Nazima Kalita

Nazima Rangwala Kalita is a PGR Researcher at Northumbria University in Newcastle, UK, where she specializes in interdisciplinary practice-based research within the field of visual art studies. Her work is deeply influenced by her personal experiences as a survivor of the Gujarat riots, a tragic event that claimed nearly 2,000 lives. This backdrop shapes her exploration of artistic responses to urban violence, allowing her to investigate the profound connections between art and social trauma.

Nazima's research has garnered significant recognition, including the prestigious Venice Biennale Fellowship 2024, where she undertook a project aligned with the theme of "Foreigner Everywhere." This opportunity allowed her to engage with global dialogues on displacement and identity through the lens of contemporary art.

In addition to her research, Nazima has recently received funding from the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) to facilitate a workshop as part of the Festival of Social Science, organized collaboratively by Northumbria University and Newcastle University. This initiative underscores her commitment to fostering community engagement and dialogue through art.

She has served as a Leadership Representative at Northumbria University, where she played a pivotal role in advocating for student interests and enhancing the academic environment. Her innovative spirit is further exemplified by her recent award of GVA IDRT Seed-corn funding for a new project, highlighting her ongoing contributions to the field of visual art.

Nazima's scholarly work includes a notable publication in 2019 titled “The Art of Re-interpreting Self: Self Imagery in the Works of Indian Artist,” featured in the International Journal of Visual and Performing Arts. This paper reflects her dedication to understanding the dynamics of self-representation in contemporary Indian art.

Through her multifaceted research and advocacy, Nazima Rangwala Kalita continues to make significant strides in the intersection of art, society, and resilience.