Navita Kaushik, a distinguished artist from the Delhi-NCR region, has harboured an unwavering passion for the visual art since the tender age of ten. With a deft command of colour and texture, she transforms her innermost musings into compelling works of art, each piece a vivid reflection of her distinctive perspective on the world. Her oeuvre, spanning diverse series such as Divine, Animal, Human, and Rope Work, is a testament to her extraordinary versatility and boundless creativity. Through these varied themes, she not only captures the essence of different subjects but also infuses them with her signature flair for nuance and innovation.
In an exclusive tête-à-tête with The Interview World, Navita unravels the profound sources of inspiration that propel her endeavours in art. She eloquently expounds on her unique ability to amalgamate disparate ideas into cohesive visual expressions, while also illuminating the emotional resonance her works evoke in those who encounter them. It is, after all, this rare alchemy of technique and sentiment that ensures her paintings do not merely blend into the visual landscape but rather stand out with an unmistakable presence. Furthermore, she graciously imparts her wisdom to aspiring artists, urging them to embrace their individuality and cultivate a voice that is unapologetically their own. What follows are the key insights from this illuminating exchange.
Q: What inspired your journey into this field, and how do you seamlessly integrate diverse ideas into your art?
A: I immerse myself in my canvases, bringing them to life with vibrant, dynamic colours. Every piece I create bursts with energy and vivid hues, drawing the viewer into its world. My process is entirely unplanned, guided by intuition rather than strict design. Each brushstroke feels spontaneous, yet intentional. For instance, the free birds I often paint, their wings soaring high, symbolize boundless freedom. These canvases reflect the joy and liberation I feel while creating them, a sentiment that resonates in the harmonious balance of colours.
Every hue tells a story, seamlessly transitioning between light and shadow. When the palette leans toward darkness, I always introduce a beacon of light, and when it shines brightly, a hint of shadow grounds the composition. This interplay mirrors life’s duality, reminding us that even in the darkest moments, light is always within reach. Behind every painting lies a deeper narrative.
Take my rope art as an example—a story of resilience. It portrays a girl burdened by life’s hurdles, represented by waves crashing below her. Yet, she faces the world boldly, exuding strength and grace. Through this piece, I aim to convey that challenges may test us, but perseverance leads to triumph.
Dark and light shades dance across my canvases, embodying hope amidst adversity. Where there is darkness, there will always be light. Life, like my art, moves in cycles—a constant rhythm of change. Nothing remains permanent, but in time, the spark of life returns, bringing renewal and success. If we continue forward, unwavering in our resolve, success is not just a possibility—it is inevitable.
Q: What message do you aim to convey through your art, and how do you ensure it resonates with viewers?
A: My ideas speak to the new generation, rooted deeply in the exploration of textures. Textures dominate my work, shaping the essence of my paintings. I’ve woven 3D birds into textured backdrops, layered textures upon textures, and even infused the rich artistry of Rajasthan into textured compositions. My work celebrates textures in their fullest form, enhanced by vibrant, rising colours that carry profound symbolism.
To me, “rising” represents growth—success, prosperity, and the ascent of life itself. Every brushstroke radiates this upward journey, encapsulating the essence of rising. Yet, the interpretation of this theme varies from person to person, reflecting their unique perspectives and aspirations.
I don’t judge my buyers; they arrive as if by destiny, each with their own preferences and visions. Some are drawn to the intimacy of portraits, while others seek the abstract or admire the intricate beauty of textures. Their choices are deeply personal, shaped by individual tastes.
For some, the selection process is guided by the practical—a desire to harmonize art with their spaces. They request specific elements: a horse, a particular shade, or a unique design to complement their walls. This approach introduces constraints, shaping the creative process within boundaries. Others grant me creative freedom, trusting me to craft something inspired yet tailored.
Ultimately, buyers choose art on their own terms, driven by their will and connection to the piece. My role is to create, to offer stories and textures that resonate. Beyond that, I hold no expectations, only gratitude for those who find meaning in my work.
Q: Out of the hundreds of designs you’ve created, which one do you consider your best and why does it stand out?
A: Each piece is deeply meaningful to me because I pour my heart into every creation. My rope art, in particular, holds a special place in my soul. The inspiration for it came to me in a dream, and I brought that vision to life on the canvas. Two panels of this series have already found new homes, and this third panel continues the journey.
Unlike the previous works, this one deviates from the concept of two balancing circles. The design evolves with each iteration, and the backgrounds always shift to reflect new moods and dimensions. Yet, the essence of balance remains at its core, making this piece especially close to my heart.
To create this work, I scoured markets, gathering ropes of every size and texture. These diverse elements—meticulously woven into the composition—lend a tactile richness to the piece. As I assembled the ropes and crafted the design, the artwork unfolded naturally, transforming into something unexpectedly beautiful.
This particular panel debuted at the Lalit Hotel’s Art Junction, where it captured attention immediately. The owner of the Lalit himself recognized its unique charm and purchased it, a testament to the power of art born from dreams and heartfelt intention.
Q: What advice or message would you share with aspiring young artists striving to achieve success in the field of art?
A: Keep creating. Life is a journey filled with challenges, ups and downs, and countless opinions. You’ll encounter people who criticize your work—saying it’s excessive, too crowded, or not good enough. But none of that matters if your heart is in it. Listen to your inner voice and continue. Success and appreciation will come in time. When your art carries a message born from authenticity, it resonates. Stay true to your work, and the recognition will follow.
Success doesn’t arrive overnight; it’s a gradual climb. Take small, deliberate steps and trust the process. Each artist has their own path to success, and yours will unfold uniquely. The key is persistence. Whether you’re working on a small canvas or a large one, size doesn’t define the value of your art. What matters is consistency—showing up for your craft daily.
Treat your work with the same dedication as any essential routine. Just as you rise each morning to fulfil your basic duties, approach your art with the same discipline. Make creativity a habit, a practice that becomes second nature. In time, this commitment will lead you not only to success but also to fulfilment.
