Meet Tanya Momi | Visual Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Tanya Momi and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tanya, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
For me, achieving work-life balance was not just about managing time—it was a constant negotiation between survival, responsibility, and maintaining a sense of normalcy for my children. Landing in the Bay Area at 22, I found myself at the heart of Silicon Valley’s rapid growth. By 1989, I started my own small beauty salon, which expanded into a full-service salon in 1994. Running a business while navigating life as a single mother with no financial or emotional support from my community was incredibly challenging, but I persevered.
The isolation I faced from my own Indian community was particularly painful. As a single mother, I was ostracized—people avoided me, and my children were discouraged from associating with us. Rather than letting this rejection define me, I chose to fight back with resilience. Therapy became a vital part of our family routine, helping us process trauma and rebuild our lives. I didn’t have the privilege of being an Indian housewife. As Mark Twain once said, “I kill my own snake and light my own cigar.” Inspired by this sentiment, I created a painting titled Independent Day and Vision of the Future, which reflects my journey. I am living that vision—a life of self-reliance and independence. Unlike others who may have had the luxury to stay home with their children, I had to build a future while balancing work and family. My path wasn’t conventional, but it was driven by resilience and a determination to create a life of empowerment
Amidst these struggles, I was intentional about creating a balanced family life. Sundays were dedicated to family, with picnics, outdoor activities, and time spent together free from distractions like TV or phones. I worked tirelessly Tuesday through Saturday, reserving Mondays for grocery shopping, cooking, and doctor’s appointments. I instilled family values in my children, encouraging them to help with chores, value meaningful connections, and contribute to their community through volunteer work.
Even while juggling multiple roles, I continued to pursue growth. I took night classes to improve my business skills and ensure my salon thrived. My work-life balance was rooted in prioritizing family over societal comparisons, living authentically, and teaching my children that happiness lies in shared experiences, love, and service—not material wealth.
My journey is a testament to resilience and determination, proving that even in the most challenging circumstances, balance and fulfillment are achievable through intention, hard work, and love.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is a deeply personal reflection of resilience, compassion, and the human spirit. What sets me apart as an artist is my focus on creating work that transcends conventional narratives, particularly in my Partition-themed art. My paintings capture the raw emotions of displacement, trauma, and healing while emphasizing hope, unity, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. I aim to connect people through shared stories and emotions, focusing on the bonds of humanity rather than the divides of history.
One of my proudest accomplishments is being the only artist to create a comprehensive body of work on the 1947 Partition. My art captures the untold stories of those who endured unimaginable suffering yet continued to embody resilience and compassion. Through my use of symbolic elements like gauze, hands, and doves, I invite viewers to reflect on the potential for healing and understanding.
The journey to where I am today was far from easy. As a single mother and business owner, I faced isolation, financial hardship, and rejection from my own community. Balancing my family, business, and creative aspirations required immense resilience and determination. However, my challenges became my greatest teachers. They shaped my perspective, deepened my empathy, and fueled my drive to create art that heals and inspires.
Through this journey, I’ve learned that perseverance, authenticity, and staying true to your passion are vital. I want the world to know that my art is not just about aesthetics—it’s about storytelling, connection, and advocacy for compassion and unity. My story is a testament to the transformative power of art and the human spirit’s ability to rise above adversity.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Day 1: Hiking and Nature Immersion
* Morning: Start the trip with a scenic hike at Rancho San Antonio Preserve. Breathe in the fresh air, enjoy the serene trails, and catch glimpses of wildlife.
* Afternoon: Picnic by the park with homemade snacks, fresh fruits, and herbal tea from my garden.
* Evening: Wind down with a simple, healthy dinner cooked together at home using ingredients from my garden.
Day 2: Creativity and Reflection
* Morning: Settle into my studio to explore art together. I’d introduce them to my painting process and guide them in creating their own artwork.
* Afternoon: Share stories over lunch and reflect on the power of art to heal and connect.
* Evening: Take a calming walk in the neighborhood, followed by a short meditation session to relax our minds.
Day 3: Relaxation and Pampering
* Morning: Treat ourselves to a relaxing massage and spa session to rejuvenate.
* Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at True Food Kitchen, savoring their fresh and health-conscious dishes.
* Evening: End the day with a cup of tea and heartfelt conversations under the stars.
Day 4: Giving Back
* Morning: Volunteer at a local shelter or food bank, offering our time and energy to support those in need.
* Afternoon: Make a hearty, comforting meal together to share with the shelter or enjoy at home as a token of gratitude.
* Evening: Relax and reflect on the day’s meaningful moments.
Day 5: Culinary Creativity
* Morning: Harvest fresh produce from my garden and plan a wholesome, collaborative cooking session.
* Afternoon: Prepare a delicious meal together, experimenting with new recipes and enjoying the fruits of our labor.
* Evening: Spend the night watching a favorite movie or listening to music that inspires us.
Day 6: Exploring and Connecting
* Morning: Visit a nearby meditation retreat or garden, such as Filoli Historic House and Garden, to connect with nature and center ourselves.
* Afternoon: Head to a cozy café for a light meal, followed by browsing a local bookstore or art gallery.
* Evening: Take a reflective long walk, appreciating the stillness and meaningful time spent together.
Day 7: Art, Gratitude, and Goodbyes
* Morning: Revisit the studio to finish any art pieces we started. Share thoughts on creativity and its impact on our lives.
* Afternoon: Enjoy a farewell meal cooked together, incorporating vibrant produce and aromatic herbs from the garden.
* Evening: Close the trip with a gratitude meditation and a promise to carry forward the joy and memories of the week.
This itinerary is less about external attractions and more about shared experiences, nurturing the soul, and making meaningful connections. It’s the kind of week that leaves both hearts full and spirits lifted.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My journey has been shaped and supported by many incredible people, experiences, and sources of inspiration, and I am deeply grateful for each of them. My parents are at the heart of my story. Their unwavering love and support gave me the courage to leave an abusive marriage and start afresh, even when the road ahead was uncertain. They stood by me when I needed them the most, showing up with strength and compassion that carried me through my darkest moments.
My children also deserve immense recognition. Their resilience and unconditional love kept me going, and my desire to create a better future for them motivated me to work harder and never give up. They were my driving force, and their faith in me helped me believe in myself.
My clients at the salon played a significant role in shaping my journey. They were more than customers—they were my friends, mentors, and confidants. They encouraged me to pick up my paintbrush again, and their support helped me transform my salon into a gallery and eventually pursue a full-time art career.
Lastly, I want to acknowledge all the women who have shared their stories of struggle and strength with me. They reminded me of the power of community, empathy, and perseverance. My journey has never been a solo one, and I’m forever grateful to everyone who helped me along the way.

Website: https://www.Tanyamomi.com

Instagram: @tanya.momi

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanya-momi/

Twitter: 2tanyamomi

Facebook: Tanya Momi

Youtube: Tanya Momi