Anusha Singh, showcases one of her favourite hand-painted saris.
Image: Supplied
Artist Anusha Singh has carved a niche by turning her passion for creativity into wearable art through her customised hand-painted saris.
Singh, 56 of Hillary, said her journey into customised hand-painted saris was not just a career, but a personal renaissance that blossomed from a desire to create and express herself.
“My journey into this business began with a deep-rooted passion for art that started during my school years. Not being able to pursue art as a formal subject led me down a more conventional career path - one that, over time, felt unfulfilling and creatively limiting.”
Singh, the founder of Studio Anusha, said a few years ago that she connected with her passion for art through acrylic and textured canvas work.
“I discovered not only a love for creating, but also a creative spirit that had long been waiting to surface. As my confidence grew, so did my curiosity. I began to push my boundaries, moving beyond canvas and textured art to exploring fabric as a new medium for my expression.
“I started experimenting with shawls and then saris, simply allowing creativity to guide me. To my surprise, each piece came to life beautifully, exceeding my own expectations. Equally important was ensuring durability. I tested each design through multiple washes to ensure the artwork retained its integrity and vibrancy.
“It was in that moment, when artistry and craftsmanship met my purpose, that I realised I had created something truly special. What began as personal discovery evolved into Studio Anusha in 2024, a space where spirit, energy, passion, resilience and creativity are transformed into unique customised hand-painted saris,” she said.
Singh said her work included a list of hand-painted saris inspired by nature and symbolism.
“Symbolism such as sunflowers that radiate joy, roses that embody romance, birds in the garden, blossoms and peacock designs that reflect grace and beauty. Each sari is unique. I have created a growing portfolio of designs, each crafted with intention and artistry.”
She said each sari was a labour of love.
"Completing a sari can take a few days or a week, depending on the intricacy of the design. As exclusive, handcrafted pieces, they are positioned within a fairly priced range that is reflective of the craftsmanship, individuality, and time invested in every creation.”
She said her custom-designed peacock sari held a special place in her heart.
“It embodies elegance and movement. Rich tones of deep blues, emerald greens, and hints of gold were layered to bring the peacock to life, with each brushstroke carefully placed to capture its grace. The detailing in the feathers was intricate, creating a sense of depth and rhythm across the fabric. It felt less like painting and more like storytelling - translating the majesty of the peacock into something wearable and timeless.”
Singh said the most enjoyable part of her work was the transformation.
“Taking a blank canvas and turning it into something visually striking is deeply fulfilling. Every sari carries a story, and I find joy in knowing that each piece becomes part of someone’s personal expression.”
The response, she said, has been “incredibly rewarding”.
“There is a genuine appreciation for authenticity, craftsmanship, and individuality. Clients are drawn to the exclusivity of owning something that is entirely one-of-a-kind.”
Her vision is to position her business as a luxury brand synonymous with wearable art.
“I aim to expand into a broader range of hand-painted garments, collaborate with like-minded artists and showcase my work on larger, more prestigious platforms first locally and then internationally.”
Singh will showcase her work at the 2nd Annual Saree’s & Sweetmeats Festival at the Umhlanga Apart-Hotel on April 26.
“This vibrant cultural event celebrates the beauty, heritage, and storytelling of the sari, bringing together artists, designers and the community in a shared appreciation of tradition and art.
"I will present my collection of exclusive, hand-painted saris, offering guests an intimate look into the craftsmanship and inspiration behind each piece. It is a meaningful platform for me, not only to exhibit my work, but to connect with individuals who value individuality, culture, and wearable art.
“Being part of this event is both an honour and an exciting step forward for Studio Anusha, as I continue to share my vision of transforming saris into timeless, unique expressions,” she said.