Diversity, Inclusion, Faith & Cultural Intelligence
Helping organizations, brands, and institutions create, communicate, and engage with greater understanding of the faiths, cultures and communities they represent.
Sangeetha Kowsik is the founder of Ihsan Ishan Design and a leading voice in culturally and faith sensitive design, education, and advocacy. Grounded in lived experience and creative leadership, her work unites art, culture, design and spirituality.
She made history as the first woman of color to lead a design team at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, where she also founded the museum’s first internship and mentorship programs for international students and people of color.
A formally trained Arabic/Islamic calligrapher and Hindu Chaplain, Sangeetha brings rare insight into the spiritual and cultural significance of global traditions. She advises institutions and brands on creating culturally and faith sensitive informed designs, exhibitions, programming, and initiatives that honor diverse faiths and cultures without appropriation.
Her career spans museums, fashion, beauty, luxury, and street culture, with work for Estée Lauder, Tiffany & Co., Ralph Lauren, Vans, and more. Through lectures and immersive experiences, she uses design and storytelling to create understanding, inclusion, and cultural intelligence.
THE MET EXPERT TALK SERIES
HOUSEHOLD GODS :
HINDU DEVOTIONAL PRINTS
HOW ART & DESIGN CAN BE USED TO EDUCATE, HEAL,AND UNITE DIVERSE COMMUNITIES, FAITHS, AND CULTURES
LECTURE - EASTERN FAITHS AND CONNECTION TO DESIGN
LECTURE - THE IMPORTANCE OF ARABIC TYPEFACES & CALLIGRAPHY
“Hearing Sangeetha Kowsik speak about working at the intersection of design, culture, and faith education was truly eye-opening. I was deeply impressed by her extensive knowledge and her inclusive, open approach to multiple faiths. It is inspiring to see how thoughtful design can bridge cultural gaps and foster meaningful interfaith education.”
BUILD CULTURAL UNDERSTANDING THROUGH DESIGN
Looking for a lecture, workshop, cultural advisor, or conversation exploring faith, identity, representation and design? Let’s create a program tailored to
your organization and audience.