities,” she said. “It’s also crucial for women to educate themselves on their worth in the market. Mentorship and networking play pivotal roles in breaking glass ceilings.”
Ambani also recently released a line of handbags called the “Happiness Series,” each of which comes with a special message. In each handbag, she inserts a note asking women to get their annual health check-up.
“For me, empowering women to prioritize their well-being is as critical as addressing issues like the gender pay gap—it’s about creating a world where women can thrive fully, without barriers,” she said.
While men have tailored suits, women can now have tailor made handbags for her “Happiness Series,” which is made to order on her website and her gallery Samara Art Gallery in Ahmedabad, India. Ambani doesn’t believe in mass production, but rather takes a bespoke approach.
“I firmly believe in maintaining a personalized approach, as these handbags are designed to reflect the individuality of those who commission them—making each one a unique piece of functional art,” she said.
The idea for her handbag line started back in 2018. “I wanted to create something that seamlessly blended functionality with artistic expression in a piece that could be both practical and a statement of beauty,” said Ambani.
Initially, these handbags were created for herself. They were a fun, creative outlet when she wasn’t working on larger sculptures. But their popularity grew and Ambani started making them for others.
Over the past few months, she has devoted more time to her handbag line, refining their designs. “This renewed focus has been exhilarating, and it feels like the perfect moment to share these bespoke creations with the world,” said Ambani.
“Each handbag reflects the same dedication to craftsmanship and artistry that defines my larger body of work, making them both functional and timeless pieces of art.”
The process starts with a consultation where she learns about the client’s preferences. “From intricate design details to color palettes and fabric choices, this collaborative approach ensures that each handbag is not just a reflection of the client’s individuality, but also a deeply meaningful project for me as an artist,” explains Ambani.
“These handbags go beyond being mere accessories; they are wearable statements of artistry, seamlessly blending form, function, and personal expression,” she explains.
Her handbags are made from upcycled suede velvet, upcycled leather, denim and stainless steel. “Each bag has a sculptural quality, featuring intricate patterns that sets them apart, giving them the aesthetic of wearable art,” said Ambani.
Customizable handbags allow for a client’s initials and select custom fabrics and colors. “I want each piece to be a perfect reflection of a client’s individuality,” she said. “Every detail, from the choice of materials to the final design, is tailored to create a piece that is as unique as its owner.”
From symbols like leaves, smiley faces, polo symbols and symbols of what each individual is passionate about, each handbag design is meant to reflect one’s own personality. “It comes from the idea of carrying a unique story wherever you go,” she said.
“Art and fashion are inseparable; fashion is art; it’s an expression of identity, creativity, and culture, much like sculpture or painting,” said Ambani. “Fashion and art both push boundaries, and I love being part of that dialogue.”
Follow @sonalambani.art on Instagram.