Dream of Summer II Print

Monsoon seasons were magical, as my friends and I would have sailing competitions with paper boats. Scribbling was my cherished escape, be it on newspapers or sidewalk. Growing up in a small town in Central India, my family created a lively and vibrant environment, infused with the rich hues of Indian culture. My childhood was full of laughter, creativity, and endless encouragement from them, despite the neighborhood being restrictive and unsafe for girls. That sense of freedom and joy stayed with me. Painting becomes journey to the subconscious, fueled by the warmth and authenticity of those early years. Bold colors and textures translate the excitement I felt as a child. Often, I place my heroes—mostly children—in magnificent areas, showcasing the contrast between their vulnerability and the vast world awaiting to be conquered. On my canvas, I create an unrestricted space for them and myself. The first layer I put is using the color which allows me to connect with my emotion at that moment, building up layers using flat brushstrokes, to reveal an inseparable relationship between motion and sound of the surroundings. My process often includes scribbling the words from the songs or mantras playing in my head or in the ambience, interweaving words with imagery to tell a personal story. I hope that when people look at my paintings, they take a moment to pause, reflect, and reconnect with their own inner child amidst the chaos of life.