Hello, my name is Brindha Kumar. I'm a Malaysian illustrator currently based in London.

This illustration above depicts a tranquil garden scene where figures, animals, and objects create a sense of calm and empowerment. The serene setting mirrors RU’s mission to provide a supportive space for reproductive health and information access. Women holding devices like phones or tablets represent the pursuit of knowledge and self-care, core to the coalition’s values. Animals like weasels and red pandas, known for their ability to delay pregnancy, symbolize choice and the importance of reproductive autonomy.

• Can you tell us about your journey to becoming an artist? Did you always know that this was the path you wanted to follow?

  I've always loved drawing since I was a child, but I never considered it as a potential career. That changed when I pursued a degree in graphic communication design. During that time, I used illustration as my main approach to solving project briefs, and that’s when I realised I wanted to become an illustrator. I haven’t looked back since!
  
  

• How do your culture and environment influence your artistic practice? In what ways do they shape your work?

  Growing up in Malaysia, I never realised just how deeply and subconsciously it would shape my artistic evolution. It’s rich culture and heritage have played a significant role in my work. This can be seen in my illustration style, where I combine Malaysian influences with contemporary digital abstraction. By juxtaposing these elements, I aim to create a striking contrast that blends the ornate and organic with the minimal and mechanical, highlighting the intersection of tradition and modernity.
  
  

• How does access to reproductive health resources in your community affect your artwork or personal life? What impact does it have on your perspective?

  While there has been some progress in reproductive health resources in Malaysia, it is still unfortunately very restricted due to cultural, legal, and infrastructural challenges. Abortion is only legal when the mother’s life or physical/mental health is at risk, if not, it is generally inaccessible. In many ways, Malaysia is seen as lagging behind, prompting many young people to seek better opportunities abroad. This is a key reason why I chose to move to London. Though I deeply love and draw inspiration from my country, there is still much work to be done.