< Back to all entries & Profiles
User Saniya profile image

Saniya Gavankar

BITS Design School

I build ideas through discipline, experimentation, and hands-on execution. Driven by an insatiable curiosity I actively explore and leverage diverse forms of expression to challenge how things are usually done. My practice tries to uncover what "good design" means even if that thought is intentionally bohemian. I operate on the belief that creativity knows no boundaries. My work bridges the gap between raw execution and visionary thought, delivering distinct and artistic design solutions. What I conceptualize and execute is my signature that is universally unique.

Lightbox zoom button
Lightbox zoom button
Lightbox zoom button
Lightbox zoom button
Lightbox zoom button
Lightbox zoom button
Lightbox zoom button
Lightbox zoom button
Lightbox zoom button
← →
x

Love Memento

Category: Interior

Competitions: Home Competition 2026

Love Memento My father gifted my mother a flower bouquet on Valentine's Day. The bamboo frame of the bouquet had been sitting in our home long after the flowers wilted. That quiet presence to me was an epitomisation of how memories linger through materials. Love Memento stands testimonial of timeless moments. The vessel is handcrafted using शाडू माती (natural river clay) and eco-friendly air-dry clay. Hand-crushed गेरू (red ochre) and coffee stain create an earth like finish that celebrates the raw texture of the material. The interior is lined with composition gold leaf (copper–zinc alloy), creating a warm reflective surface that contrasts with the textured clay. The flowers in the vessel are eggshells. They remind me of the tête-à-tête breakfast routine with my parents. Here, the otherwise oblivious material is evolved into a lasting symbol of connection. Bamboo stems holding the eggshells are relics of the original bouquet. The work is designed to appeal to multiple senses. Its textured surface invites touch. A final application of मृदगंध अत्तर (Earthen or Petrichor fragrance) enriches the surface while introducing the familiar scent exuded by dry soil immediately after first rain. This reinforces eternal sensory connection to the earth. Designed as a vessel for fresh foliage, dried botanicals or everyday items, Love Memento becomes part of daily life. It is an attempt to translate an emotion into artefact. It exemplifies how intimate gestures become lasting memories, and how natural materials can preserve immortal stories of life moments.

In association with Arts Thread

Working with our partners at Arts Thread to develop lifelong learning and career opportunities for students of fashion and design. Our partnership provides the opportunity to compete on a world stage, participate in industry led workshops, set up an outstanding portfolio and gain access to the resources that will kickstart careers in fashion and design.