Today we’d like to introduce you to Nirali Schrader
Hi Nirali, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’m an Asian Indian born artist who moved to America in 2007 to earn a double Master’s degree in Education. Teaching in classrooms helped me realize that I wanted to continue to instruct and inspire but in a more creative capacity. After trying this profession, I knew I had to keep my artistic abilities at the forefront of what I do and make moves to transition it from a hobby to a profession. I started my own business, Akron Henna Art, with inspiration from the city where I completed my education and launched a career. Although challenging to build a business from scratch, being able to perform my art for others motivated me along the way and pushed me to be better for my clients. The very personal interaction of creating body art allows me to appreciate my clients on such a deeper level which has been rewarding as I get to see their smiles that much closer. Today, while I continue henna body art, I enjoy creating art in other mediums from canvas art to laser cutting creations. Everyday I’m trying to improve myself and enjoy trying new art forms.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My journey as an artist has been challenging. Finding ways to express myself and dealing with failures was difficult. The biggest issue initially was lack of confidence in my own artistic ability. It took time to hone my skills and I had to be patient as I developed both artform and business at the same time. Rejections were and are still hard because I fear it happening as I attempt to come out of my comfort zone with new projects. When I put myself out there through my art, I do wonder if it is getting attention or recognition. Because the art is my business, I wonder if the amount of effort I put in is ever enough. But with all of the self-doubt and mistakes, I felt as long as I could keep learning from them and bettering things it would be worth it. So far, after many years of building skill and business connections, it has been.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My specialty medium of choice is henna, a plant-based dye used in India and appreciated around the world for its ability to temporarily stain the skin to make beautiful body art. I enjoy creating henna body art at Ohio festivals, along with face paint art, at home parties for all ages to enjoy. I help to share the healing properties of henna through my non-profit Henna Crown Art which gives another layer of beauty to courageous people who are fighting cancer. I also lead art classes online and in person on behalf of Access the Arts, a non-profit, with the Medina Juvenile Center to share a new artistic expression with kids so they can learn to how to create works of art under her guidance.
Some recent creations that I am proud of include a one-of-a-kind, hand painted and decorated door which was displayed along side several others at the First Congregational Church in Akron, to recognize and support LGBTQ+ and diversity in the community. The piece was inspired by my mandala-style art which is a favorite and is expressed in many mediums from customized art works to brides-to-be in traditional Indian weddings. In 2021, 2022 and 2023, my mandala art was showcased among other artists for the city of Stow as a beautification project. Each of the artist’s unique work was digitized and then turned into a vinyl wrap to be displayed on signal boxes at intersections. My goal was to use bright and cheery colors to help bring positivity and joy to those who see it along their travels. My work was highlighted by a visit from city of Stow Mayor John Pribonic and follow up articles in the Stow Sentry, Akron Beacon Journal and the Good Morning Cleveland news program. I was pleased to have my work make the cover page of the United Way of Summit and Medina county’s leadership booklet. Most recently, I was very proud to have the city of Akron choose my art to beautify a signal box. In addition, I completed by first outdoor mural along with a group of local artists.
The thing that sets me apart from others is my unique style of art. No matter what type of art that I create, the person viewing will see a similar underlying commonality that is the foundation of my creation. Henna style art is what I love and I believe it will always be found to some degree in my art whether in small or large scale.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
That I have six degrees, three of which are masters, ranging from education to botany but surprisingly, non of the degrees are art related.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/akronhennaart
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/akronhennaart
