Fine artist | United Kingdom
Taniya Dharani
Born in 1996
About the creator
- Taniya Dharani is a British-based fine artist working in classical realist oil painting. Her practice combines traditional techniques with contemporary storytelling, creating carefully composed works that explore symbolism, cultural exchange, and human connection.
Biography
Taniya Dharani was born on 1 June 1996 and is originally from India, now based in the United Kingdom. She is a classically trained realist painter specialising in still life and portraiture. Alongside her studio practice, she is the founder of Artany Art Gallery & Advisory and the platform Ismaili Artists Worldwide, both supporting artists internationally. Dharani is also active in teaching and mentorship, working with both adults and children, and contributing to the wider art community through workshops and educational initiatives.
Education
Dharani completed a BA in Fine Art from the University of Reading in 2018, followed by an MA in Art Business at Sotheby’s Institute of Art in London and New York. She further developed her technical skills through a four-year classical realism training programme at the Barnes Atelier.
Exhibitions
Her work has been exhibited across London, including group exhibitions and art fairs such as the Holy Art Fair. Recent projects include public installations during London Art Week 2025 at Leicester Square, Oxford Circus, and Liverpool Street, as well as a private view exhibition at Espacio Gallery in 2025.
Awards
Dharani was longlisted by the Visual Arts Association and has been featured as an artist by The Ismaili. Her works are held in private collections, including acquisitions by members of prominent international families.
Artistic Style
Dharani’s work is rooted in classical oil painting techniques, including detailed preparatory drawing, grisaille underpainting, and layered glazing. Her compositions are structured and controlled, with a strong focus on light and form. She creates narrative still lifes and portraits that incorporate symbolic objects such as textiles, vessels, animals, and organic materials. Recurring themes include the Silk Road, cultural identity, and the passage of time, often reflecting on life and death. Her muted, earthy palette and refined tonal control give her work a quiet, timeless quality.
Additional Information
In addition to her artistic practice, Dharani has professional experience working with galleries and art advisory platforms, including Cynthia Corbett Gallery, Me Art Gallery, and Blue Rhino Art Advisory, as well as exposure to art consultancy through Art on Superyachts. She is also a published author of Artany – The Global Ismaili Artists. Her growing presence in the contemporary art scene reflects a balance between traditional craftsmanship and engagement with the global art market.
Masterpieces by Taniya Dharani
