LaGrish's mission is to build, explore and to ignite cultural change through storytelling. It was founded by Grishma Shah, a visual artist, cancer survivor and Entertainment Psychologist who believes in the power of storytelling. That is why LaGrish collaborates with organizations in Hollywood, production companies, film festivals and academic, institutions (like Northwestern University and Harvard University) to advance new methodologies, and promote DEIA through inclusive art practices. When Grishma isn't dismantling harmful outdated narratives, the self-taught painter is burning the midnight oil creating artwork for upcoming LaGrish workshops and art exhibits. Immersed in culture from her South Asian roots, Grishma's painting style goes beyond traditional elements. Through her use of texture and asymmetry, working in multiple mediums, she gently probes her audiences to reflect upon traditional standards of beauty and worth, with reoccurring themes of identity, aiming to hold space for deeper reflection and conversation.
A 2021 3Arts Fellow, Grishma has had her artwork exhibited throughout Chicago including the beautiful Chicago Harold Washington Library, Skokie Public Library, Adler University, Harper College, The Chicago Cultural Center, Navy Pier, Chicago Symphony Theatre, and Wentz Concert Hall/Fine Arts Center (to name a few). “If we can open up a little bit more to each other and share our stories, that’s what breaks down barriers. ”
Image description: A young boy explores a painting of a young girl with curiosity, noticing more commonalities than differences.
IMAGE DESCRIPTION: A LaGrish art print in a 5x7 inch frame at a client's home office. Sunglasses and computer mouse sneak in for a candid photo.
image description: at a gallery showing people explore la grish paintings.
image description: a collection of la Grish art on display, including a peacock print and black & white print of hands decorated with henna designs.
"As an Artist,Storyteller and Leader, I can plant a seed in the mind of others that a woman of color with a disability is a powerful and influential person."Spotlight video of Grishma sponsored by Aurora Health.
image description: a film crew discussing a film scene at a park, some crew are sitting on white benches, while others are standing.