Scribbles to Strokes - The Artist's Odyssey
Hey there, fellow art enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventure seekers! Welcome to my very first blog, where I'm about to take you on a thrilling journey through the colorful chapters of my life. From winning drawing contests in kinder garden as a wide-eyed kid to plunging headfirst into the exhilarating world of art, my story is a tapestry of passion, creativity, and unyielding determination.
Mumbai's Canvas and Family of Architects
Imagine growing up in the heart of Mumbai, a city that never sleeps, always pulsating with life and color. With an architect as a parent, I was destined to have art and design coursing through my veins. My parents spotted my artistic flair early on and wasted no time enrolling me in drawing classes and competitions. However, the true magic unfolded when I crossed paths with Bharti Damankar, my art teacher, whose unwavering patience and guidance nurtured my talent from the age of 12 into my twenties.
Mini me drawing on a big black board in my bedroom
Building Dreams and Parisian Flair
After completing school, I embarked on a five-year journey through architecture school. These transformative years opened my eyes to the wonders of design, and I reveled in the art of crafting architectural masterpieces. An exchange program in the enchanting city of Paris added a touch of elegance to my artistic repertoire.
A Paintbrush in Hong Kong
In 2007, fresh out of college, I embarked on a six-month adventure to Hong Kong, joining an international architecture firm. But the call of art was never too far away. Back in Mumbai, I reconnected with my beloved art teacher, and it was during this reunion that I was introduced to the enchanting world of acrylic painting. This marked the first significant step on my journey towards becoming an artist.
Teaching, Transformation, and Tropical Paradise
Between 2012 and 2015, I took a brief hiatus from art to share my knowledge by teaching design to aspiring architects. Guiding them through the intricacies of color theory, design principles, and the art of space was undeniably fulfilling. However, the allure of art was an itch I couldn't ignore. Feeling lost regarding the new path to pursue, I turned to my architecture school director, Akhtar Chauhan, and his response was simple yet profound: "just paint." A kind, nurturing man with exceptional teaching skills, he consistently recognized the potential in his young students and guided them in the right direction. Encouraged by my loving husband and inspired by my students, I dove back into painting in 2016 as we embarked on our newly married life in the tropical haven of Goa, India.
Those initial three years in Goa were a whirlwind of creativity. The lower cost of living allowed me to experiment freely with painting, and the lush natural surroundings reignited my love for plants, which soon became a central theme in my art. During this time, I was fortunate to make sales and secure unique commissions.
That’s me working on a huge commisioned mural, which now sits at a saree showroom in Bangalore, India.
An Artistic Epiphany in the Big Apple
In 2017, an impromptu trip to the mesmerizing city of New York turned into a life-altering experience. While my husband fulfilled his best man duties in Toronto, I was captivated by the vibrant art scene of the Big Apple. Museums and galleries became my playground, and I emerged completely 'art-spired'!
The Canadian Connection
Back in India, I realized it was time to give my art the recognition it deserved. Being married to a Canadian provided the perfect opportunity to explore new horizons. In November 2018, I touched down in Vancouver, and that's when my artistic journey truly began to flourish.
Vancouver Vibes and Artistic Triumphs
Vancouver welcomed me with open arms into its thriving artist community. The open-mindedness of the people here boosted my confidence as both a woman and an artist. I had the privilege of participating in group and solo exhibitions, leaving my mark on a mural, and drawing inspiration from the breathtaking natural beauty of Vancouver.
The Empowering East Vancouver Studio
In 2023, after navigating the unpredictable waters of the pandemic, I finally realized my dream of securing a studio in East Vancouver. This studio is now part of the prestigious East Side Culture Crawl, and having a dedicated space for my craft fills me with joy and empowerment.
In my studio at Eastside Atelier, East Vancouver.
Painting the Future
My journey from early scribbles to bold strokes is a testament to the power of following your passions and embracing the artist within. So, whether you're an art collector, interior designer, architect, nature lover, or thrill-seeker, I invite you to join me on this colorful adventure as we uncover the beauty in every brushstroke, find inspiration in every design, and discover the magic in every creation. Here's to art and the endless possibilities it holds!
