Our 'WHY' and our reason for Being
CURATING A CREATIVE LIFE
To us, 'a creative life' is not just about making art. Living creatively means staying curious, embracing the in-betweens and choosing meaning over perfection.
Our products reflect this spirit.
From teabag art to thoughtful gifts, we create with lived experiences: family kitchens, childhood games, monsoon afternoons and the rhythms of life in Meghalaya.
We turn these moments into meaningful objects you can gift, keep and pass on.
About The Studio
We are a Creative Studio based in Shillong, India. We create for the ones who find joy in the little things, cherish stories that feel like home and who believe art can be both personal and purposeful.
For those who seek to gift meaning, reflect on beauty or learn the art of building a creative life, Candour on Canvas offers original artwork, thoughtful gift, and creative workshops around authentic storytelling.
About the Artist
Candour on Canvas is led by owner-illustrator-designer, Samanda Nora Pyngrope.
Samanda, an educator and industrial designer by profession, found her love for storytelling and anecdotal miniature art in 2017. What began with a teabag and a paintbrush during a time of personal transition has grown into a heartfelt brand that creates art and objects for people who seek meaning in the everyday.
Samanda's work is influenced by her personal journey, her Khasi roots and everyday reflections. Developing visuals through the use of teabag art techniques has become a particularly exciting and compelling method of creating illustration work for her, adding a unique character and texture to her creations.
She runs a parallel venture, Karaki Design Lab based in Shillong.
Our Values
OUR CORE BELIEFS
Our values are the heartbeat of why we do what we do.
Creating with Candour
Embracing the genuine and unfiltered essence of artisitic expression, we're committed to creating art that is true to our roots and the everyday stories we represent.
Sustainable
Connection
The studio values the respect for material and resources.
Our products are produced in small batches with eco-friendly practices wherever possible.
Celebrating Mindfulness
With a focus on mindful practices, the studio values the process of creating art as a meditative practice, encouraging reflection and faith in each stroke and colour.
Innovating
With Media
We encourage exploring unique mediums and the pursuit of new and exciting methods to express creativity.
There is no one size fits all.
Our New Iniative for 2026!
CANDOUR CARES FUND
A portion of our Faith & Reflection Collection carries a small contribution towards the Candour Cares Fund, which supports community care initiatives in Meghalaya.
Using this fund, we provided support and sponsorship to Speak Your Roots, an initiative dedicated to documenting the indigenous culture of the Khasi–Jaintia community, for their celebration of International Mother Language Day, 2026.
Have a community project, cultural initiative, or grassroots idea that needs a little support?
We’re always looking to partner with individuals and groups working to preserve culture, empower people and create meaningful impact. If your work aligns with our values, we’d love to hear from you — reach out and tell us your story.
We aim to serve our community with something better each year.
2017-2019
Beginnings of the studio, creating and community building.
2020-2021
Accepting commissioned work and collaborative projects.
2021-2023
The start of the much-loved Candour Calendar, an annual release.
THROUGH THE YEARS
Candour On Canvas
