The sacred temple complex of Palitana Temples holds immense spiritual significance for the Jain community. Located on Shatrunjaya Hill in Gujarat, it is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in Jainism. Hundreds of temples rise together like a sacred city in marble, creating an awe-inspiring landscape that feels almost otherworldly.

For many Jain households, having an image or painting of Palitana in their home is believed to bring positivity, devotion, and a spiritual connection to the sacred site.

Recently, I had the opportunity to create a large commissioned painting of Palitana — a project that was both deeply exciting and unexpectedly challenging.

Returning to a Painting After Three Years

Interestingly, this was not the first time I had painted Palitana. This commission was actually a recreation of a previous painting I had created about three years ago.

Whenever an artist recreates their own work, it brings a very unique kind of pressure.

On one hand, there is the expectation to match the beauty of the earlier piece. On the other hand, there is a strong inner push to create something even better — something that reflects the growth that has happened over the years.

The earlier painting was beautiful in its own way, but in the years since then my artistic skills and understanding of composition have evolved. I knew this new version had to carry that evolution.

Designing the Journey of the Eye

One of the biggest differences in this painting was my focus on composition and visual movement.

Instead of simply depicting the temples, I wanted the viewer to experience the landscape.

The stairs winding through the greenery were intentionally designed to guide the viewer’s eye into the painting. As the gaze follows the staircase, it travels through the layers of temples, architecture, and landscape.

The goal was to create a sense that the viewer is walking through the sacred complex, slowly discovering each structure.

When someone pauses in front of this painting, I hope they don’t just see it — I hope they travel through it.

Colour, Atmosphere, and Mood

Another major decision was the atmosphere of the painting.

I chose to depict the temples during a serene sunset, where warm golden light washes over the architecture. The temples glow in hues of burnt sienna, warm oranges and golden yellows

These colours create a sacred warmth that enhances the spiritual feeling of the scene.

To balance the warmth of the temples, I introduced lush green foliage and dense bushes, giving the landscape a subtle forest-like depth. The greenery frames the temples and helps them emerge dramatically from the hillside.

The Challenge of Scale and Detail

This painting was created on a 3 ft by 4 ft canvas, making it one of the largest canvases I have worked on so far.

Ironically, while the canvas was the largest I’ve painted on, I used some of the smallest brushes I own.

The temples of Palitana are known for their intricate architecture, and capturing that required extremely fine detailing. Many of the structures — the stairways, domes, and temple carvings — were painted with tiny, careful strokes.

There were days when I would simply sit in front of the canvas and stare at it, wondering what the next step should be. Large paintings often demand patience, observation, and quiet moments of decision-making.

Studying the Real Palitana

To design the composition, I studied several reference photographs of the temple complex from different angles. I examined at least five to six perspectives in order to understand the spatial relationship between the temples.

However, the painting is not meant to be a strict architectural replication.

For example, I introduced elements such as the open sky blending with water in the distance. While the real landscape is different, I made these choices intentionally to create a more harmonious and aesthetically pleasing composition.

Art often allows us to balance reality with imagination.

From Trial and Error to Intentional Process

When I think back to the first time I painted Palitana, I clearly remember how uncertain and experimental the process felt.

That earlier painting involved a lot of trial and error. I would paint something, step back, realize it wasn’t working, and then paint over it again. Many areas were redone multiple times as I tried to figure out what worked best.

In many ways, I was thinking directly on the canvas.

This time, the process felt very different.

Over the past few years, after consistent practice and training, I have developed a clearer structure for building a painting. Before even touching the canvas, I now approach the work with a planned sequence.

First comes the design and composition, followed by the initial sketch.
After that, I carefully mark the shadows to establish depth and structure.
Then I block the midtones and highlights, creating the overall form of the painting.
Only once that structure is complete do I begin adding the fine details.

Because of this approach, there were far fewer mistakes and almost no need to repaint large areas.

That doesn’t mean the process was easier — it simply meant the thinking happened earlier.

In the previous painting, I remember thinking while painting.
In this one, I often found myself pausing and thinking before placing the brush on the canvas.

That subtle difference reflects how much my artistic process has evolved.

A Sacred Presence in the Home

For many followers of Jainism, Palitana represents devotion, discipline, and the pursuit of spiritual purity.

Because of this, many Jain homes keep an image or painting of Palitana as a symbol of faith and positivity.

Knowing that this painting will live in someone’s home — not only as a work of art but also as something spiritually meaningful — made this commission especially special to create.

A Journey in Paint

Looking back, this painting became more than just a commission.

It was a reflection of my growth as an artist — of patience, observation, and the evolution of my creative process.

From designing the composition to painting the tiniest architectural details, every step reminded me that painting is not just about the final image. It is about the journey of creating it.

And if someone standing in front of this painting pauses for a moment and feels like they are walking through the temples of Palitana Temples, then I know the painting has truly done its job.

Creating meaningful artworks like this is one of the reasons I love working on commissioned pieces. When a painting represents a place that holds spiritual or personal significance, it becomes much more than just an artwork — it becomes something people live with and connect to every day.

If you would like to commission a painting of a sacred place, temple, or landscape that is meaningful to you, feel free to reach out through my website. I would love to create something special for your space.

Commission Art

Happy Creating

Most of my blog posts usually have a deep realisation or a conclusion. Sometimes I share a beautiful artwork that came after some struggle. But today, I don’t really have a result. I only have a process to show.

Lately, I’ve been attending a creative workshop with Rishabh. Here, we meet thrice a week and do our own creative thing. It is to build discipline. Most people there are writers. We’ve had some conversations about blogging. I’ve been learning from them and trying out this type of post. To be honest, I already feel a little uncomfortable. But they keep saying how writing freely is such a beautiful thing to read. And today, I do have something to say. So let’s go.

I live to see

I’ve been really excited to go plein air painting, which is basically painting outdoors. I want to practice more live sketches. In a way, it makes me feel so joyful. I experience the visual world deeply. I love to see things.

Like, I really love to see. Be it a flower, or a building with good architecture, or trees. When I’m walking or sitting in a car, I’m always looking outside and observing. The world excites me. Visual stimulation excites me. I don’t know how to fully describe it, but I kind of live to see. I like to experience colours. I love nature, and it inspires most of my artwork.

So painting from life shouldn’t be so bad. I should be doing this more. If nature inspires me so much, then painting outdoors should come naturally, right? But then why do I often sit on my phone to look for inspiration, when it’s all around me?

Not just nature. Even buildings, architecture, or a single stone can excite me. It can be something very ordinary, like clothes drying on a string. I’ve always focused on finding beauty in the ordinary.

Painting outside

Since last Saturday, I’ve been going out to paint. Yesterday was my second Saturday. The first time, I saw this temple and decided I wanted to come back and paint it.

I go to my husband’s office park, which is only available on Saturdays. It’s a beautiful private space. Tremendous and lovely. It’s peaceful. I don’t get disturbed much, though there are occasional people who click photos while I paint. I wish they would ask. I’m usually too deep in the process to address it, but it does bother me. I would rather interact with people who are genuinely curious. Sometimes kids come and watch me paint. Somewhere I hope it inspires them.

Anyway, this Saturday I woke up at 7, excited. But I had a psychology tuition class, so I had to wait till 12:30. I waited. I made lunch. I watched James Gurney videos on how he paints white houses. I felt inspired.

Then I went to see the temple. It’s this marvellous, white structure. Full of delicate marble carvings. I don’t even have the vocabulary to describe how beautiful it was. But it made me feel something in my body.

Finding a spot

I walked around the temple, looking at it from all four sides, trying to find the perfect spot. But the weather wasn’t helping. It kept raining again and again. Either it was too rainy or too sunny. The wind was strong. Last Saturday, my easel had even flown away.

Eventually, I went inside and found a quiet corner. You know how you can walk around in temples? I found a spot along that path. I thought maybe fewer people would disturb me here. I sat down and started drawing.

And honestly, I had that heart-eyes emoji feeling. I was in awe. The white carvings, the light, the energy of the space. It was clean. Calm. Peaceful. There was live music too. Harmonium. Singing. It was beautiful.

The struggle

But the painting didn’t come together. I tried. I did so many sketches. So many drafts. But I wasn’t happy with them.

I was struggling technically. I kept getting lost in the details, even though I knew I had to simplify. I just couldn’t zoom out. I don’t know why it was so hard yesterday. I kept trying and sketching. I was frustrated.

Let me tell you, making art is not always romantic. It’s not always roses. It comes with a lot of frustration. And not the bad kind. The good kind. The kind where you know what you want, but you can’t get it on paper.

I was working on an A4 sheet, which is much smaller than what I usually use. I often work on A3 or bigger. I was supposed to draw smaller, but I kept drawing bigger. The arch was above my eye level and I wanted to show that, but I didn’t know how.

Still, I didn’t give up. For three hours I was sitting there, drawing. I took a break in between. My eyes and head needed it. But I kept going.

Eventually, I started painting. It wasn’t great. I struggled. At some point, I gave up. I thought maybe I’ll just go home. It’s not going to happen today.

But still…

Despite the struggle, I wasn’t heartbroken. In fact, I want to go back. Maybe next Saturday, or the one after. I want to try again. I want to sit there and just experience what the temple is trying to tell me. It feels like it has something to say.

When I came back and looked at the artwork next to the photo, it wasn’t as bad as I thought. I did get the atmosphere, a little bit. Maybe next time, I’ll choose a simpler subject.

But either way, I’ll go back. I still want to see.

Learn to Draw With Me

On a different note, I’m staring to teach drawing.

Before I got married and moved, I held a few small drawing classes. It was something I wanted to try just to see if I’d enjoy teaching art. And honestly? I loved it.
It was joyful.

Life shifted, and I paused for a while. But now, as I slowly settle into a new rhythm, I feel ready to begin again.

So I’m starting something simple.

Online Drawing Class

It is for anyone who wants to try, return, or reconnect with their creative side.

I often see people feeling scared to draw. Maybe it is the fear of the blank page or the pressure to be perfect, or the thought that they’re “not good enough.” But drawing doesn’t have to be perfect. It can be playful. Expressive. Healing.

As someone who not only makes art, but breathes it, I want to share that joy.
To help others feel safe and seen in their creative process. I will be teaching some fundamentals of drawing, how to see shapes, how to differentiate light and dark. It’s like a blend of my psychologist-free-expressive identity and a fine-artist-structured approach.

If this speaks to something in you, you’re warmly welcome. Come draw with me. Click the link below to register.

Learn to Draw

Happy Creating.

In my last blog post, I shared a bit about my life; the wedding, the new studio, this whole new chapter I’ve stepped into. But there’s still so much I didn’t get to say.

There’s been this massive pile of artwork I’ve wanted to share, but I didn’t know how to bring it all together. It felt messy in my head. So I thought, maybe I’ll start by talking about how I’ve been trying to organise everything.

Organising My Art Practice

I’ve been using Notion app to record my art practice. I was so inspired by The Calm Creative’s YouTube video where she laid out her entire creative schedule on Notion and something about that really clicked for me. So I copied her. In general, she’s a very calm and soothing person to listen to.

Every day, I open a calendar view and log whatever I created that day. Not just what I did, but also what went right, what went wrong, where I struggled, where I surprised myself. It’s like journaling about my art. Because sometimes, it’s hard to see that you’re making progress unless you write it down. And since I identify as a self-taught artist, I have to be my own teacher. That means, I not only have to learn via resources but also keep providing feedback to myself. Just like all colleges do.

Meeting the One Who Whispers, “It’s Not Enough Yet”

But I’ll be honest. For seven days, I didn’t record a single thing. No updates. However, I was practicing. But I’m still new to this record keeping and documenting.

Because I wasn’t writing what I was doing, I thought I’m not doing at all. It’s easy to forget. And I started to feel this heavy, awful guilt. I kept telling myself I wasn’t being disciplined enough. That I was slacking. That maybe I didn’t want it badly enough.

This month, I’ve been really hard on myself. And not the motivational, go-getter kind of hard, the cruel kind. I cursed myself. I spiralled. I couldn’t keep up with everything I wanted to do, and the voice in my head turned mean.

One day, I just broke down. I sat with myself and cried.

I needed to understand where this cruelty was coming from, why I was pushing myself so hard, why I couldn’t give myself a moment of softness. I had such high standards of myself that it was impossible to please myself. I realised that there’s a part of me that’s absolutely terrified of making mistakes and feeling worthless. A part that believes if I’m not constantly improving, constantly producing, constantly perfect, then I don’t deserve to call myself an artist.

That part doesn’t want anyone to see my mistakes. It thinks mistakes will lead to rejection. It wants to protect me. And the only way it knows how is by beating me up from the inside.

It’s young. It doesn’t know any better. But it’s loud.

And yet, there’s also another part of me, the one you’ve probably seen in my past posts that celebrates mistakes. That shares messy work proudly. That believes in being human first.

So I turned to something that’s been part of my inner work for a while: Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. The core idea is that there are no bad parts. Every part of us, even the ones that seem harsh or overwhelming, are just trying to help in the only way they know how. These parts get stuck, and what they really need is to be heard.

IFS has taught me to act from the Self, the part of me that is calm, clear, and compassionate. So instead of pushing that harsh inner voice away, I sat with her. I let her speak. I let her cry too.

And something inside softened.

I still want to be better. I still want to improve. But I want to create from love, not fear. From joy, not guilt. And yes, I want to be disciplined, but in a way that’s sustainable and kind.

That’s where the portraits come in.

When My Skills Couldn’t Catch Up to My Ideas

A little while ago, I had this sudden creative urge. I wanted to paint a woman with an owl. I didn’t know why. I just felt it deeply. I started the painting with all this energy and excitement. It started as something beautiful and powerful

And then the next day, I ruined it. I kept working and working, and somewhere along the way, I lost what I had. The piece fell apart.

And that moment taught me something really important.

I realised how much I needed my skills to catch up with my ideas. I can’t express what I want to express unless I have the tools. I can’t make a face if I don’t know how. That painting needed more from me than I could give.

So I made a quiet promise to myself: for this month, I’ll focus on portraits, drawing and proportions.

Not just drawing for the sake of it, but training. Learning. Observing. Figuring out proportions. Understanding form. Not in a rigid, art-school way. But in a way that still feels like me.

Here’s one drawing piece that I worked on.

This is one of the drawings I’m genuinely proud of. Not because it’s perfect, but because it taught me something I usually struggle with, patience.

I’ve always been a fast, intuitive artist. I like to draw fast, paint fast. Working in acrylics trained me to move quickly, to chase energy rather than precision. But over time, that speed started spilling into everything, even into slower mediums like pencil.

With this piece, I tried something different. Every mark was slow, disciplined, intentional, carefully rendered into the grain of the paper. What started off casually on a local cartridge sheet ended up becoming something I spent a lot of time with and I loved almost every minute of it.

Somewhere in that process, I began to enjoy the slowness. I started noticing more. I saw the mistakes I was making, the things I had overlooked before. And I learned so much, like the way form wraps around planes, the softness of light, the way tone builds depth when you take your time.

It’s not perfect. But it feels honest. And I know the next one will carry all of this forward.

This blog post barely scratches the surface of everything I’ve been working on. So here’s a small glimpse, just a few pieces I’ve created recently that I feel connected to, proud of, or deeply challenged by.

Where I Am Now

I want to keep my uniqueness, my softness, my emotion in my work. But I also want to be good. I want to be skilled.

So that’s where I am right now. Logging portraits and live sketches in Notion. Writing down what worked, what didn’t. Letting myself notice when the eye is off, or the lip is too low, or the forehead’s too wide. Letting that be okay.

And the best part?

At least now, I know when I’ve made a mistake. That’s something. That’s progress.

Thanks for reading this far. Really.

There’s more I want to share, I’ll keep showing up.

One sketch, one day, one honest post at a time.

Happy Creating.

It’s been a long time since I wrote anything. Life swept me up in the best and most overwhelming ways.

Life Updates:

I got married.

I moved into a new home.

And now, for the first time, I have a dedicated space I can call my studio.

That sentence alone makes me emotional. It feels like I’m finally stepping into the version of myself I always imagined, the one who creates not just from the corners of rooms, but from a space built with intention.

I haven’t been sharing much, but a lot has been happening quietly behind the scenes.

Building in the Dark

The past six months were taken up by wedding prep, moving, adjusting to a new chapter in life. But before all that, I was silently building something. For myself. For my future.

I was focused on my art. Not publicly, not consistently, but deeply and seriously.

I went back to the fundamentals. I trained. I studied. I questioned everything. And honestly? I doubted myself a lot.

There were days when I looked at what I was making and felt embarrassed. I felt like an imposter.

Honestly, my work was improving. You can see below that my work has become so much better.

The Hurt of Feeling Like an Outsider

Over the past couple of years, I realised I needed an art community. So, I worked on interacting with as many artists as I could so that I feel like I belong. I met many artists, some through workshops, others in live art sessions. I’ve studied under incredible mentors and learned so much from YouTube masters like Stephen Bauman, Proko, etc.

But there’s a quiet hurt that grew in those spaces too.

A lot of the artists I met had formal training. They had gone to art school. They had degrees. And I didn’t.

I’m self-taught, or maybe more accurately, self-guided. And in some conversations, I could feel the unspoken judgment. Or sometimes, it wasn’t unspoken at all.

I remember one interaction that really cut deep. I was dismissed so casually, like I didn’t count, like I was just a “hobby artist.” It stung. Because art is not a hobby for me. It’s not something I pick up for fun on a lazy Sunday.

It’s who I am. It’s how I survive.

But in those moments, I started to believe maybe they were right. I started to question if I was a “real artist” at all.

The Shift

That pain, as hard as it was, became a turning point.

I told myself: I don’t want to feel like this anymore. Not because I need to prove anything to others, but because I owe it to myself to take my art seriously.

I realized I don’t need validation from a system I wasn’t even a part of.

I need to build my own way. I need to create the kind of art education I wish existed, one with structure, yes, but also freedom.

Space. Play. Emotion.

That’s what this new chapter is about.

Making My Own Way

I’m still figuring things out. My focus still wobbles. I dip my hands into so many creative things, from drawing to painting to junk journaling. And sometimes it makes me feel scattered.

But I’ve started to understand something really important:

I create because I love to

It fills me with life.

I’m learning to hold that truth gently, even on the hard days.

Thanks for being here as I find my way again.

Happy Creating

Growing up, I believed in Santa Claus and the wonder he brought into our lives. While I no longer wait for Santa, the spirit of Christmas – spreading joy and love – remains close to my heart. With these hampers, I’m stepping into Santa’s shoes to craft unique gifts that carry warmth, creativity, and a bit of surprise for everyone who receives them.

What Makes These Hampers Special?
Every piece in the hampers is handmade and carefully curated, from painted greeting cards to interactive journals and framed art. To make it even more magical, each hamper includes a surprise Secret Santa gift, customised based on the recipient’s personality and interests. This means no two hampers are the same—they’re tailored to the unique stories and preferences of the people you love.

Buy Now

Have a look at the videos.

Here’s how it works:

1. Choose your Christmas Crate from the options below.

2. Share a little about the recipient in the form provided on payment page.

3. I’ll personally craft a surprise gift to match their personality, hobbies, or interests as a Secret Santa!

Each Christmas crate includes:

• Set gifts, which are listed below.

• A customised Secret Santa gift which is made with thoughtful attention to detail, perfectly tailored to your description. Whether it’s a hobby-themed trinket or a personalized piece of art, this gift is sure to delight!

The Christmas Crates

1. Budget-Friendly Christmas Crate – ₹999

   Perfect for a sweet, budget-friendly token of joy

• Set of 2 painted bookmarks

• Set of 2 printed coasters

• 1 painted Christmas greeting card

• A handful of homemade chocolates

• A customised surprise gift

  

2. Artsy Christmas Crate - ₹2999

Perfect for an artsy gift with a touch of elegance.

• Set of 2 painted bookmarks

• Set of 2 printed coasters

• 1 painted Christmas greeting card

• Premium homemade chocolate bar

• Chronicle handmade book with junk journal style details. See video below

• Framed artwork

• Surprise Gift

3. Premium Artsy Christmas Crate – ₹4,999

Perfect for those who value handmade luxury and detailed craftsmanship.

• Set of 2 painted bookmarks

• Set of 2 printed coasters

• 1 painted Christmas greeting card

• A handful of homemade chocolates

• Premium homemade chocolate bar

• Chronicle handmade book with junk journal style details. See video above

• Framed artwork

• A junk journal with hand binding will complete embellishment. See video below.

• A hand-painted pouch

• Surprise Gift

*please note that the above images are for visual representation only. I’ll make such gifts after receiving an order and hence there will be minor differences.

Each crate is packed with love and comes with free shipping (only in India) to make gifting easy and delightful.

The Secret Santa Experience
What’s a Christmas hamper without a little mystery? As your Secret Santa, I’ll craft a surprise gift based on the details you share about the recipient. It could be something they’ve always wanted, something to reflect their hobbies, or simply a thoughtful keepsake to make them smile.

In a world full of mass-produced items, I believe that handmade gifts hold a charm that’s irreplaceable. They tell a story, evoke emotions, and carry the touch of the maker’s heart and soul. These hampers are my way of spreading that special feeling and reminding everyone of the true spirit of Christmas.

Ready to Gift Joy?
If you’re looking to make this Christmas unforgettable for your loved ones, click here to order your hamper now. Let’s celebrate the season with love, creativity, and a touch of holiday magic.

Buy Now

Happy Creating.

I've tried to rationalize and intellectualize my feelings about this quote, but the truth is, it unsettles me because it reflects my own reality. My therapist encourages me to sit with my feelings, yet I often feel guilty for not doing so. Instead, I escape into my art, running away when it all becomes too much, losing myself in the depths of my brushstrokes.

Lately, anxiety has been a constant companion. The pressures of making a living from my art, the weight of responsibilities, and the whirlwind of life have all been overwhelming. I don't even feel like talking to anyone about it. Usually, I sit with my emotions and try to process them, but recently, it's been more than I can handle.

So, I paint. I paint to stop thinking. When I'm immersed in my art, I'm free from reality. In my artistic world, I find happiness and relief. I'm grateful that I'm not experiencing an art block right now, especially when I need my art the most. Art has saved me before from the depths of my own emotions, and the current overwhelm makes me crave the escape my creative world offers—a world filled with flowers, animals, butterflies, and fairies, where nothing bad ever happens and happily ever afters are real.

Recently, I took a whimsical journey with my paintbrush, creating pieces that feel incredibly special to me – a magical forest that radiates joy and wonder. As I dipped my brush into newly bought paints and began to apply them to the paper, I felt like a child. It was like tapping into the boundless energy and curiosity of my younger self, where every stroke felt like magic.

The scenes I painted are more than just a collection of colors and shapes; they’re my happy places brought to life. The lush greens and playful splashes of pinks, yellows, reds, purples, and whites come together to create a vibrant oasis. Each flower, painted with a slightly abstract touch, carries its own story, inviting the viewer to imagine the wonders that lie within this enchanted forest.

There’s freedom in trying something new, in not knowing exactly how the colors will blend or what textures will emerge. This sense of exploration added excitement and spontaneity to the process, reminding me that art is not just about the final product but about the journey and discoveries made along the way.

In these pieces, I found my happy place. It’s a reminder that even in the midst of anxiety and overwhelm, there’s a sanctuary within my art where I can find peace and joy.

Happy Creating.

Today has been quite a day. Over the past couple of months, I’ve been incredibly busy, juggling learning, traveling, and a variety of experiences. There’s so much I want to share with you. I’ve been traveling back to back, attending workshops and weddings, which has been exhausting. I got so tired from traveling that I took a vacation—only to travel more, haha.

While painting in the mountains, a surprising thing happened. A monkey attacked me out of nowhere. It really scared me. I've spent a lot of time around animals, so I know they can be unpredictable. Usually, animals attack when they feel threatened or if someone bothers them. I was just painting, not bothering anyone. There were about 7-8 people watching me, too. But suddenly, the monkey came and attacked me. I was shocked and didn't know what to do. I couldn't defend myself because my hands were busy with the paintbrush and canvas. I felt helpless, surrounded by people, and being attacked. Eventually, I managed to gather my senses and leave the area, leaving my painting behind. Anyway, I’m on my rabies vaccine just to be safe.

I’m sharing this incident on my art blog because I want to remind you to be safe when painting outdoors. This experience has made me scared to paint in nature, and I hope to overcome that fear soon.

Despite everything, I’ve been teaching kids and spreading my love of art. I’ll share more about that later. But today, I woke up feeling a bit off. I’ve been doing commissions and studying art so much that it’s been a while since I’ve created art just for myself. Painting has always been my passion, but lately, I’ve been too consumed with responsibilities. As I scrolled through my gallery, I realized I haven’t painted for my own enjoyment in a long time. This morning, I felt a pang of guilt. What kind of artist am I if I don’t create original pieces or simply pieces that I enjoy making?

I’ve been asking myself, where is Therapy with Colours? In my quest to acquire more knowledge about art, why am I letting go of the essence of what Therapy with Colours truly is?

Let me present these beautiful pieces to you. They come from my heart without any bounds, and I’m sharing them here proudly because I can call this MY art—art that tells stories and evokes feelings.

First, let me show you “Studio View,” which I painted this morning. It’s abstract, representing what I see in my workspace. This space is my ecosystem, built over the years. I have potted plants and visitors like sparrows. Once, a red-throated bird visited me, and I was almost in tears seeing something other than sparrows, pigeons, or crows on my Mumbai 2nd-floor balcony. But hey, I love my sparrows. This art was a warm-up to get my creative juices flowing.

The second artwork is “Panchgani Blooms.” I recently visited Panchgani, where I was attacked, but overall, it was a beautiful trip. It’s very hot here, but in Panchgani, it was pleasant and rainy. I was impressed with all the blooming flowers, including hydrangeas, lotuses, and the famous bougainvilleas. I felt like a child lost in wonder.

These are the other two pieces I love. Through my journey, I’ve learned that abstract art is more feeling-oriented but requires experimentation and planning. In the left one, I did too much, making it look chaotic. But in the right one, I retried and kept space, controlling my urge to finish the paint on my palette by adding more marks because I was enjoying it so much.

In conclusion, these experiences have been a rollercoaster of emotions, from the unexpected monkey attack to rediscovering my love for painting. They’ve taught me a lot about balancing my responsibilities with my passion. I hope these pieces resonate with you and inspire you to find your own balance. Thank you for joining me on this journey, and I look forward to sharing more of my art and experiences with you soon.

By the way, I made a small online store where you can purchase from The Botanical Bliss series (only for Indian customers).

Shop

I found the courage to write and express myself after reading my friend Rishabh’s newsletters and also attending his wonderful writing workshop. Do read his blog.

Happy Creating

Hey everyone!

Today, I'm thrilled to share with you a project that's been close to my heart—my new handcrafted postcard collection—Botanical Bliss. These postcards aren't just about sending messages; they're about sharing a piece of art, a moment of creativity, and a touch of personal connection.

The Story Behind the Collection

For me, crafting these postcards has been a journey of discovery and expression. Each one is a reflection of countless moments spent in quiet contemplation, letting my thoughts flow onto paper through delicate strokes of ink. Using a dip nib, I've explored the beauty of ink and paper, creating patterns that are as unique as they are mesmerising.

What Makes Them Special

What I love most about these postcards is their simplicity and elegance. Inspired by the intricate patterns found in nature, each design is a celebration of the beauty that surrounds us. They're not just postcards; they're little pieces of art that invite you to pause, reflect, and find joy in the small things.

Limited Edition Originals

While I could easily mass-produce these postcards, I've chosen to keep them as limited edition originals. Why? Because I believe that true art should be cherished and valued for its uniqueness. Each postcard in this collection is a testament to the time, care, and love that went into its creation.

What's Included

In each set, you'll find three handcrafted postcards, lovingly packaged and ready to be shared with someone special. Here's the exciting part – you have the freedom to choose any three designs that speak to you. Whether you choose to send them to a friend, display them on your desk, or frame them on your wall, these postcards are sure to bring a smile to your face.

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And Lastly

As I wrap up this journey of creativity and expression, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share my art with you. Whether you're a fellow artist, a nature lover, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of handmade creations, I hope that these postcards inspire you to embrace your own creativity and find joy in the little things.

Happy Creating

This year has been a tough journey for me, and just as it comes to an end, something exciting has emerged. It feels like the burst of hope I needed to continue my art journey—undoubtedly a milestone.

Currently, some of my artwork is on display at Cafe Condi in Bandra, Mumbai. Stepping from the online world to the walls of a physical space, no matter how small, holds profound meaning for me. The people at the cafe are incredibly warm and welcoming, embodying a beautiful idea of supporting local artists. Plus, the cozy vibe and great coffee make it the perfect spot.

I'd be thrilled if you could drop by, sip on some coffee, and explore my art. I've got small paintings and handmade Christmas cards at affordable prices. Your support means the world to me. Thank you for being a part of this journey!

Cafe Condi: Location pin

14-A, Waroda Rd, Ranwar, Bandra West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400050

Happy Creating.

Today, I proudly present my latest piece—Golden Glow of Solitude, a Buddha painting that holds a special place in my heart. It's a tribute to the time I spent living in the mountains. About a year ago, I moved to a beautiful place with monasteries, meditation centers, and mountains. I loved my life there, which lay in simple moments like watching monks walk in the market and chatting with devotees who practiced Vipassana.

My plan was to set up an art studio there, as living there inspired me every day. I wanted to wake up to this peaceful place and practice my art in solitude. However, my plan did not work out, and it shattered me. For months, I was not able to create. Of course, this made it even more difficult to survive as a full-time artist. But I do believe in the saying that everything happens for a reason. I had to take this journey to know.

And here I am, sitting at my desk in the city, really missing my time in nature. I crave for it to come back. This Buddha painting is a memory of that special place. It expresses peace and warmth. I created this painting with mixed media techniques. I patiently applied gold leaf to the background and took months to get the painting just right.

I hope you all also find peace and warmth in this creation just like I do :)

Happy Creating.

Voiceover in the video:

Sometimes, they say you should be thankful for what you've got. It's everywhere, this advice. People tell you, "Hey, be grateful!" They even teach it in psychology - keep a gratitude journal, write down the good stuff.

Sounds great, right? But here's the twist. Sometimes, this whole gratitude thing can turn into something toxic. It starts to feel like you're not allowed to be sad or angry or hurt anymore. Like you have to pretend everything is sunshine and rainbows.

But what if I want to look at the dark side too? Not because I'm helpless, but because I want to sit with it. I want to face all the shadows inside me, all the pain I've been through. I want to say, "Hey, I see you."

And some days I laugh my heart out genuinely feeling joy. But you know what? One day, all those memories come rushing back, and it's like a storm inside my head.

People say that we shouldn’t dwell into the past and ruminate. But, sometimes , I wonder if I've just gotten used to the pain. Maybe, without it, I'd feel empty. So, I sit with my pain because it makes me feel alive. It’s not about loving the darkness, it’s more about acknowledging it. And yes, gratitude is cool, but so is accepting the pain as a part of who I am.

Happy Creating.

I'm really excited to share a painting from my Whispering Echoes series called "Unfolding." It's a painting that means a lot to me because it's about something I've struggled with for a long time: taking up space.

Taking up space isn't just about physical room; it's also about making your presence felt emotionally and in relationships. Personally, I've often felt the need to make myself smaller, like I'm protecting myself inside an invisible shell. This shows up in everyday life, like when I'm on a crowded local train and try to be as compact as possible or when I walk along the edge of the footpath instead of using the whole path.

It even affects how I interact with people – I'm a great listener, but I struggle to express myself and my own needs.In relationships, I've become known as the person who's always there to listen. People appreciate that, but it's tough when it's my turn to speak up. I've wondered who I really am if I'm just reflection of others and being what they want me to be.

My journey to take up space, especially emotionally and in relationships, is just beginning. I'm starting with the basics, like standing tall and taking confident steps, and maybe even trying to express myself through dancing.

Creating "Unfolding" was challenging because I kept wanting to make the figure in the painting small, almost fading into the background. But you'll see that the figure is in a fetal position that's not entirely closed. That represents my ongoing struggle to assert myself, one small step at a time.

I want to stress that taking these baby steps is crucial. Just because I'm aware of my struggle doesn't mean I'll magically transform overnight. Healing is a slow process, and it doesn't follow a straight line. Some days, I'll retreat into my shell, and that's okay.

In a nutshell, "Unfolding" reminds me of my journey to claim my space, whether it's physical, emotional, or in relationships. It's a reminder that healing takes time, with both progress and moments of reflection along the way. I'm ready to embrace this journey, knowing that every little step matters, no matter how small.

Happy Creating.

Welcome to another chapter of Whispering Echoes series. “Veiled Sorrows” is a portrayal of emotions that go unnoticed, buried beneath patriarchy.

Happy Creating.

I am excited to share with you the first painting from my latest series, Whispering Echoes. I invite you on a journey of artistic exploration as we delve into the depths of my work. Rather than relying on words, I believe that art has the power to communicate on its own. Sometimes the most profound messages are conveyed through the silent whispers of paint on canvas.

“Preserving Power” celebrates female sexuality with subtle tones of self-protection.

Happy Creating.

Hey there!

It’s been a while since my last blog post, and I have to admit, I’ve been feeling the pressure. The guilt of not being able to consistently share my work has been nagging at me. But you know what? It’s time to let go of that guilt and focus on what really matters: creating and enjoying art!

Over the past two months, I’ve been on an art spree, diving into many creative endeavours. I’ve been attending live model nude sessions and venturing out for plein air painting sessions, all in the pursuit of inspiration and growth. And let me tell you, it’s been quite an adventure!

One recent highlight that I absolutely have to share with you is a workshop I attended on figurative painting. The workshop was led by the incredibly talented artist Mr. Akshay Pai and hosted by the Art Society of India. I felt very lucky for having an opportunity to learn from an artist whose work I’ve admired.

The three-day workshop was an in-depth exploration of the world of figurative painting. I learned so much during those days, and the feedback I received from Mr. Pai and my fellow participants was truly invaluable. It’s amazing how much progress we can make when we have a supportive community to learn and grow with.

Now, let’s talk about a breakthrough moment for me—working with oils. I have to admit, oils and I haven’t always gotten along. There have been countless messy mishaps in the past. But this time, something clicked. Oils turned out to be a beautiful medium to work with. The way the colours blend and merge on the surface is simply mesmerising. Plus, they give me the luxury of not having to rush as they dry more slowly compared to acrylics.

Without further ado, I proudly present some of my recent works.

I hope that you have derived as much pleasure from viewing these artworks as I did from creating them.

Happy Creating

I recently had the chance to attend a live nude art session hosted by the Art Society of India, and it was a unique experience to say the least. While I'm no stranger to painting landscapes on location, this was my first time painting a live model. And let me tell you, it was both challenging and thrilling at the same time.

Being surrounded by other artists who shared my enthusiasm for this kind of work made the experience even better. I must admit that painting a living, breathing human being was much different from painting still objects, and it definitely took some time for me to adjust. But once I got the hang of it, it was a lot of fun.

I wanted to share some of my drawings with all of you. Take a look:

I also have a group photo of us artists with the model:

I have been enjoying figure drawing and I plan on attending more sessions like this and sharing my journey with you all.

Happy creating.

Hello art lovers!

Today, I'm excited to share with you my passion for calligraphy and the lost art of handwritten letters. As a calligrapher, I've long appreciated the beauty and uniqueness of each handwritten stroke and curve. In this video, I showcase my love for all things handmade and raw by writing a personal letter to myself. In today's digital age, it's easy to forget the beauty and power of a handwritten letter, but I believe it's a tradition that's worth preserving. So, whether you're a fellow calligraphy enthusiast or simply appreciate the beauty of a handwritten note, I invite you to watch this video and join me in celebrating the magic of the written word.

As I sat down to write this letter to myself, I couldn't help but reflect on my life and journey. It's so important to take some time and ponder on the lessons we've learned and the beauty of how life unfolds itself. For me, the past year has been an incredible journey of solo traveling, filled with both good and bad memories. As I put pen to paper, I felt a sense of gratitude for all the experiences that have shaped me into who I am today. This letter is my way of acknowledging and celebrating that journey.

Here’s what I wrote in the letter:

My dearest self,

As I put pen to paper, my heart is filled with an indescribable joy and pride. The past few years have been a journey, filled with both triumphs and setbacks, but through it all, I have grown into the person I am today.

I have experienced the full range of human emotion, from the depths of pain to the heights of joy, and through it all, I have allowed life to take its course. I have dared to try new things, to take risks, and to live life to its fullest.

Yes, there were mistakes along the way, but I forgive myself for those missteps, to accept them as a part of my journey, and to embrace them as opportunities for growth and learning.

As I look to the future, I am excited to continue on this journey of self-discovery, to take risks, to embrace new experiences, and to live life with passion and purpose.

With Love

Kruti

I hope that this video and letter have inspired you to take some time for yourself and reflect on your own journey. Whether it's through calligraphy, handwritten letters, or simply taking a moment to breathe and appreciate the present moment, there are many ways to slow down and connect with ourselves.

Happy Creating

Last year, I was in search of a subject for my next painting, something that would evoke a sense of wonder and childlike joy. I drew inspiration from the works of artist Starla Michelle, who has a knack for capturing the childlike wonder in her paintings. It was then that I decided to paint a peacock in all its glory, with vibrant colours and thick textures that would truly capture the bird's natural beauty.

As I worked on the painting, I found myself drawn to the bold colours and playful brushstrokes of Starla Michelle's art. Her ability to capture the essence of nature and animals in a way that feels fresh and new was truly inspiring. And so, I drew from her influence and let my imagination run wild.

I decided to take a slightly different approach to the traditional peacock paintings, focusing less on the intricate details of the feathers and more on the vibrant colours and textures. I started by layering a textured white base and then painted over it with thick, colourful strokes, creating random designs and patterns that felt like they belonged in nature.

In the end, my peacock painting brought me a lot of joy and happiness, just as Starla Michelle's art does. I learned that drawing inspiration from other artists can help spark creativity and lead to truly unique works of art. And I hope that my peacock painting brings the same sense of wonder and joy to those who see it.

Happy Creating.

Today, I want to talk about my recent experience with art journaling and how it helped me overcome my creative block. As some of you might remember from my last post, I was struggling with creating art and had just picked up my paint brush after a long time. Well, I’m happy to report that I had another small victory today!

I was feeling particularly inspired and joyful, so I decided to capture a video of my art journaling process. I didn’t plan anything beforehand, I just grabbed my supplies, set up my camera, and started playing. And you know what? It was so much fun.

You can watch the video below to see the art process.

Instead of treating art as work, I treated it as play. I let go of my expectations or pressure, and just focused on enjoying the process. The key to this experience was embracing imperfection. I didn’t worry about what my end result would be or whether it was “good enough”. I just focused on making marks that felt good in the moment and putting stickers that I liked. I was able to create so much without even thinking about it. It was like the art just flowed out of me. Not only was this a fun experience, but it also helped me relax and unwind.

I hope this post inspires you to let go of any creative blocks and expectations you might have, and just enjoy the process of creating. Art journaling is a great way to do this, so grab your supplies and start playing! Remember there’s no right or wrong way to do this. Just have fun and embrace imperfection.

Happy Creating.

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I wanted to share a little victory with you all today. I've been going through a bit of a rough patch lately, but I'm happy to say that I've finally picked up my paintbrush again after what feels like ages!

Being a self-taught artist can be tough, especially when you don't have an access to a supportive community around you. I've been feeling a bit isolated lately, and it's been hard to find my creative groove. But I'm not giving up! I know that eventually, I'll find my tribe and be able to connect with fellow artists who understand what I'm going through.

In the meantime, I'm celebrating the small wins. It doesn't matter what I create right now; the fact that I'm back in action is a victory in itself! Sometimes, we just need to be kind to ourselves and take things one step at a time.

So, to anyone else out there who might be struggling with their artistic journey, I want you to know that you're not alone. Keep pushing forward, and remember to celebrate every little victory along the way. We've got this!

Happy Creating.

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