His vision extends beyond personal success; he aims to create boundary-pushing artworks and contribute to social change through community art projects and teaching engagements.

Sujay Saple is an interdisciplinary artist, designer, and teacher earning his MFA at the Penny W. Stamps School of Art and Design. After a 15-year hiatus from formal education following his undergraduate studies in India, Sujay returned for a graduate degree, driven by a relentless passion for the arts. He joined the MFA program with a 75% scholarship, demonstrating his commitment to personal and professional growth despite significant financial challenges.

Sujay’s artistic career began at 16, and over the years, he has made noteworthy impacts on India’s art scene and cultural landscape. He founded Shapeshift, an experimental arts group, which has thrived for over a decade without substantial financial or institutional support. His works, such as “Agent Provocateur” (2017) and “Sculpting Intimacy” (2018), have addressed critical social and political issues including Hindu nationalism and LGBTQ+ rights, earning him recognition for pushing artistic boundaries. Sujay’s advisor praises his unique vision and notes, “Sujay is an exemplary, hardworking and open-minded candidate.”

In 2023, Sujay faced a profound personal challenge when his mother was diagnosed with stage IV stomach cancer. This necessitated an unexpected interruption in his studies, as he became her primary caregiver, managing her medical care and household responsibilities. Despite these immense pressures, Sujay has shown remarkable resilience, working through burnout, compassion fatigue, and financial difficulties. 

Returning to Ann Arbor to complete his final year, Sujay is continuing his education with an eye toward his future impact as an artist. His vision extends beyond personal success; he aims to create boundary-pushing artworks and contribute to social change through community art projects and teaching engagements. Sujay’s journey is a testament to his courage, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the transformative power of art.

CEW+ applauds Sujay’s artistic courage and names him an Elsie Choy Lee Scholar.