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Interview with Swarnova Datta

Interview with Swarnova Datta

by | Sep 21, 2019 | Blog, Digital Art, Digital Illustration, Digital Painting, Illustrations, Illustrator, interview

Interview with Swarnavo Datta

Swarnavo Datta, Illustrator

21st September, 2019

An engineer by qualification, a trainer by profession and an artist at heart, Swarnavo Datta creates awe-inspiring illustrations. He manages to capture the beauty in the most simple things, and isn’t that the best part about being an artist?

Famous for his illustrations on a square paper, his Instagram page is a treat to the eyes.

Here are the excerpts from the time when we caught up for a fun chat.

Could you tell us about yourself? When did you start making illustrations, and what made you start them?

I grew up in Kolkata, which is rich in art and culture. Just like every other kid, I was sent for art classes. 

In 2017, I took part in Inktober, (Every October, artists all over the world take on the Inktober drawing challenge by doing one ink drawing a day the entire month). 

As they say, anything that you do more than 21 times continuously becomes a hobby, and that’s how I got hooked on to sketching.

It’s been two years now, and there hasn’t been a single day that in which I haven’t sketched.

From where do you draw inspiration for your sketches?

Lately, I’ve realized that I enjoy creating portrait paintings the most. These portraits are inspired by people around me. Artists tend to perceive things differently.

What might look like just any other building can be our next magnificent painting. Beauty lies in the details of the most mundane things, and that’s where I draw my inspiration from.

How did you feel when you started conducting step-by-step tutorials? How were the responses?

Back when I was in Pune, I used to conduct workshops and enjoyed every bit of it. Being a trainer by profession, I have always been inclined towards teaching. I recently moved to Bangalore and haven’t been able to make time for workshops. So, I started taking step-by-step tutorials on my Instagram page, and I was overwhelmed by the responses I received.

Many feel that art is complex and that it’s too late to learn. My aim is to prove them wrong, by breaking down a painting into small and easy steps so that anyone can learn how to draw.

What are the difficulties you faced on your journey of becoming an artist?

I haven’t faced difficulties as such. But, when I wanted to pursue my career in art, I wasn’t encouraged much. Hailing from a city, that has art in every corner, it’s sad that we are forced to make mainsream career choices.

I ended up taking Electrical engineering. Luckily, I made time to stay in touch with my hobby, and establish myself as an artist.

Do you believe that art promotes relaxation?

When I start drawing, my mind is focussed entirely on the art and nothing else. I disconnect myself with the outside world. Isn’t that what meditation is? Shifting your focus soley on just one object?

 

Being an Urban sketcher, how important do you think travelling is?

More than travelling, I believe that sketching while travelling is important. If I were to make a portrait painting, I would probably choose a corner at home and not show the artwork to anyone until it’s complete. But, urban sketching kicks me out of the comfort zone. It makes me go out there in the public, observe the tiniest of details that lies in lights; shadows; walls and corners of each place.

The first time I went out in the public and started sketching, the experience was something I had never experienced before. There were several people peeping to get a sneak peak at what I was doing. Until then I had only tried to replicate either a photo or a painting.

Another important reason why I love urban sketching is that when you make a mistake while creating an urban sketch, you learn to live with and make it a part of your illustration instead of beating yourself over it.

Any projects that you’d like to talk about? What’s your ultimate dream project?

I have recently designed a book cover for an Australian author, which will be releasing a couple of weeks from now. I will also be taking part in a major pop culture convention that’s happening in Bangalore this year.

Wall murals are something I’m looking forward to do in the coming future. 

If you were to learn another form of art, what would it be?

I was a part of the college band, and have taken part in theatre as well. So, the only thing left is dance. 

If you could give an advice to your younger self, what would it sound like?

I would ask myself to not take life too seriously and stress about marks.

Who are few illustrators and artists that you admire?

Alicia Souza, for her illustrations relatble and adorable illustrations, and Upamanyu Bhattacharya for his brilliant urban sketches and illustrations.

Your thoughts about Stoned Santa?

I think it’s a great idea and I love the name.

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A comical ride – Interview with Akshara Ashok

A comical ride – Interview with Akshara Ashok

by | Sep 12, 2019 | Blog, Digital Art, Happy fluff Comics, Illustrations, Illustrator, interview, Web Comics

A comical ride – Interview with Akshara Ashok

Akshara Ashok, Comic Creator

12th September, 2019

Akshara Ashok is a well-known comic creator who is famous for her Happy Fluff Comics. She started making comics to cope up with the monotony of her college life. What started as a hobby, has now gained attention from all across the country and adored by all.

Her comics mostly revolve around everyday struggles a girl faces. They’re relatable, humorous and most of all, shatter all taboos.

Below are the excerpts from the quick chat we had with her.

When did you start making comics, and what made you start them?

I am a final year architectural student, and started making comic in the summer of 2017. I was tired of the monotonous college life and realized that this is not what I want to do.

I started channelizing my energy towards comics, and it also acted as an excellent platform to express my feelings and weird thoughts.

“Happy Fluff Comics” is your brain child. Can you share the story behind it?

To be honest, I never put much thought into the name. I just wanted to start a page, and even thought of reaming it later. But, over time it gained so much popularity, that I enjoy being called the “Fluff”.

I make comics to express my inner thoughts and also bring a smile on the faces of my viewers. Being the aggressive over thinker that I’m, these comics are just a visual representation of my thoughts.  Surprisingly, many people started relating to this, that’s when I realized that I’m not alone. My aim is to make relatable comics to give a good laugh to the readers and show them that they’re not alone.

Do you plan on taking this up full-time?

I’m a part time illustrator and a full-time architecture student. This is my final year at college. Once I’m done, I’ll focus on Happy Fluff Comics a lot more to make it better and bigger.

From where do you draw inspiration for your comics?

Thanks to my anxiety, I overanalyse every little thing around me. I notice things that most people don’t. These are simple everyday things that I go through. I can say that my life is my inspiration for the comics.

How do you think technology has changed the dynamics of art?

Technology has made it a lot easier for people like me to make art. I’m a very clumsy person, and whenever I make mistakes while doing traditional art, I break my head over it. But with technology any mistake can be undone using just a button.

Nonethless, Digital art requires the same amount of time and effort. It’s just another medium.

What do you wish to convey through your comics?

My comics are raw and I don’t try to censor anything. A lot of people stress over things thinking that it only happens to them, I just want to tell them that all of us go through similar experiences and that you’re not alone.

Any current projects that you’d like to talk about? What’s your ultimate dream project?

Not really, I’m just trying to find a balance between college work and my current projects.

Ultimate dream project would be to have a clothing line and to paint walls of an orphanage for disabled children.

What are the difficulties you faced on your journey of becoming an artist?

My growth on Instagram has been gradual. When I started out, I honestly did not think that I would get to where I am today. My comics and I were made fun of. My parents didn’t understand why I was so outspoken about things that people hesitate to speak about.

I have faced trolls like anyone else on the internet, but none of these bother me anymore. As long as I enjoy what I’m doing and give my readers a good laugh, I’m content.

 If you could learn another form of art, what would it be?

It would be some form of traditional art, like painting

Being an artist, what’s your biggest pet peeve?

I hate it when someone addresses my comics as ‘Memes’. NO! I do not make MEMES!

I also hate it when random pages post my work without credit and remove my watermark and place theirs on top.

If you could give an advice to your younger self, what would it sound like?

You’re better than what others think about you. You are good enough. The only person that can tell you what you can and cannot do, is you.

Who are few illustrators and comic creators that you admire?

Sarah Andersen was my inspiration to make comics. Other than that, Alicia Souza, Neha doodles, Ketnipz, Hannah Hillam and every other artist on the Internet.

Have you faced criticism? If yes, how did you deal with it?

Many people have criticised me for the type of content I put up and also for not getting the anatomy right. I believe that art isn’t about perfection, instead it’s the emotions that it evokes, that matter.

What are your thoughts about Stoned Santa?

First of all, love the name, it’s so creative and funny. Stoned Santa is a great platform for creators and my favourite is the String art section!

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Haters gonna hate. Potatoes gonna potate – Interview with Harsh Gopal

Haters gonna hate. Potatoes gonna potate – Interview with Harsh Gopal

by | Sep 11, 2019 | Blog, Digital Art, Harsh Gopal, Illustrations, Illustrator, interview, Truth Potato, Web Comics

Haters gonna hate, Poatoes gonna potate

Interview with Harsh Gopal

Harsh Gopal, Comic Creator

11th September, 2019

Amid the filters and pretentious posts on social media, there’s one adorable potato that’s spilling out bitter-sweet truths about life. The Bangalore based UX designer and illustrator, Harsh Gopal is the mastermind behind  “Truth Potato”.

Let’s admit it, everyone loves potatoes, no matter in which form. A potato dropping truth bombs about life is just a cherry on top. Harsh believes that people relate to visuals better than words and aims to spread messages through his quirky illustrations.

Read on more to find out what Harsh has to say about him potate-ing from his inner wisdom.

Everyone has their own definition of Art. What is yours?

To me art is something that helps me de-stress and unveil my inner-thoughts that delve deep within me. It also helps me escape from reality.

What are your earliest memories of drawing as a child?

I used to sketch as a kid. My earliest memory of drawing comics, is in school. It was called “Little Brahmin”, and revolved around hilarious moments in the life of a Little Brahmin and his close friend. [In retrospect, it might sound a little offensive, but in my defense, that was just an innocent depiction of my friend]

 

 “Truth Potato” is your brain child. Can you share the story behind it? Why did you choose a potato as the central character for your comics?

I have been asked this a hundred times and it always seems exciting to answer.

After a long day, I was sipping tea and crunching some fries (No points for guessing). Few fries down, and a thought struck my mind, “How does most of the world love anything related to potato? How would it be if a character in the form of a potato advised people about life?”

One quick Google search later, I realized that no similar character existed. Thus, the Truth potato was born.

Where do you draw inspiration for your comics, and what do you wish to convey through them?

I seek inspiration from anywhere and everywhere. If you look round, there are thousands of inspirational quotes out there, but not many take them seriously. The whole idea was to put forth these truths and advices that people wouldn’t accept otherwise.

As an artist, you must have worked on several interesting projects. Could you talk about projects that deserve a special mention?

Apart from drawing the mentioned comics, Little Brahmin and Truth Potato, I write poems and short stories for my blog – Frozen Panache whenever I find the time. Writing has always been my first love and I always wanted to get a book published. 

Few months back, I also started a YouTube channel, Mango Light Entertainment, with friends in a serious attempt to bring those stories to life.

How do you think technology has changed the dynamics of art?

Social media and graphic tablets have helped creators/artists showcase their talent better to the world unlike before.

Who are some illustrators and comic creators that you admire?

There are many comic creators that I love reading. My most favourite would be Alicia Souza, War and Peas and Poorly Drawn Lines .

How often do you face creative block, and how do you get over it?

Creative block is something one cannot escape from. The creative part of your brain is on a strike, and just refuses to work.

Initially, I used to dread this, but over time I have accepted creative block and try to deviate my attention to something else until I get fresh ideas.

If you could learn another form of art, what would it be?

Music. 

If you could give an advice to your younger self, what would it be?

“You’ll face failures pretty often but stick to what you believe in. Your definition of success needn’t be aligned to the world’s definition. You’ll make something out of a potato that people would love and no, it’s not a dish.”

 

How do you handle criticisms?

When Truth Potato got featured in Bored Panda the first time, there was lot of traffic coming in. That included lot of criticisms as well. There were people who loved Truth Potato and there were people who didn’t receive it well.

I would be lying if I said that the criticisms didn’t hurt me. But, it’s the criticism that make us a better version of ourselves. Nonetheless, there are some people out there spreading hate, no matter how good you are.

Over time, I have realized that I don’t work to please everyone, instead to bring smiles on the faces of few who appreciate my work.

What’s the bitter truth that you can tell to the budding artists and web comic creators?

Though technology has made putting your content out there to the mass easier, it has also made the process stringent. Do not give up and believe in your content. You’ll attract your niche audience with time.

What is the best way that we, as readers, can support you and other original content creators?

There’s nothing more important than support of your readers. Small little thinks like sharing a comic with your friends; giving due credits to the creator; purchasing any merchandise if your favourite artist has put something up for sale and supporting on Patreon, make a huge difference.  

What are your thoughts about Stoned Santa?

Stoned Santa is an interesting idea to gift something especially unique to your loved ones. Of everything I loved about Stoned Santa, what I loved the most is the concept that empowers artists to push their talented work to the users who would want a customized artwork as a gift.

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Interview with Sneha Ghildiyal – Putting art and soul into illustrations

Interview with Sneha Ghildiyal – Putting art and soul into illustrations

by | Jul 5, 2019 | Blog, Digital Art, Half asleep doodles, Illustrations, Illustrator, interview, Sneha Ghildiyal, Web Comics

Putting art and soul into illustrations

Interview with Sneha Ghildiyal

Sneha Ghildiyal, Illustrator

6th July, 2019

If you’re already not following Half Asleep Doodles, you are missing out! Sneha Ghildiyal, the master mind behind Half-Asleep-doodles and Art-tree8 makes delightful web comics and digital illustrations that can lighten up your mood.

Stoned Santa is grateful to Sneha for taking the time to talk to us about her journey as an artist. Read on more to find out about what she has to say.

When did you start drawing? What made you develop an inclination towards art?

I am naturally inclined towards art and have been drawing ever since I learnt how to hold a pencil.

Are you a self-taught artist? If yes, how has the journey been so far?

I have learnt drawing by myself and continue to learn. I graduated with a B.Com Honours degree and used to pursue CFA. Back then, no one at home saw art as a lucrative career option.

However, after a point I quit my job and decided to pursue art. Although it has been a tough journey, financially or otherwise, the satisfaction that I get by drawing cannot be compared to that of a corporate job.

“Half asleep doodles” is your brainchild. Can you share the story behind it?

Back when I was working for corporate, the only little time I found to doodle was late at night after I was done with my work and studies. Hence, the name “Half Asleep Doodles”. This helped me regain my sanity.

How do you think technology has changed the dynamics of art?

In a world where visuals are given more importance, technology has made it possible for many people who may not be natural artists, to portray their ideas in a creative way.

It has also made art a lot easier compared to the traditional mediums, but not knowing how to use traditional tools can be a major draw-back.

Which are the digital tools that you are grateful for?

Illustrator, Photoshop and Coreldraw.

What’s your thought process behind your abstract paintings?

 If I am having a rough day, the first thing I do is vent out these feelings through art. There is no fixed form or rule. I just draw what comes to my mind. 

Any current projects that you’d like to talk about? What’s your ultimate dream project?

I stay in the present and do not worry much about the future. Currently, I’m learning UI and UX designing. 

What is the misconception that people have about art?

People think that art is easy and it is not a viable career option.

What are the difficulties you faced on your journey of becoming an artist?

There is very less support for artists, outside the artist community. Financial stability is hard, unless you market yourself well. There were times when it became hard to make the ends meet.

If you could learn another form of art, what would it be?

Oil Painting!

If you could give an advice to your younger self, what would it sound like?

“Don’t be scared, nothing is impossible”

Who has been your biggest support?

My mother has always stood by me, even when people have asked me to quit it!

Your thoughts about Stoned Santa?

It’s a nice and quirky initiative! There are some amazing artists and sketches! They also keep experimenting with their art products, so that keeps the feed fresh, innovative, creative and fun!

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Deciphering Doodles with Sumouli Dutta

Deciphering Doodles with Sumouli Dutta

by | Jun 17, 2019 | Blog, Doodles, Illustrations, Illustrator, interview, Sumouli Dutta, Visual art, Woodle Doodle Designs

Deciphering Doodles with Sumouli Dutta – Meet the mastermind behind “Woode Doodle Designs”

Sumouli Dutta, Illustrator

20th May,2019

Sumouli Dutta is a self-taught illustrator and a visual artist  based in Kolkata who throws light on the stereotypes prevalent in our society by creating hilarious doodles. What started off as a hobby on the last pages of her books, has now evolved into an amazing Instagram page by the name “WoodleDoodleDesigns”.

Read on more to find out about Sumouli’s creative journey.

Every artist has their own personal definition of art. What is yours?

I see art as an an escape from the daily chaos. It is my passion and I live for it. I don’t make masterpieces everyday, but a simple doodle on the paper makes my day. Art is simple , but we all make it complicated.

What was your childhood like? Who inspired you to take up art?

My childhood was pretty normal. Just like any other middle class parents, my parents were keen on me taking up an extra-curricular activity. I am glad that I enrolled for drawing classes. I enjoyed and continue to enjoy every bit of it.

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“I use art to vent out all the negativity.”

Your comic strips are on everyday life, stereotypes and much more. What inspires you to make these?

Honestly and unfortunately my life is the inspiration. The societal pressure to take up a certain course; get married or have children takes away your peace of mind. I make comics to fight these stereotypes.  I use art to vent out all the negativity.

Has your perspective of looking at things changes after starting to draw?

 I have been drawing since I was a kid. My perspective has been shaped over the years. I have become more outspoken and unapologetic. Art has also helped me to connect to few amazing artists who have helped me gain different perspective towards art and life. 

Which is your favourite comic series of all time?

Mom and daughter comic series are my favourite. Trust me, they all are based on true stories!

How do you think technology has changed the dynamics of art?

Most of my drawings are done digitally. The advanced software and applications have helped artists like us to take art to the next level. Nonetheless, the joy of sketching on a paper remains incomparable.

What are the projects you are working on currently?

I am currently making illustrations for two story books for children. I also plan on launching a Diwali gift box.

If you had a superpower, what would it be?

I would love to see what the future holds for me, because I have tremendous anxiety issues!

 

What advice would you give to those artists who are interested in pursuing a career in string art?

Please Start! Don’t think about the consequences. Hustle hard, and you will reach your goal one day. Hard work pays off.

When I started my social media page, I never knew it would turn out to be what it is today. All I know is that I was passionate and dedicated. Eventually, it all turned out fine.

Lastly, they say that art can reduce stress and promote relaxation. Do you agree with this? How has being an artist affected your personal growth?

I strongly believe that art can induce mindfulness. I work for an organization from 9 to 5, like any other commoner. Art gives me a break from the boring routine. I cannot sleep without sketching.

Being an artist is no different. I believe we all are capable of doing something or the other, and I am grateful that I can draw. But, being an artist has helped me see things differently. I transcend into a totally different world the moment I sit with a pen and a paper.

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Good vibes only – Meet Swarnima Telang who spreads positivity through art

Good vibes only – Meet Swarnima Telang who spreads positivity through art

by | Jun 5, 2019 | Swarnima Telang, Blog, Illustrations, Illustrator, interview, itsahappyworld

Interview with Swarnima Telang

Good vibes only – Meet Swarnima, who spreads positivity through art

Swarnima Telang, Illustrator

20th May,2019

Swarnima Telang, a software engineer and an illustrator is spreading good vibes through delightful posts on her Instagram page“itsahappyworld”. She believes that “less is more”, and aims to put a smile on the faces of viewers.

Inspired by Ruskin Bond, her posts ask us to recognize that the real happiness isn’t something large and looming on the horizon, but something small, like having a cup of coffee with someone you love; baking the perfect cake; a warm sunset or a walk through nature.

Caught up with the busyness of our life, we often forget to appreciate the beauty in simplicity. Read on more to find Swarnima’s take on art, simplicity, life and more

 

Art can be perceived differently by everyone. What is “Art” to you?

For someone like me who’s not very good with words, my artwork reflects my thoughts. It is a way to transit myself to a different world, my place of imagination. Art helps me calm myself and gives me happiness.

How did Ruskin Bond inspire your art style?

I have always loved reading books and read my first Ruskin Bond’s story as a kid in my textbook. But at that time, it was just another English lesson. A few years back I picked up one of his books and started reading and I couldn’t stop.

The simplicity of his words and expressions; the flow and the way he describes the little things instantly made me feel good. His take on simple pleasures of life made me realize how we unnecessarily complicate things. I want to convey the same message to my audience through art.  

I believe that ‘Less is more’

You believe in finding beauty in simplicity. Could you tell us more about this?

I believe that ‘Less is more’, and the pleasure that lies in simple things and little gestures cannot be found in the fanciest of things. We live in a very competitive world where we are constantly comparing our lives on social media, which at times make us feel less about ourselves.

No matter where we go or what we do, there’s always someone better. So we must learn to be content and focus on what truly makes us happy. 

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How important do you think traveling is, for artists?

I am a wanderlust and believe that travelling is like a therapy. The vibes of a new place; talking to strangers; sitting in a roadside cafe help to look at things from a different perspective. It gives fresh ideas, and can certainly break the artists’ block.

Any current projects that you’d like to talk about? Do you have an ultimate dream project?

Currently, I am focusing on my website and my Instagram page ‘itsahappyworld’, to create happy content for my viewers.

My dream project is to design a cover or illustrate a Ruskin Bond’s book.

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If you could learn another art form, what would it be?

Dance! I love dancing as much as I love drawing. Being a hard-core fan of Madhuri, I’ve always wanted to learn Kathak. Trust me, in my head I’ve choreographed few amazing pieces.

Have you ever hit rock bottom? If yes, how did you get back on your feet?

Fortunately, I’ve never experienced it.

If you could go back in time and change one decision that you made, what would it be?

Absolutely Nothing. I am here today because of all the decisions that I’ve made, right or wrong. I firmly believe that whatever happens, happens for the good. So, I wouldn’t change a thing as I’m absolutely grateful for what I have.

Many people look up to your work. Do you plan on conducting workshops?

Yes, I do wish to have workshops in future. Whenever I get a chance I will.

Who has been your greatest support throughout your journey?

From the start, my family and friends have been my biggest support. They’ve encourages and appreciated every artwork of mine. My mom is the first one to comment and share my posts, even today.

This would’ve been impossible without my husband’s cooperation. When I’m busy completing orders, he’s the one who manages everything at home, and when I launched my merchandise, he solely managed the logistics and other requirements.

What advice would you give for budding artists?

Keep practising. Don’t rush into anything. Use multiple references and create the artwork in your own style. Most importantly, draw for yourself and you will always find people who will relate to them.

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