Manasi: The Mumbai Artist Turning Emotions into Art Through Artsy Cactuss
In a world where art often chases trends, Manasi Jitendra Chandi, the artist behind Artsy Cactuss, paints from the heart. Based in Mumbai, she’s built a small yet soulful space in the Indian art world, one that blends creativity, color, and emotion with every piece she makes. Her work reflects not just her imagination but her journey, her memories, and her connection to the world around her.
For Manasi, art was never a passing phase. “I’ve loved painting since childhood. My favorite time in school was always the drawing period,” she recalls. Those early years, spent sketching and painting for competitions, planted the seeds of a lifelong passion. But it was during the lockdown that she found her way back to the canvas in a deeper sense.
With time suddenly on her side, Manasi picked up her brushes again, creating a custom couple portrait that unexpectedly changed her life. The piece received immense love and appreciation, and that encouragement became the spark behind Artsy Cactuss, a homegrown art venture that has since reached hundreds of people across cities she’s never even been to.
Since then, she’s painted more than 500 portraits, each carrying its own story, emotion, and energy. What sets her apart is the personal touch she infuses into every creation. Whether it’s a portrait, a painting, or a piece of handmade jewelry, Manasi sees art as an exchange of emotions, a way to make someone feel seen, connected, or simply happy. “Each piece carries a part of my heart and emotions, made with care and meaning,” she says.
Her architectural background adds another layer to her creativity. With a keen eye for design, composition, and balance, she often finds her professional world blending with her artistic one. “I’ve always wanted to be in a creative field and dreamed of becoming an architect. Design and art have always inspired me deeply,” she shares. Balancing both roles isn’t easy, but for her, it’s deeply fulfilling. “Now I’m working on projects I truly love while also managing my small business, something that brings me both purpose and happiness.”
Among her many creations, a few hold particularly deep meaning. Her painting of the Saraswati Idol stands out, not just for its beauty but for its sentiment. Painting the idol in her own school, years after being a student there, felt like a homecoming. “It was a full-circle moment, a reminder of how art connects us to our roots and memories.”
Another cherished work, Dwarkadish, tested her patience and skill, with countless hours poured into every detail. The emotional connection was mutual, her clients were so moved by the final piece that they paid her more than she’d quoted. “Moments like these remind me why I create, because art made with love always finds its way to the right hearts.”
And then there’s Forever My Muse, a heartfelt portrait of her mother from 1992, one that beautifully captures her grace and timelessness. “It will always hold a special place in my heart,” Manasi says with pride.
Through Artsy Cactuss, Manasi has built more than a business. She’s built a bridge between art and emotion, between craft and connection. Her journey stands as a reminder that when you follow what moves you, the world moves with you.
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