Mirrors: Distance Between Worlds Exhibition in New Delhi

The opening of Mirrors: Distance Between Worlds, a compelling exhibition featuring diaspora artists Shana Sood and Yolanda Peña Mazzoni, witnessed an enthusiastic response from art lovers, collectors, curators, artists and members of the cultural fraternity at Bikaner House, New Delhi. The exhibition, curated by acclaimed art critic and curator Georgina Maddox, sparked engaging conversations around migration, memory, identity and cultural belonging.

Bringing together two artists from vastly different cultural backgrounds, the exhibition presents a powerful visual dialogue between Indian-born, US-based artist Shana Sood and Cuban-born, US-based artist Yolanda Peña Mazzoni. Through realist paintings, the exhibition explores how personal histories, heritage and womanhood intersect across continents, revealing both the differences and shared emotional experiences of the Indian and Cuban diasporas.

Shana Sood’s paintings draw deeply from her Indian roots, portraying women with strength, dignity and emotional depth. Her canvases, rich in colour and symbolism, reflect the experience of living between two worlds while holding on to memories of India. “My work reflects a longing that is both personal and collective,” says Sood. “It expresses the duality of identity as someone who lives in the USA but carries a vivid vision of India.”

Yolanda Peña Mazzoni’s works centre on the theme of human connection, documenting relationships, places and moments that shape individual identity. Through intimate and thoughtful compositions, she explores the emotional landscapes created by migration and belonging. “Painting gives me a way to document my life,” says Mazzoni. “It helps me understand what truly matters.”

Curator Georgina Maddox notes that the exhibition is a thoughtful exploration of the subtle cultural interplay between two women artists who, despite growing up in different parts of the world, are united by shared questions of identity, memory and belonging. Their works create a visual conversation that bridges countries, generations and lived experiences.

Mirrors: Distance Between Worlds reflects the layered realities of diaspora life, highlighting both cultural contrasts and shared human emotions. The exhibition offers visitors an opportunity to experience two distinct artistic voices that come together through themes of migration, resilience, womanhood and the search for home.

The exhibition continues till 29th July at Bikaner House, New Delhi.