Respite Print

Sheetal Durve is an artist and author hailing from Pune and currently based in the vibrant city of Dubai, United Arab Emirates. From a young age, Sheetal was immersed in arts, attending exhibitions, performances and concerts with her culturally-inclined parents. This early exposure sparked a passion that would shape the course of her life. Sheetal received formal education in art, classical dance and music, and later pursued a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. While she initially worked in advertising, It wasn't long before she realised that her true calling was painting. She made the brave decision to become a full-time artist and has never looked back. Sheetal’s art is inspired by nature and the current state of the world. She captures and expresses her influences through soul-stirring emotions on canvas, using a wide range of mediums including watercolour, oil, acrylic and mixed media. She is particularly drawn to the stunning array of colours and rhythms in nature and much of her work reflects this awe-inspiring beauty. However, she is also deeply affected by the political, humanitarian and social issues of the world and this is often reflected in her art. Sheetal’s dedication to making a positive impact on the world extends beyond her art. She has been involved in art therapies for Alzheimer's and grief support groups and has donated her work to various causes and charities. She also shares her passion for art with the underprivileged and special needs children through workshops and classes. Sheetal is also the author of two children’s books, “Dream Diaries” and “Dream On,” which have received recognition at the Emirates Literature Festival in Dubai and all over the world. Her artworks have been exhibited in galleries and museums around the globe, including in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, The United States, India, Italy, Japan, South Korea and United Kingdom. She has received numerous awards and accolades for her work, including being named one of the 50 inspiring women in the UAE, and receiving the Visionary Women Award in Dubai in 2021. With her unique blend of creativity and social consciousness, Sheetal’s art is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also meaningful and impactful. Her dedication to her craft and her community make her a true inspiration to many.