Tickle Your Art: A Startup Turning Creativity into Inclusion

A startup can do more than build a business; it can create opportunities for people often overlooked by society.

Tickle Your Art, founded by architect Shweta Runwal, is doing exactly that by transforming the artwork of people with Down syndrome and intellectual disabilities into products while creating pathways to paid employment and greater independence.

The idea emerged from Shweta’s daughter Dhriti’s love for drawing. One day, Dhriti used a simple drawing to express her sadness about a friend moving away.

This experience helped Shweta recognise how art could become a powerful form of communication and self-expression.

Inspired by her daughter’s creativity and her interactions with other families, Shweta began building a platform that focused on abilities rather than limitations.

She formally registered Tickle Your Art in October 2020, with Dhriti becoming its first artist.

The startup collaborates with neurodiverse artists to transform their original creations into lifestyle products, books and corporate gifts. Importantly, it aims to preserve each artist’s unique style rather than impose conventional artistic expectations.

Beyond selling products, Tickle Your Art provides training, mentorship and paid work.

It has worked with more than 25 neurodiverse artists, helping them develop their skills, gain recognition and build confidence.

The initiative also offers flexible working arrangements. Artists can contribute from home or at its community centre, depending on their needs. This approach helps make creative employment more accessible.

For instance, Rohan, a 33-year-old artist with experience in animation and digital design, joined the initiative after losing his earlier employment during the pandemic. The opportunity helped him reconnect with his creative interests.

Tickle Your Art gained wider attention through Shark Tank India, where investor Anupam Mittal backed the venture.

Dhriti also received the National Award in the Shreshth Divyang Balika category, bringing further recognition to the family’s journey.

The startup has participated in international showcases, including an exhibition in Berlin involving The DO and H&M. It has also received grant support and recognition for its inclusive approach.

Looking ahead, Shweta hopes to establish similar community spaces across India, expanding access to creative training and employment.

Tickle Your Art demonstrates how a purpose-driven startup can combine creativity, commerce and social impact.

By turning original artwork into meaningful opportunities, it is helping artists gain visibility, earn an income and participate more fully in society.

Image Credit: Tickleyourart Website Screenshot

Image Reference: https://tickleyourart.com/