ART REVIEW BOARD APPLICATION QUESTIONS RESPONSES:
DR. MONIKA CHUGH
1. Why do you wish to serve as a member of this Board or Commission? I wish to serve on this Board because I believe in contributing to my community's well- being. With my background in healthcare, writing, art and craft, and mindfulness practices, I hope to bring a thoughtful, compassionate perspective to the commission. Fremont has given me a sense of belonging for many years, and this is my way of giving back to a city that continues to inspire inclusivity, growth, and community support. I appreciate the City’s commitment to community engagement and would be honored to support its efforts to nurture a more connected environment.
2. What would you bring by way of perspective or experience to this Board or Commission?
I bring a blend of healthcare experience, creative expression, arts and crafts and heartfelt community engagement. Years of working closely with patients have taught me to listen deeply, observe carefully, and respond with empathy. Through my writing, affirmations, art creations and mental-wellness projects, I’ve developed the ability to communicate with clarity and compassion. This allows me to offer a perspective that is both analytical and intuitive, grounded in human connection. I approach decision-making with attention to detail, openness, and integrity, offering a thoughtful and compassionate voice to the Board.
3. Special awards or recognitions you have received:
• Commendation for Rotary Poet of the Year 2025 (International). • Pushcart Poetry Prize Nominee.
• Author of two artistically created books below:
~Quote Café - The Silent Soul - Thoughts In A cup.
~A Quiet Zone With Journaling – Affirmation Diaries.
• Recognized for continued service and contributions within Rotary and community wellness projects.
• Writer for wellness and mindfulness magazines.
• Featured poet in Figments of Tomorrow anthology.
I manage and create three platforms/websites that reflect my work in wellness, creativity, art and community engagement:
1. Ārogini
A non-profit started by me, rooted in Ayurveda, mindfulness, and holistic living. It focuses on eye health, emotional well-being, journaling for mental clarity, and simple daily practices that help people reconnect with balance.
Website: https://www.aarogini.com/
2. Canvas & Quotations
An artistic collaboration featuring soulful quotes, affirmations, home care products and a curated denim clothing line in collaboration with Denim Ink, and visual art creations. The work blends art and words to inspire reflection, healing, and personal growth. It includes themed collections, prints, journals, and thoughtfully designed pieces centered on strength, hope, and inner beauty.
Website: https://www.canvasandquotations.com/
3. Monika Chugh
My personal website brings together my poetry, affirmations, books, art creations, creative wellness projects, and community initiatives. It reflects my journey combining healthcare, writing, and service, and serves as a home for my work in healing through words and art.
Website: https://monikachugh.com/
Community/Voluntary Organizations:
Rotary – Roles & Responsibilities
International Chair - 2020
• Community Service & Outreach:
Participate in Rotary-led humanitarian projects that support local and global community needs.
• Event Support & Coordination:
Assist in organizing service activities, fundraisers, and awareness programs. • Creative & Cultural Contributions:
Share poetry, affirmations, and reflective writing for Rotary events and community gatherings.
• Volunteer Engagement:
Encourage member participation, support team coordination, and contribute to project planning.
• Ethical Leadership & Fellowship:
Uphold Rotary’s values of integrity, compassion, and service above self while fostering unity and fellowship among members.
Maitri (Domestic Violence Support) – Roles & Responsibilities • Awareness & Education:
Participate in and help promote workshops, discussions, and community sessions focused on domestic violence awareness and prevention.
• Supportive Outreach:
Offer compassionate listening, guidance, and connections to resources for individuals seeking help.
• Advocacy Through Writing & Expression:
Use poetry, affirmations, art and creative expression to raise awareness, offer hope, and support emotional healing.
• Collaboration with Community Groups:
Work with local organizations, shelters, and support networks to strengthen outreach and ensure that survivors receive the assistance they need. • Event Participation:
Support Maitri's domestic-violence events, art campaigns, and community drives dedicated to safety, empowerment, and wellbeing.
• Maitri – Peer Counselor & Advocate
• Serve as a Peer Counselor, providing emotional support, active listening, and guidance to individuals experiencing domestic violence. • Assist clients in navigating resources, safety planning, and rebuilding confidence during difficult transitions.
• Contribute to community awareness about domestic violence through outreach, education, and compassionate support.
Education Information:
Doctor of Optometry
New England College Of Optometry - Boston- 1997
Employment Information:
Managing OD – Mission Valley Eye Medical Center, Fremont.
Associate OD – Eye Exam of California, San Jose.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
My journey into art and writing has grown naturally alongside my background in healthcare and community service. As an eye care professional, I have spent decades listening to people, not only to their clinical needs but also to their lived experiences. This has deeply shaped how I approach art: as a quiet, accessible language that supports reflection, emotional well-being, and connection.
Through my writing, affirmations, and visual art projects, I aim to create spaces that feel inclusive, calming, and human. My work often explores themes of resilience, healing, mindfulness, and inner strength values that align closely with community well-being and public engagement.
I have collaborated on community-centered initiatives involving seniors, children, domestic violence awareness groups, and international mindfulness platforms, and I continue to explore ways art can gently support mental health, belonging, and dialogue. I am especially interested in projects that bring art into everyday public spaces, libraries, schools, senior centers, hospitals and civic environments where it can be experienced without barriers.
If given the opportunity to serve, I would bring a thoughtful, compassionate perspective to the Art Commission, valuing collaboration, cultural sensitivity, and the role of art as a bridge between diverse voices in Fremont. I see public art not only as a visual expression, but as a shared experience that quietly nurtures the soul of a city.