India is a destination I have been thinking about for a long time. I find it fascinating : its folklore, traditions, symbols, spirituality and legends resonate in my mind. I was dreaming of this trip. It was essential, at this time in my life, to bring substance to my artwork and to inspire new images in collaboration with karigars textile artisans.

July Ancel, a graduate of the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris, has cultivated a distinct identity as a painter through her travels in China, Mexico, Thailand, and Turkey. Her "nomadic painting," infused with myths, symbols, and gestural intuitions, reflects her exploration of ritualistic compositions. Recognised with awards like the Antoine Marin Prize, Yishu Prize, and a scholarship from Casa Velazquez, her work is part of major private collections in China, France, and South America. During her residency at Villa Swagatam in India, Ancel immersed herself in local culture and craftsmanship, collaborating with 21 skilled artisans from the Kalhath Institute. Together, they created 23 unique works that combined her oil painting techniques with traditional Indian embroidery and weaving. This collaboration led to her solo exhibition Exotic Weavings: July Ancel’s Journey Through India, held at Gin Huang Gallery in Taipei from June 6 to July 18, 2024, showcasing a rich fusion of French and Indian artistry.