Aarushi Mittal is a sustainable textile designer from India and founder of Parali by Aarushi (PBA), a design-driven initiative tackling air pollution caused by stubble burning through eco-friendly innovation. With a degree from the University of the Arts London, Aarushi merges functionality with purpose led storytelling, drawing inspiration from natural ecosystems. Her work centers on upcycling agricultural residues, especially rice straw, to create handcrafted textiles that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), promoting environmental responsibility and sustainable livelihoods. Aarushi’s pioneering approach has garnered international acclaim, including awards at Dubai Design Week and exhibitions at Milan Design Week.
About the artwork
Beneath the Smog
3D – Wall art (Textiles) 2023
Beneath the Smog” is a textile wall artwork made from upcycled rice straw, drawing attention to the harsh reality of stubble burning across India's farmlands. Transitioning from beige to red to black, it reflects dry harvest fields set ablaze, leaving behind carbon-rich ash and deep environmental damage. This piece sparks conversation around smog its causes, the farmers’ challenges, and the urgent need to rethink how we treat agricultural waste.