Cafe Brittania Painting

I was born in a place in south west India, close to Goa. My father was an agriculturist and social worker, and my mother was an author. I was lucky to grow up in a forest. My father and I walked the dogs in the woods and fields everyday whenever I was home. I spent a great deal of my time away, leaving my parents at the age of five to go away to school. A lifetime of boarding schools and hostels followed. But every long weekend and vacation was at home, much looked forward to. I grew up to love the forest, its peace, tranquility, its ways and quiet joys. I had always loved to draw, starting even before I could write. Scribbling and doodling were never frowned upon in my childhood, and my parents encouraged my art. Eventually, I became an art director. Working in advertising agencies taught me many things, and I had a rewarding career of 14 years. I left when we were financially settled, and now am fortunate to paint almost full time. I teach twice a week, and paint the rest. I paint what I care about - my city (Mumbai), the people who live here, the tropical forest I grew up in, childhood memories. I find my work takes two routes - one is to paint the city and people, and the other is to paint the forest. I guess my father's influence of agriculture and socialism are responsible for these divergent ways. I have been exhibiting since 2013, and have been fortunate to have my work shown in Dubai, Paris, Qatar. My work has been bought by collectors from the UK, US, Dubai, New Zealand and India. I also undertake commissioned work and murals. www.menamalgavkar.com