When Shweta Runwal's daughter Dhriti was born with Down Syndrome, she found herself navigating a world filled with questions, assumptions and uncertainty. What she did not expect was that her daughter's love for art would one day inspire a social enterprise that is changing how people view disability, creativity and inclusion.
An architect by profession, Shweta watched Dhriti express herself through colours, shapes and doodles long before she could articulate her thoughts in words. What began as a personal creative outlet soon revealed something much bigger. Dhriti's artwork resonated with people. It sparked conversations, evoked emotions and challenged preconceived notions about what individuals with intellectual disabilities are capable of achieving.
This realisation led to the birth of Tickle Your Art, a Pune-based social enterprise that transforms artwork created by individuals with Down Syndrome and other intellectual disabilities into beautifully designed lifestyle products. From stationery and home décor to jewellery, accessories and corporate gifts, every product carries a story of creativity, talent and inclusion.
The brand's name itself comes from Dhriti's nickname, ‘Tickle’. What started with one little girl and her sketchbook has now grown into a platform that works with multiple neurodivergent artists from across India. Their artwork is thoughtfully integrated into contemporary products that appeal to modern consumers while celebrating the individuality of each creator.
But Tickle Your Art is about far more than merchandise. The enterprise actively involves its artists in various aspects of the business, helping them build confidence, skills and meaningful employment opportunities. By doing so, it challenges the long-held stereotype that people with intellectual disabilities can only contribute in limited ways.
Shweta's vision is rooted in dignity and visibility. Through awareness campaigns, collaborations and community engagement, the brand has connected with hundreds of families of children with Down Syndrome, creating a growing ecosystem of support and advocacy.
At a time when conversations around inclusion are becoming more important than ever, Tickle Your Art offers a refreshing reminder that talent does not fit into conventional labels. Sometimes, all it takes is someone willing to recognise potential where others see limitations.
For Shweta Runwal, that someone was her daughter.