Nayanaa Kanodia (b. 1950), based in Pune, Maharashtra, is an economist turned painter renowned for her exceptional use of color. Her work masterfully combines contemporary art with traditional Indian themes, revealing a distinctive individualism.

As a pioneer of the L'Art Naif genre in India, Kanodia offers a unique perspective on Indian society through her innovative approach. Her art is characterized by whimsical charm, flat bright surfaces, and vibrant, dynamic colors, intricately detailed with an array of patterns. She creates a crystalline utopia that blends innocence with subtle irony, capturing the interplay of East and West with wit and gentle satire. Through her paintings, Kanodia provides poignant commentary on India's changing landscape, portraying celebrities, urban elites, and everyday individuals. Her art encompasses various facets of Indian life—both past and present—including weddings, bazaar scenes, vehicles, ancient sports, and beach compositions. As India undergoes economic growth, many traditional scenes are vanishing, and Kanodia's work reflects the tension between clinging to roots and embracing modern conveniences. Her art presents harsh social realities through a fresh and distinctive lens.

Nayanaa graduated with an Honours Degree in Economics from Lady Shri Ram College, New Delhi (1972), and received the National Scholarship from the Government of India the same year. She furthered her artistic skills with a year-long apprenticeship under the celebrated artist Anjolie Ela Menon (1974-1975). Honored in Reinhard Fuchs's "Women in Art" (2010), her art, known for its compelling social messages, is used in educational contexts in the USA, particularly by schools in Los Altos. Kanodia also gives talks, conducts workshops, and presents on art at various organizations and universities. Her distinguished career includes a solo show at The Commonwealth Institute in London (1998) and an award from the Ministry of Culture, Government of India (2016). She has participated in Art Camps across India, London, Sweden, Italy, Moscow, Greece, Bangkok, and Cambodia. Her works are featured in prestigious collections, such as the Musée International d'Art Naïf in Paris, and she has exhibited globally, including at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London (2008).