KUALA LUMPUR, 20 November 2025: For former call-centre worker Caroline Rajan, art transformed from a creative outlet into a lifeline following her HIV diagnosis at age 23. Now, the 45-year-old visual abstract artist and teacher is planning her first solo exhibition, which she hopes will empower and support other women living with the condition.
The Petaling Jaya-born artist overcame a decade-long struggle with depression, substance abuse, and suicidal thoughts by embracing painting, which allowed her to express the shame and isolation she felt.
Art as a Tool for Healing and Advocacy
Caroline, whose exhibition is titled “The Unsung Voices: Women Living with HIV,” stressed that art gave her the courage to relay vital messages to the world. “Art has allowed me to express myself. Without it, I wouldn’t have the courage to back up the messages I wish to relay to the world. It really has the power to change lives,” she shared.
Her experience motivated her to become a voice for others with HIV, particularly women, who she noted lack adequate online support resources. “For so long, I was afraid of showing people who I was, disclosing my diagnosis. But I knew that had to change,” Caroline emphasized. She now advocates for empowerment, advocacy, and affordable HIV testing for everyone.
Exhibition Details and Personal Journey
The exhibition, “The Unsung Voices: Women Living with HIV,” will run from December 5-9. A portion of the proceeds from the sales of her artwork will be donated to charity.
- Content: The exhibition features 19 mixed-media paintings, each representing one of the emotional stages Caroline underwent since receiving her diagnosis 22 years ago. Her works depict women of color, symbolizing that the disease can affect anyone.
- Dedication: The exhibition is dedicated to her late parents, who were crucial to her survival and artistic development. Her mother provided art lessons, and her father never missed one of her doctor’s appointments.
Caroline hopes visitors will look beyond the paintings to the underlying stories of resilience, courage, and healing. “Hopefully something in this exhibition, or in my words, will touch people, especially women who might be going through similar journeys,” she concluded.
Source: FreeMalaysiaToday
