Noelle Kadar talks about her love for all things art and her love for Jaipur

Creative pursuits brought her from New Jersey to Varanasi, and finally love bound her to Jaipur. Meet accomplished strategic art and design consultant Noelle Kadar who possesses a profound understanding of the intersection between art and culture. With a keen eye for talent and trends, she navigates the art world, connecting artists with patrons in a harmonious dance of creativity and commerce.

“When you go to an art school where you learn how to make things, you realise that no one knows how to make anything anymore,” says Noelle, an alumnus of Rhode School of Design. “[That way] India always fascinated me for its art and craft legacy. Things were still being made at an advanced level. I wanted to go to Varanasi to learn weaving from the skilled master craftsmen.”

Reminiscing about her first visit to the country, Noelle says she remembers every detail from her trip to Varanasi in 2006 and equates it to a month-long meditation. “I felt like a monk. I stayed at a hotel for over a month and my routine was set. I had this one rickshaw guy who took me to the weaving locality. It was a wonderful experience,” she recalls.

Asked what role did India play in her evolution as an artist, Noelle says, “I started living in India when I was 20. And since then, I have spent more time here than I have in the US. I think in that decade—from 20 to 30— you become yourself. A lot of that happened to me here. I’m aware that I’m not Indian, but this is my country (if that makes sense).”After the Varanasi trip, India sort of became her second home. Soon, Rajasthan became her base, and finally in 2016 she got married to Akshat Ghiya, the founder and creative director of Tallin Jewels, in Udaipur.

The palpable excitement in Noelle’s voice when she talks about Jaipur is hard to miss. “Jaipur was designed to be a city for craft,” Noelle tells Bazaar India as she delves into the history of the city. “I think Jaipur is an aesthetically oriented city.” She adds, when it comes to contemporary art, Jaipur is still figuring things out. “[Soon] you will be seeing a lot more artists opening studios here, and hopefully some good galleries. I think in the next five to six years, you will see a lot more contemporary art being exhibited here.”

Noelle’s work has garnered attention for its ability to bridge the gap between traditional and modern art. Her focus has always been to facilitate the introduction of Indian contemporary art and craft to the world while bringing international standards to India. “What I realised is I am a good organiser and promoter. My position in all of this is to help the world see and experience India the way I have,” says Noelle.

She was the VIP relations director and international director for five editions of the India Art Fair from 2014 to 2018. Later, Noelle held the position of the artistic director of The Sculpture Park at Madhavendra Palace, Jaipur, from 2018 to 2020. At present, she consults for Art Dubai, and other arts and design institutions. She says she was fascinated to see many young people walking the aisles at the Mumbai Art Fair. “From the conversations I have had with gallerists, it seems like there is a growing interest amongst new and young collectors.” Asked if the young generation perceives art as unaffordable, Noelle quips, “I think it all has to do with perceived value. For me, I was buying art before I was buying Chanel handbags. I think this new generation is incredibly willing to spend money, perhaps even too much money, on things they think are valuable.”

Apart from being an art and design consultant, Noelle is also a doting mother to her four-year-old twins. When it comes to role models, Noelle has some unique choices. “I think my kids are starting to being role models for me. The wisdom in their innocence has really changed my outlook towards life.” From an art point of view, Bharti Kher and Subodh Gupta are her role models. “I really look up to them as a powerful creative couple who are also excellent parents.”

Noelle’s definition of fashion is also equally quirky. “We see before we hear. How you present yourself in the world can very quickly change someone’s perception of you.” She says sari is her ‘safety uniform’ and a way to express herself. “Fashion can also be a way to show respect without saying anything.”

Noelle’s ability to curate collections reflects a nuanced understanding of tastes and aspirations. In her hands, art becomes not just a visual experience but a tailored journey, forging connections that transcend canvas and frame. As she continues to push boundaries, Noelle is leaving an indelible mark on the art world.

This article originally appeared in Harper's Bazaar India January- February 2024 print issue

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