Today we’d like to introduce you to Thanooja Ganta.
Hi Thanooja, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Sometimes I wonder—did I choose art, or did art choose me?
My journey started with mugulu, the traditional floor art outside our home in India. As a child, I filled notebooks with drawings and played with colors. In college, that creative spark turned into nail art. After moving to the U.S., I dabbled in clay and pencil sketches—just for myself.
Then one day, I saw a beautiful painting that inspired me deeply. It wasn’t something I could bring home, so I decided to create something of my own. That’s when I made my first Lippan art Ganesha—blending clay, mirrors into something soulful and healing.
I began gifting handmade earrings to friends. They loved them—and soon, they started asking me to make wall art for their homes. My very first commission was a custom 18” wall mirror and a 12” peacock piece. While working on it, a friend invited me to set up a stall—and that’s how PinkzArtGallery was born.
Lippan art came into my life unexpectedly. I’m completely self-taught, learning through online videos and hands-on experimentation. As a homemaker returning to work after raising a child, what started as passion slowly became purpose.
I wanted my art to reach people from different backgrounds, so I explored local events, online platforms, and coffee shop displays. I learned everything on my own—how to sell, present, price, and grow. There were times I almost gave up. But every time I came back, something beautiful happened.
One of my favorite memories is when a woman found my work through a local marketplace and reached out for a custom piece. The joy on her face when she picked it up—I’ll never forget it.
I don’t repeat designs unless a client requests it. Each piece is original and personal—crafted with intention, meaning, and care. I create art that lives in someone’s home, heart, and story
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road definitely hasn’t been smooth—but it’s been meaningful.
As a self-taught artist and full-time mom returning to work, I had to figure everything out from scratch. I didn’t have a background in business or marketing, so I learned through trial and error—how to price my work, how to connect with customers, and how to present myself.
There were times I felt discouraged—when things didn’t sell or when I compared myself to others with more followers or resources. Social media can make you question your value, but I reminded myself that I’m not here for likes—I’m here for real connections and meaningful art.
Running a one-woman business means I do everything—creating, packing, photographing, handling clients, setting up at events. It gets overwhelming. There were moments I thought of quitting. But every time I came back, a new door opened: a kind message, a surprise sale, or a happy client who reminded me why I started.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is to trust the process. It’s not easy, but it’s deeply rewarding.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
At PinkzArtGallery, I create handcrafted Lippan art—an ancient Indian mud and mirror artform—reimagined for modern, soulful homes.
I specialize in custom statement pieces—especially for entryways, meditation corners, and upscale living spaces. I also offer ready-to-hang artworks. Each piece is unique, designed with care and healing energy. I don’t repeat designs unless requested, because I believe each home deserves something personal.
What I’m most proud of is building this path from the ground up. I’m completely self-taught, learning through online videos and hands-on exploration. Everything—from creating art to learning how to sell it—was built step by step.
What sets my work apart is the emotion and intention behind each piece. I blend tradition with elegance, heritage with healing. My art isn’t just something to look at—it’s something to feel. That’s what makes it special.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is to trust the timing of your path and honor your pace.
When I started PinkzArtGallery, I often felt like I was behind—especially when I looked at others with bigger followings, faster sales, or more resources. But over time, I realized that growth isn’t just about numbers—it’s about depth, intention, and connection.
Every step I took, even the slow or quiet ones, taught me something—how to listen to clients, how to improve my art, how to stay true to my style. I’ve learned that consistency, authenticity, and patience matter far more than overnight success.
Another big lesson? Never underestimate the power of your own hands and heart. I didn’t go to art school, I didn’t have a business plan, and I didn’t have a team—but I had passion, and I showed up every day. That built something real.
Now, I celebrate small wins as much as big ones, and I remind myself often: the journey is the reward.
Pricing:
- Custom Lippan art starts at $50, depending on size, design, and mirror/clay work.
- Ready-to-ship pieces on Etsy range from $20 to $400.
- I also create large statement pieces for entryways, meditation corners, and special gifts — each one is unique and made with love.
- I’m happy to work within client budgets when possible. For example, if someone is inspired by a high-end piece, I may simplify the design while still keeping it beautiful and meaningful. I never compromise on the final look or customer satisfaction.
- Free consultations included, and every piece is carefully packed and ready to hang.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pinkzartgallery?igsh=MTdzbG1kOHZpbDF2dw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1AVcjn3Qxr/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@pinkzartgallery?si=3weoKWpOrILD3ZpZ
- Other: https://pinkzartgallery.etsy.com/
Image Credits
Divya vasudevn
