From a young age, I was constantly questioning the essence of life. “Why do people live? What is the meaning of existence?” These questions were not negative reflections but a natural curiosity about life’s journey from birth to death, happiness, and sorrow. I began my exploration through art, using painting as a way to record and reflect on the human experience. For me, oil paint became the ideal medium because of its flexibility, allowing me to shape and compose my work much like life itself—piece by piece, through shapes and lines.
My wide range of interests greatly influences my art. Whether it’s travelling, engaging in sports, or experiencing the bittersweet emotions of romance, I aim to capture the emotions behind these activities. While everyone’s travels or love stories may differ, certain feelings are universal—the excitement of embarking on a journey or the shared joy of a new relationship. Through my paintings, I strive to evoke these shared emotions, creating a connection between my art and the viewer. Constantly trying new things keeps me inspired, allowing my work to remain fresh and vibrant.
I don’t necessarily view myself as an “artist.” Instead, I see myself as an experiencer of life, using painting as a tool to document my journey. The term “artist” may be the standard label, but for me, painting is a form of expression and exploration, rather than a title or identity.
One of my most personal projects is the series “When I Was Six,” created when I first arrived in London in 2022, just after the pandemic. The world was recovering, but I had recently lost my grandmother, who raised me while my parents were busy with work. My grandmother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s when I was 18, and even as her memory faded, she always remembered my name and proudly shared stories about me. After her passing, those stories resurfaced in my mind during the dark, lonely London winters, becoming clearer than ever. I became afraid that I would lose these precious memories, so I decided to paint them. Each piece in the series holds an important story from my childhood, one that my grandmother often recounted. This series is my way of preserving her memory and our shared experiences.
Another key concept in my work is Neti Neti, a Sanskrit phrase meaning “not this, not this” or “neither this, nor that.” It’s a method of self-inquiry that encourages the stripping away of layers of identity to uncover the true self. As I continue to search for the meaning of my existence, I follow my consciousness, creating images that reflect my introspection. For me, Neti Neti isn’t just a philosophical idea—it’s a tool that helps me transcend appearances and connect with deeper truths.
In terms of artistic influence, my journey started with Picasso. My first oil painting, with its vibrant colours and exaggerated composition, reminded my high school teacher of Picasso’s style. While I didn’t intentionally mimic him, I was drawn to his bold use of colour and form. However, the pandemic marked a turning point in my style. With more time to reflect and slow down, I began focusing less on what I wanted to paint and more on how I felt. This shift allowed my style to evolve, becoming more refined and introspective. These days, I find inspiration not in other artists but in the small, everyday moments of life—the haircut of a neighbour’s dog or the bright orange tie of the security guard downstairs.
Looking ahead, my plans for 2024 involve continuing my work on the When I Was Six series. I have many sketches ready but need time to complete the final pieces. In 2025, I’m planning a new adventure, travelling to different countries to find fresh inspiration. After nearly three years in London, I feel ready to embark on a new journey, eager to see how the world will influence my art moving forward.
