Exhibit on display June 12 through August 5
Artist Reception on Sunday, June 22, after worship

ARTIST STATEMENT - Mauli Agrawal

I am a self-taught painter and photographer, and for me, art has always been a deeply personal and restorative outlet. I first began painting many years ago, but like many hobbies, it took a back seat early in my professional life. I returned to it later with a fresh perspective, and now I generally complete a couple of paintings each year. 

Painting is a form of meditation for me – something that brings both focus and calm. I rarely start with a fully-developed idea. Instead, I begin with a general concept and let the painting take shape on its own. That openness to discovery is where I find the most joy. I also like to experiment with different techniques and styles, challenging myself to see things from new points of view.

As a photographer, I’m drawn to quiet scenes or fleeting moments – the ones that are easy to miss in the rush of daily life. There’s something meaningful about pausing long enough to notice and capture them. 

After spending 27 years in Texas, I moved to Kansas City seven years ago. By day, I serve as Chancellor of UMKC, where I have the privilege of supporting a vibrant academic community – including the arts. Painting and photography offer me a more personal, reflective connection to that world. They remind me of the importance of creativity in all aspects of life.