The Sisterhood Archives: A Quirky Homage to Indian Feminist Icons

Reimagining Feminism Through Pop Art-Inspired Postcards

The visual language of The Sisterhood Archives draws inspiration from Pop art and Indian matchbox art from the Post World War I era. The aim is to add a modern touch to traditional visuals with popular feminist phrases that resonate with an urban audience. This project serves as a quirky homage to the feminist icons who have brought about change and celebrates these forgotten warriors.

What sets The Sisterhood Archives apart is its unique approach to remembering Indian feminist pioneers. The postcards serve as a reminder of their contributions and an attempt to make their ideologies more accessible to the modern Indian woman. Each postcard features a different feminist icon and incorporates their powerful messages in a visually captivating manner.

Technically, The Sisterhood Archives is realized through digital printing on 275 gsm paper with a matte finish. The postcards are available in postcard size (148 x 105 mm) or A5 print (210 x 148 mm). The choice of lightly textured paper adds an additional layer of finish to the design.

These postcards are not just pieces of art; they also serve as a source of motivation and inspiration. Users can pin them up on their soft boards or frame them and display them near their workstations or studios. The powerful messages and captivating visuals act as a daily boost, reminding individuals of the feminist pioneers who have paved the way for gender equality.

The Sisterhood Archives project started in September 2018 and lasted for a week. During the design process, Rucha Ghadge conducted extensive research on Indian symbols in feminism throughout the history of India's multicultural challenges. The aim was to honor figures that had a lasting impact on the women's movement in India.

However, the project was not without its challenges. The most significant hurdle was finding a balance between honoring the legacy of these icons and making their work relatable and relevant to the current generation. Rucha Ghadge had to ensure that the efforts of these feminist pioneers were not trivialized but celebrated in a way that resonated with the modern Indian woman.

Despite the challenges faced, The Sisterhood Archives has received recognition for its creativity and ingenuity. In 2019, it was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Graphics, Illustration, and Visual Communication Design category. This prestigious award acknowledges designs that exhibit strong technical and creative skills, contributing to improvements in quality of life.

The Sisterhood Archives is not just a collection of postcards; it is a celebration of the feminist movement in India and a reminder of the powerful women who have fought for gender equality. Through its unique blend of pop art-inspired visuals and feminist messages, this project aims to inspire and empower the modern Indian woman.