Sharmila has a Bachelor of Arts (Double Major History & English) UCLA & UWA and a Master of Art History & Curatorship from University of Sydney. She applies a multidisciplinary approach to curating that weaves together writing, research, design and communications. Her latest project, Actions for the Earth: Art, Care and Ecology is an exhibition being produced by Independent Curator’s International. The exhibition is currently presented at The Block Museum, Chicago. The project exemplifies Sharmila’s interest in creating participatory exhibitions and fostering dialogue around ecological, political and social issues.

She is Director at Tarruru, a purpose-driven multidisciplinary creative studio and consultancy. In this role Sharmila has delivered public art projects, developed programming, led concept ideation and created the blueprint for an iconic new cultural centre that rethinks the role of cultural institutions in civic, cultural and economic life.

Sharmila’s curatorial practice reflects her interest in artistic and design movements that engage with contemporary issues. As an Australian of mixed ancestry she is interested in hybridity and globalising encounters that engage with heritage, spirituality, tradition and diverse knowledge systems.

Sharmila has provided creative direction on major publishing and design initiatives, and managed commissions across the arts. Her writing has been published in numerous books and journals. She has also delivered a number of editorial projects.

CURATORIAL ADVISORY 

Sharmila offers a curatorial advisory service based on her accumulated knowledge of artists and creative practitioners. She specialises in art from South East Asia, India, and contemporary Australia with a focus on Aboriginal art. She applies her ability in forecasting to identify value and opportunity in emerging artists. She works with a selection of clients and corporates (private and public) who desire the development of meaningful legacy collections, and or, have a focus on supporting emerging talent.