Padma Rao

Padma Rao is a writer, artist, and cultural organiser based in the North East of England. Her interdisciplinary practice explores themes of identity, violence against women and girls, and the lived experiences of Black and Asian women in the UK. Working primarily through drawing, writing, and socially engaged practice, Padma uses art as a tool for both expression and empowerment.

Born in India and raised in a creative household, Padma moved to the UK in the early 1980s. Her early experiences as a first-generation migrant shaped a lifelong commitment to building inclusive creative spaces. She began volunteering with dance and writing groups across the North of England, laying the foundation for a community-based practice that merges activism with the arts.

In 1999, Padma was awarded a national Arts Council England (ACE) fellowship for Black and Asian professionals—becoming the only recipient in the North East. This led to senior roles in arts management and diversity policy, including the development of ACE’s Decibel programme. At age 50, Padma transitioned back to her own creative practice, focusing on drawing and participatory work that centres marginalised women’s voices.

Padma is a co-founder and core member of Sangini, a women-led charity and creative organisation that provides culturally safe spaces for Black and Asian women through workshops, exhibitions, and support services. Her work at Sangini bridges art and advocacy, addressing structural inequalities while nurturing individual creativity and healing.

In all areas of her work, Padma remains committed to amplifying underrepresented voices and widening access to the arts.