Picture This! – Painting the Women′s Movement

This book showcases over two hundred drawings by Dalit artist Radhaben Garwa, depicting the struggles and triumphs of rural women in India, highlighting their fight for rights and resistance against corporate encroachment.

Picture This! – Painting the Women’s Movement showcases the powerful artwork of Dalit artist Radhaben Garwa, who captures the essence of the rural women's movement in Western India. Through her extensive collection of over two hundred drawings, Garwa highlights the struggles and triumphs of women in her village and the broader Kutch Mahila Vikas Sangathan, an NGO dedicated to advocating for women's rights and economic empowerment. Her illustrations vividly depict significant events such as feminist gatherings that address violence and discrimination, as well as the impact of corporate encroachment on farmlands.

Garwa's artwork serves as a poignant reflection of the challenges faced by women in India, particularly those from marginalized communities. Each image tells a story, offering insight into the lives of these women as they navigate the complexities of globalization and societal expectations. The illustrations not only document the past but also inspire future generations to continue the fight for equality and justice.

The book includes an insightful afterword by renowned feminist journalist Kalpana Sharma, which contextualizes Garwa's work within the larger framework of the Indian women's movement. Picture This! is more than just an art collection; it is a testament to the resilience, creativity, and determination of women striving for change. Through Garwa's lens, readers gain a deeper understanding of the intersection of art and activism, making this compendium a valuable resource for those interested in social justice and gender equality.