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Meet Bijay Biswaal, whose paintings traveled the world

Meet Bijay Biswaal, whose paintings traveled the world

Meet the Railwayman – Artist Bijay Biswaal, whose paintings traveled the world

Artist – Bijay Biswaal, quit his full-time job with the Indian Railways to pursue his career in art full-time and is now famous for his work across the world. 

We learned about his humble beginnings and his transition from a railwayman to a world-famous painter who has traveled the world creating art and spreading joy.

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

I have never tried to define art, it’s not something that can be explained in words or phrases. It’s felt by the heart, and not the mind. For me Art is a form of expression, a form of passion with no boundaries. Art makes me truly happy.

How did you get started with art? 

When I was 3 or 4, I remember picking up burnt wood charcoal from the earthen stoves my mom would cook on, painting the walls of my house and getting scolded by my mother. As a child, I would pick any surface and start drawing and doodling.

When I joined the school I started scribbling on the slate with chalk, and I would end up drawing something or the other, irrespective of the surface. Art came to me naturally.

How did you choose Train as a subject for your paintings? 

I was posted in the Indian Railways, and the majority of my work involved spending time in the trains and the platforms, and I think I did not choose the train, it chose me. 

When I started painting trains, a lot of my friends told me – It is such a boring and metallic thing to paint, but I did not pay attention to that, and soon enough Trains have become a world-famous genre in painting. 

I think sometimes Subjects choose you, and sometimes Art chooses you. 

Where do you draw your inspiration from? 

Nature and music. I sometimes end up painting 8-9 hours in my studio listening to music, while I groove my body and the paintbrush on a canvas, and I think there is a spiritual connection, and that is my moment of ecstasy. 

How did you know it’s time to take art full-time and decided to take retirement from the Railways?

It was always in my mind, all I wanted was to paint. It would break my heart when I had to leave my canvases empty and go to work. I would wait for my shifts to get over so that I could go back and paint, no matter what time it was, I would never sleep with an incomplete canvas. Never! 

My wife –Pranati Biswaal, played a huge role in helping me gather the strength and the courage to take this decision because she always believed in me.

Talking about your transition from a traditional job to a totally different field – Art? 

I have always focused on my academics, and I am a MA First Class Degree holder, with a legal degree. I have always wanted to be financially secure so that I did not have to burden my father financially to buy me paint or canvas. 

The railways have always been very supportive of my art, and I think the best gift I got from my time serving the Indian Railways, was the exposure I got to the places of India, and the people around, it helped me discover my style. 

What sacrifices have you made to become what you are today? 

I would paint like a mad man, people would know me as the mad railwayman who paints all the time. Looking back, I realized I have always prioritized painting over cups of tea, a game of cards, or sleep. 

I wouldn’t call them sacrifices, because it never felt like one. 

“Best moment was to quit my job to pursue art full-time”

Best moments in life? 

Oscar moment when PM mentioned about me and my work in his “Mann ki Baat” in 2015. Another iconic moment for me was when Suresh Prabhu, Railway Minister invited me to “Rail Vikas Shivir”, and I was given one dedicated pavilion for Art. 

Speaking to him I put up my request to gift one of my paintings to our Prime Minister –  Narendra Modi, and when Mr. Modi saw it, he said “Biswaal Ji Nagpur Waale”, I have seen this painting several times on the internet, and seeing this in real life makes me truly happy. 

The same painting made history in 2018 when it was auctioned by the National Gallery of Modern Art – NGMA, Delhi for raising funds for the Namami Ganga Project.

What are your thoughts Corona and its impact on your work?

The best time to create art and this is the best time for me. I am truly happy to find this time to create and experiment with a lot of styles I earlier couldn’t because of other engagements I would have. 

Although I wouldn’t mind if I am locked down for another 6 months. However, I hope this gets over soon, and humanity is back to its usual track.  

How did you get started with the idea of hosting Art workshops, and what can one expect from such workshops? 

I love the ambiance that workshops give me. I have been to countries like Russia, Qatar, Nepal, Mauritius and so many more. Looking back I realize, I never planned for this. All these opportunities came to me, and I was happy to take these opportunities up. 

If you have the quality, you will be found. All you have to do is continue doing what you love with no strings and expectations attached to the outcome(s).

My main focus has always been to keep it simple. I truly enjoy sharing my experience with the people who come to experience art with me.

Throughout your journey, who has been your biggest support?

My wife is like a pillar of strength. She has always fuelled me with a lot of passion, and if I have to credit someone for where I am today, it would be my wife – Pranati Biswaal. 

She always wanted me to pursue art full-time, she’d always given me the support and the positive vibes I ever needed. I am grateful to her for everything. 

Art as a therapy? 

I am the happiest man, I am so positive, always. Whenever I am in my studio, I forget everything, I am transported to another dimension altogether. Paintings aren’t just colors, they are stories. 

Let’s take watercolor as a beautiful medium, all you need to do is put color on paper, and they blend to create a flavor that will make you feel ecstatic. I always compare watercolor to a game of 20-20 cricket, which is active, lively and gives you tremendous satisfaction. 

Any common man can experience this ecstasy, people suffering from dyslexia, or ADHD or concentration, you can engage people for longer if they are given colors. 

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

Gone are the days when you will have to find Buyers or approach Art galleries to showcase or sell your work. You are a couple of clicks away from potentially reaching millions with no one to stop you. 

Which are some of the most memorable projects that you have worked on?

I was in Hojer, Denmark, the only Indian artist to be invited to paint their historical sites, old barns, and distilleries. I would have made 23 paintings (Plane Air – Doing it live), the owners of the gallery that hired me would take me to different locations, we would have breakfast, and brunch, and go back in the evening. 

That feeling of capturing the rich culture of a place was ecstatic.

Have you ever felt an Art Block? How do you recommend artists to get over such creative blocks? 

Artists say I feel an Art block, writers say Writer block, people say I don’t have a mood to paint. But I am always in the mood to paint, even if I don’t want to. I will sit on the canvas and put in work to see the magic happen. 

“Just do it”, inspiration and motivation will come to you when you’re in the flow, for that state of flow you have to start, Right? 

What advice would you give to the budding artists?

Paint only if it makes you happy. Don’t add hopes to it – Will I be famous?  Will I be able to sell? Will I be able to find my own style? Put your head down and draw and sketch. 

Make as many as 20 sketches a day. Not masterpieces, just sketches and doodles.

“When asked how many artworks you would have drawn, I would have made millions of drawings and art forms”.

How can an artist discover their unique style?

The finest compliment an artist can get – “ I can identify your artwork without looking at the signature”, and I think this only comes with a lot and a lot of experience. The more you do, the closer you are to your own style. 

If you are always looking to discover your style, you will never find it. The key lies in doing what you do every day, and one day your style will find you. 

What are your thoughts on Stoned Santa?

Innovative, the fact that you are trying to show the world that Art can be gifted to people. Elegant endeavor and I hope you keep inspiring and helping more and more artists. 

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Meet the creator of Green Humour, Rohan Charkravarty

Meet the creator of Green Humour, Rohan Charkravarty

A comical twist to the wild –An interview with the creator of Green Humour

Rohan Chakravarty, the creator of Green Humoura comic series on wildlife conservation and awareness is a brilliant cartoonist and an illustrator. His comic strips are not only published in The Hindu, Mid-day, Round Glass and many other wildlife journals, but they are also extremely popular on Instagram.

From the polar bears of the Arctic, koalas of Australia to tigers of India, he spreads awareness on a wide range of wildlife species through humorous cartoons.

A dentist by education, Rohan transformed himself into an artist. Either way, his work puts a smile on our faces through hilarious, yet thought-provoking comics.

He says that no awards or accolades are more valuable than the actual impact that his comics have on his viewers. 

Read more to find out about his journey.

When did you start making comics? How did you decide to pursue it?

Ever since I was a kid, I have been in the habit of drawing and cartooning. It is only after I made the mistake of choosing dentistry that I realized that it wasn’t my calling. Soon after, I worked at various media houses and animation studios for a few years. The experience of creating custom artwork for my clients helped me not only sustain myself as a full-time cartoonist, but also gave me deep insight into the world of design.

It’s been over 10 years since I started making comics, and 7 years since my work started getting published in the Print media, and I do not regret any of it.

Why did you choose wildlife as the central theme for your comics series – “Green Humour”?

Wildlife has been something that has fascinated me throughout my life. I was on a trip to one of the National Parks when I saw a wild tigress and I remember I was captivated by this beautiful majestic sight, that’s when I found my calling. I thought why not combine the two elements – Art and Wildlife, and “Green Humour” was born.

For someone like you whose comics are based on wildlife? How important is traveling?

Although I do not travel much as I’m conscious of the carbon footprint that is associated with it, certain projects demand my visit to the place, especially when I have to create illustrated maps of sanctuaries and parks.

However, I would definitely recommend traveling to artists. Personal experiences and first-hand information are incomparable with any other secondary source of information. 

Have you seen every bird or animal which are illustrated in your comic series?

I have drawn a lot of animals that I haven’t seen or probably will never see. I derive inspiration from books or watching documentaries mostly.

Lately, you’ve also done a couple of comics on political satire? How have the responses been?

Certain issues had to be addressed. Many supported and liked the comics, while others started trolling. I would call it “Destructive Criticism”. After a point, you learn how not to pay heed to such trolls, you could say that it helps one in anger management.

Would you like to explore other verticals in comics apart from wildlife?

I have created comics on various themes in the past. But, I am not sure if I can do a good job at those. For now, I will continue making comics on wildlife.

What can one expect from the Art workshops you organize?  

They’re basic cartooning workshops in which  I guide participants through the process of creating comics, from drawing characters, capturing expressions to compiling all the elements to make complete sense which could help you create a comic strip.

Could you name some artists you look up to?

Well, this could take some time. But, here are some on top of my mind – Gary Larson, Bill Watterson, Patrick McDonnell. When it comes to Indian ArtistsR K  Laxman and Maya Kamath are some of my favorites. 

If you were to go back in time and change a decision what would it be?

Although I’ve no regrets as such, I think I should have explored the internet better. I see a lot of young artists creating content regularly and posting them. For someone like me who is excessively dependent on Print Media, the Internet is challenging. Sometimes, I feel like I have a generation gap with the new artists.

How do you think artists and freelancers have been affected by the pandemic? How do you think people can support them?

Artists and small businesses have definitely been affected big time. Many artists like me are dependent on Print Media, but due to the pandemic the print industry has taken a major hit and is running short of Ad money, hence there might be layoffs; NGOs that collaborate with artists are lacking funds at the moment; Book launches and releases have been postponed for months together.

I think this is the time when you can grow your business online. Learning how to monetize digital consumption of art is a very important skill to learn. Companies like Stoned Santa should play an important role in helping the artists to enable the same.

Answering the latter question, people can support fellow artists through Online patronages.

Lastly, what advice would you give to the budding artists?
“The best advice I can offer to budding cartoonists including myself, is to never let that child with a taste for nasty and offensive humour die within them”.

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Meet Saloni Patel, an illustrator, designer and a cartoonist.

Meet Saloni Patel, an illustrator, designer and a cartoonist.

Meet Saloni Patel, an Illustrator, Designer and a Cartoonist

Saloni Patel is an Illustrator, Designer and a Cartoonist who goes by the name of “Moody Moo” on Instagram and has close to 54k followers. Her Illustrations revolve around her daily life, her favorite TV show characters, and the adventures of her pet dog, making her designs quirky and exclusive. 

Saloni aims to spreads positivity through her colourful illustrations with soul-stirring quotes.

Although she completed her Bachelors in management studies, she went on to pursue her passion and completed her MA in graphic designing from the United Kingdom. Although it was not an easy choice, she says, “Nothing worth having ever comes easy.”

Here are some excerpts from when we caught up with her for a quick chat.

How do you perceive art?
Art can mean differently to everyone. I view art as a form of self expression.

Why the name “moodyymoo”?

‘Moody’ because I am a moody person and ‘Moo’ because I’ve always been a chubby child. Thus! It’s just a silly name that I coined.

Your Illustrations are quirky, yet send a very strong message. What inspires you to do these?

I draw inspiration from my personal experiences – something I witness or read, daily routine, mood swings, Simba – my pup or pretty much anything that I find to be intriguing.

To what extent does your pet have an impact on your art?

He keeps my vibrations high, which is very important for creative juices to flow and the things that he does definitely give me content for my work/comics.

How have criticisms helped you shape your career?

Mindless criticism has never helped, but constructive criticisism is always welcomed and has definitely helped me reflect on my drawing style, and improve.

How has your perception of seeing things changed after illustrating for such a long time?

Over the years, I have developed a keen eye for details. I no longer just view things as they are, but I’ve learned to observe any person or thing astutely.

How do you deal with a creative block?

Taking a break from work definitely helps when you’re having a creative block. I beat myself over it for a bit and then, I watch something inspiring; take a nap; have a snack and get back to what I do best – Creating Art. 

Many of your illustrations are based on TV shows. If you were to be a character of a TV show, which one and why would that be?

I really find Sheldon Cooper very fascinating and quirky. I adore his character and would love to be him.

Why? Because I want to know what it would like to live with an OCD and have a brilliant mind with eidetic memory. 

If you were to learn a new art-form, which one would it be?

I want to try learning pole dancing or aerial Yoga!

Lastly, what advice would you give for the upcoming artists?

Nothing worth having comes easy. You’ve got to be patient, diligent and open to learning new techniques. Stay up to date with latest trends, softwares & tools. Be nice to people – your fellow artists, your clients, your community, your followers and haters even (be nice by ignoring the haters).

Learn the tricks of the trade because social media is a great platform to promote your work. Have faith and don’t lose hope even if  initially you don’t get projects. With passion and determination, you’ll get there, slowly but surely .

Most importantly: Create, create and create – every single day. That’s the only way you’ll get there!

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Interview of Harisha | Portrait Artist

Interview of Harisha | Portrait Artist

Interview of Harisha Jangid

Harisha Jangid is a pencil portrait artist who creates marvellous life-like portrait sketches.

She captures not only the features of her subject accurately but also the character.  She draws people and pets. Working with color and carbon pencils, her artwork is refined and charming.

She is a self-taught artist who believes in judging the work by its quality & details rather than its quantity.

Now let’s take a look at Harisha’s journey in the field of art.

Art can be perceived differently by different people. How do you perceive art?

I believe art is what mirrors our deepest feelings onto a canvas. I mostly focus on making people happy with my work by making their imaginations and dreams come true (Like putting two different images together & making it look real).

Your sketches are so life-like. What inspires you to do these?

When I was new to social media, the number of increasing followers inspired me. As time passed, I started to focus more on the quality rather than the quantity. 

When people say, “your work brought a smile on my face” or “your work inspired me to do something like this”, I get inspired. I believe every artist reaches a point where the ‘likes’ & ‘followers’ don’t matter. Most importantly, it is the process of creating art itself, that inspires me!

Can you run us through your thought process while brainstorming for artistic inspirations?

Most of them are commissioned projects and all the celebrity portraits are random requests of their fans or a tribute to the artist who inspires me. I add some elements as per the customization requirement or theme, if any.

How have criticisms helped you shape your career? 

Fortunately or Unfortunately, I have never been ‘criticized’. I ask some of my friends to note down all the faults honestly and let me know where I can improve.

On the other hand, I was not appreciated either until 5 years ago when I found this beautiful soul on Twitter, Priya Kumar, a Motivational Speaker, and Author. I drew her and she loved it, that was the first time my work was appreciated. 

Since then I love appreciating people for their good work and everyone should. The words ‘great job!’ might change someone’s life, Right? 

 How differently do you perceive things after sketching?

Drawing has made me more patient. Everything around me seems so beautiful and I have started accepting everyone around me as they are. I am always looking around to get an inspiration for my artwork.

What are you thoughts on creative block?

Sometimes a block occurs because you have many ideas on your mind; commitments to fulfill and the volume of orders. You feel paralyzed by the options and obligations or simply knackered from working too hard and too long on something.

If you could go back in the past and change a decision that you made, what would it be?

I feel my mistakes are a part of me growing up. But on a lighter note, I would wish to have not opted for science in my 11th grade, and focussed on art instead.

What role does music play in the illustrations you do? 

I guess everyone on this planet loves music. Music is like an energy drink. While drawing, I love playing calm music in the background as it also boosts my creativity.

What advice would you give for the upcoming artists?

Give your best, never stop trying and keep exploring different styles until you find your niche.

If you had to name one person to draw up all the inspiration from, who would that be?  

Naming one would be very unfair, I have been inspired by many. But, the two most important people are Priya Kumar and Sonu Nigam. They are my role models.

I didn’t even know what my goals & dreams were, until I met them. Priya ma’am ‘s dedication towards her work is truly inspiring. Sonu Ji on the other hand, has been performing on stage for 42 years! I have seen him practicing backstage before he goes and conquers the stage. 

Every word from them for me has inspired me to do more & better. I am ever grateful to them.

Shierley Lin and Heather Rooney are two of the most talented artists whom I admire.

What are your thoughts on Stoned Santa?

“You guys are awesome! I saw your amazingly designed website and concept of personalized gifts! Such a great effort to put a smile on someone’s face. Keep going. More power to you.”

Author: Harsh Verma

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Meet Anjali Mehta

Meet Anjali Mehta

Meet Anjali Mehta

Using illustrations as a mode of education and spreading ideas and issues ranging from animal endangerment, body positivity, women’s rights, feminism and breaking the stereotypical bars of society’s perception of men and women, Anjali Mehta creates energetic, bright, bold with confident mark-making art while most of them celebrate modern femininity in a way that has captured the attention of many.

Now let’s hear, what she has to say about her journey as an illustrator.

 

Art can be perceived differently by different people. How do you perceive art?

 As a necessity to survive and a catalyst for change. 

Your Illustrations are so adorable, yet send a very strong message. What inspires you to do these?

Yes, I was doing my MA this year and I used to attend lectures by different artists every week, which inspired me to question my practice and think about – “what my art is doing?” and “what I want my art to do?”. Once I gave that thought I realized I just don’t want to make pretty things I want to add meaning to it, so it can help empower someone or spread a message. Since then, I’m working around that.

Can you run us through your thought process while brainstorming for artistic inspirations?

Its a very long process for me, but now its a part of life rather than a brainstorming session. I usually take mental images of my musings and things I’m reading, sometimes I take notes on my phone of things I like to draw on. Then mostly on my own, my brain comes up with images and compositions of what I can do with the images and inspirations I’ve observed to create something new. The ideas come to me at random times, so it’s important to keep taking notes whenever you can. 

As an artist, what is the most asked question to you?

The most common ones are ”what is your inspiration?” Or “what is your art about?”.

How have criticisms helped you shape your career?

They are a very important part of your artistic practice. If something doesn’t force you to change your existing comfortable methods and try something new,(which can be scary) your practice and talents cannot go forward.

Could you tell us about your experience of working with H&M?

Oh, it was a very small gig, The person who I was in touch with, Sidharth, was a very cooperative and creatively open client. I did those drawings and he liked my work, we did a few changes according to the brand guidelines and it was done. The whole event was cool to witness because seeing your art on the H&M logo and all the other communications in-store was a good feeling!

How differently has your perception changed as an illustrator?

My observation skills have changed completely, also the way I look at things will be very different from someone who isn’t an artist. Others might feel like that’s just a bird sitting on a pole, but for us, it could be beautiful composition if observed artistically. To be honest everything around you can be made into art you just need to see it.

If you were to learn an alternate art form which one would that be?

Probably, learn to play musical instruments, preferably a violin. 

Are you ever faced with a creative block? If yes, how do you get over it?

Yes, the only way I think for me is to keep creating, don’t stop, if its not the best work you are doing, it still is leading you to your best work.

If you could go back in the past and change a decision that you made, what would it be?

That’s difficult to answer, I don’t regret doing something so strongly. On a lighter note I would have bought a bigger Ipad, the one I have is good but I realized later that the bigger one would have been better for my artwork.

What advice would you give for the upcoming artists?

That’s tough, but I’ll just say believe in your art and keep making it. It will help you in many ways. Also, don’t run after being famous on social media, those things don’t matter. 

How important is traveling for an artist? Do you seek inspiration from every place you visit?

For me, that is the most essential. Travel can teach you things which no book can. And once you see the colors, flowers, paints from a different place and a different artist, it has the power to inspire you to create something beautiful like you haven’t done or seen before.

If you were to be a character of a TV show, which one and why would that be?

I relate to half of the characters I see on TV, it’s difficult to choose one. Maybe buttercup from Powerpuff girls, cause of her attitude towards things, it’s very me or Gina from Brooklyn Nine Nine, simply because I would love to be her, haha. 

 

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Meet Jasjyot Singh Hans

Meet Jasjyot Singh Hans

Meet Jasjyot Singh Hans

What do you call an artist who catches your attention by his amazing illustrations, and then makes you contemplate through the unconventional drawings and at the same time makes your jaw drop with the striking illustrations for the fashion industry? 

Well, we know him by the name Jasjyot Singh Hans. His art has made it into journals, newspapers, clothing, walls, and hearts of the people. Here are a few insights from the conversation we had with him.

Art can be perceived differently by different people. How do you perceive art?

I think of art as an expression of one’s identity. What we draw or create is often a reflection of our own thoughts and beliefs.

Your Illustrations send a very strong message. What inspires you to do these?

I believe regardless of the final outcome, my artwork usually, revolve around themes that are quite personal to me. My work mostly expresses nostalgia and expands on ideas of body image, beauty, and identity, all of them being quite close to my heart.

Your urban depictions are beautiful. What kind of ambience do you look for the most?

I like the idea of creating something large scale much more than the work that can be seen in my sketchbook or website. There’s something really powerful to witness my work at that scale and see it spreading the message of strength and togetherness.

There are such times too when it’s just about creating something that feels playful, something that could put a smile on people’s faces. But whatever it may be, the idea usually comes together keeping the location and the canvas (wall) size in mind. 

Have you ever collaborated with an artist or a brand? If yes, How was the experience?

Yes, because as illustrators, collaboration is central to what we do. We often rely on a body of text/ context to create imagery around. The experience varies on how close the subject is to the illustrator per se, but personally, I find the process of working on varied themes in different styles very interesting and invigorating. 

How has your perception of seeing things changed after starting illustrating?

I feel like the perception of things/ subjects keeps evolving as you create more artwork. So many times I get work on subjects I know little to nothing about but through research, I’m able to expand my knowledge. This helps me in making my artwork more impactful and present it in the best possible way.

Could you tell us about your teaching experience in Baltimore?

I just finished teaching illustration for the first semester at Towson University, Baltimore. I never thought imparting what I know about the industry would bring me as much joy as it actually does. There are certain things that I don’t particularly feel comfortable with (like dealing with paperwork/ scheduling/ public speaking), and teaching has really helped me stay on top of these things.

I still have a long way to go on this journey as a teacher, but so far I’m enjoying mentoring the next generation of illustrators!

Have you ever faced a creative block? If yes, how do you get over it?

Creative blocks are part of the creative process and it’s best not to dismiss them. I usually listen to new music, read a book, sulk, watch a movie, take a nap, go out to a new neighbourhood, etc.

Most importantly, what helps me get over a creative block is drawing through it! It sounds silly, but you have to work your way out of it. It’s different for different people, but this usually works for me. 

If you could go back in the past and change a decision that you made, what would it be?

I strongly believe that my past has helped me in becoming what I am today. So I don’t think about it as a set of mistakes but something has contributed to my growth. Hence, I would not really change anything.

What advice would you give for the upcoming artists? 

Just one thing – PUT IN THE DAMN HOURS 🙂

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