Some journeys are defined by privilege. Others are defined by perseverance. Erum Khan’s story belongs to the second kind.

A Delhi-based artist, art curator, cultural organiser and social activist, Khan built her career without an established artistic lineage, inherited influence or a traditional godfather. Her professional journey took her through Banking & Finance, Corporate organisations, Media, Journalism, Mass Communication, Hospitality and Administration—experiences that shaped her communication, leadership, organisational and people-management skills.

Yet through every professional chapter, art remained the constant thread.What began as a childhood passion gradually became a profession and eventually a purpose: creating opportunities for other artists. Through her curatorial work and the platform she built through Aura Planet, Khan has worked with thousands of artists, creating opportunities through exhibitions, promotion, workshops, awards, certificates and recognition. Her objective was never simply to put paintings on walls, but to create visibility, confidence and access for artists who deserved a platform.

Over approximately eight years, she has organised and curated more than 400 group exhibitions in Delhi, personally overseeing the many details behind each presentation. Her exhibitions have brought together artists from different states, cities and communities, creating spaces where emerging talent could meet audiences, collectors and distinguished personalities.

But the real measure of her work is not the number of exhibitions. It is what happened to the artists afterwards. For many, her platforms became an important step towards greater visibility and professional recognition.

Khan’s journey becomes even more significant because she built it while navigating personal and professional challenges. She continued when circumstances could have made it easier to stop. Over time, that persistence became credibility—and credibility became influence. One of the most memorable chapters of her curatorial journey was her long association with the late Ram Vanji Sutar, one of India’s most celebrated sculptors, a Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan awardee, and the designer of the 182-metre Statue of Unity. Sutar passed away in December 2025 at the age of 100, bringing to a close an extraordinary artistic life spanning a century. (New India Samachar)

According to Khan’s recollections, Sutar attended numerous exhibitions organised by her in Delhi. He would personally observe artworks, interact with artists and encourage emerging talent. His affection and blessings towards Khan became deeply meaningful to her, particularly because they came from a master whose own contribution had become part of India’s artistic heritage.

For Khan, his presence was more than the appearance of a distinguished guest. He represented encouragement from a legendary artist who had himself spent a lifetime elevating Indian sculpture onto the world stage.

After Sutar’s passing, Khan was invited to a photography exhibition at AIFACS, Rafi Marg, New Delhi. According to her account, approximately 80–90 per cent of the photographs displayed were captured during exhibitions organised by her, documenting Sutar’s presence among the artists and guests.

For the audience, they were photographs.