From Suburbs to Skylines: A Journey from NC to NYC

By: Nethali Padmaperuma

In the realm of Bhavika's imagination, South Asian heritage intertwines with threads of creativity, painting a captivating tapestry of her interior design influences. As she invites us into her world, we embark on a journey that transcends cultural boundaries and immerses us in a symphony of colors, textures, and stories.

In her quest for authenticity, Bhavika defies the confines of Western aesthetics and embraces the richness of her South Asian roots. She regales us with tales of her flea market treasures, like her nightstand crafted from sturdy jute material, reminiscent of the trusty Trader Joe's bags. Amidst a sea of "that" girl aesthetics and Scandinavian molds, Bhavika resists the erasure of non-Western cultures and embraces objects that speak to her soul—a conscious curation that becomes an extension of her very being.

Her journey takes a remarkable turn when she finds herself transplanted from the safe suburbs of North Carolina to the whirlwind of New York City. Here, she grapples with the complexities of cultural identity, as her parents adapt to a new way of life in North Carolina and she navigates the realm of being a first-generation immigrant. In the chaos of the city, Bhavika discovers a newfound freedom to explore and express her identity, but also learns the importance of finding moments of respite amidst the relentless hustle.

Growing up in a South Asian household, Bhavika's creative spirit was nurtured by her spirited grandmother. She draws inspiration from her grandmother's prowess in crochet, painting, sculpting, and culinary arts—a testament to the power of learning and preserving cultural traditions. However, as she entered high school, Bhavika found herself stifled by the pressure to conform and sacrifice her creative essence. It was not until she crossed paths with her roommate, Suchi, that her creative interests were reignited. She embarked on a journey of self-discovery, creating captivating interview-style videos and working on Wisteria Zine with Suchi. Bhavika finds solace in the act of storytelling, connecting with others, and witnessing the transformative power of creativity.

In her pursuit of a South Asian creative community, Bhavika uncovers intentional connections that resonate with her as a storyteller. She shares anecdotes of meeting an influential stylist she had long admired, whose work graces the stages of Raveena, Kali Uchis, and Cardi B. From cooking events celebrating the flavors of Sri Lanka to pottery classes and brand gatherings, she discovers pockets of creativity in the sprawling landscape of New York City. In these spaces, she finds a sense of belonging among like-minded individuals who celebrate diversity and strive for authentic representation.

However, Bhavika's ambitions extend beyond personal exploration. She yearns to shed light on the sustainable systems deeply rooted in South Asian cultures. She marvels at centuries-old traditions of textile craftsmanship, where small-batch creations and ancestral techniques intertwine. While Western ideologies often tout the need for new systems, Bhavika advocates for embracing the wisdom of her heritage and integrating South Asian textiles, systems, and ways of life into the global conversation on sustainability. With intention and an appreciation for beauty, she aims to challenge the binary mindset surrounding sustainability, acknowledging the financial implications that play a role in the choices we make.

Amidst this tapestry of cultural exploration and creative pursuits, Bhavika's personal style emerges as an expression of her identity. Surrounded by the eclectic allure of her neighborhood, she immerses herself in vintage treasures and thrifted finds. Unfettered by societal norms or fleeting trends, Bhavika curates ensembles that are uniquely hers. She joyfully pairs her indigenous cotton sarong with unexpected basics, celebrates mismatched prints, and revels in the symphony of colors that speaks volumes about her spirit. Her personal style transcends brands and social media influencers, rooted in a genuine love for fashion and avoids the confines of predetermined molds.

Bhavika's journey is a testament to the transformative power of embracing one's cultural heritage and infusing it with creativity. Through her narratives and design choices, she invites us to break free from the shackles of conformity and embrace the kaleidoscope of colors and stories that make us who we are. Her voice, vibrant and powerful, serves as a beacon of inspiration for those seeking to unearth their own unique tapestry and revel in the limitless possibilities of self-expression.