Shweta Rukme‘s artistic journey wasn’t sparked by a single moment but by a gradual unfolding. At 14, when she sketched Lord Ganesha, she caught her first glimpse of a world beyond the ordinary. This ignited a passion for art in the deepest core of her heart that would grow over time.
Though she pursued a degree in business management, her heart remained with sketching. College life allowed her moments to nurture her talent, yet her creative spirit yearned for more. After graduation, she entered the corporate world, following the conventional path, but her soul longed for canvases, not cubicles. The corporate culture soon proved stifling, clashing with her artistic calling.
Lacking formal art training, Shweta relied on her unyielding passion and relentless drive to improve. Self-taught, she transformed from an eager amateur into a skilled professional artist. Her evolution is more than a journey—it’s a testament to perseverance and the beauty of following one’s true calling.
In an exclusive conversation with The Interview World, Shweta Rukme opens up about her artistic style and themes, her training process, sources of inspiration, the type of artwork she creates, and the exhibitions she’s participated in. Here are the key insights from their conversation.
Q: Can you share insights into the distinctive style and recurring themes that define your artwork?
A: My artistic practice spans a range of styles, including still life, creative compositions, and figurative works. I aim to capture the essence of my subjects by blending realism with imagination, and exploring their textures, forms, and narratives. Using a variety of mediums, primarily oil and acrylic, I also experiment with others to bring depth and character to my creations. This fusion of materials allows me to play with contrasts, layering, and vibrant colour palettes, giving my work the power to evoke emotions and tell stories that resonate deeply with viewers.
Indian themes deeply captivate me, offering an endless array of genres as diverse as they are rich. Moreover, India’s heritage is a boundless source of inspiration, drawing from centuries of art, culture, architecture, design, customs, and religions. Each region shares its unique story, weaving its identity into a vibrant tapestry of creative expression. The intricate designs of temples, the timeless beauty of classical music, the vivid colors of traditional attire, and the profound philosophies embedded in our customs are unrivalled. India, the cradle of such artistic brilliance, truly stands as the mother of global art.
Q: Can you tell us about the training or mentorship that shaped your journey as an artist?
A: I honed my artistic skills under the mentorship of Bhaskar Mandolu, a renowned artist from Pune. Learning directly from him offered a rich, hands-on experience that deeply influenced my creative journey. Although I haven’t pursued a formal art degree or professional course, his guidance has played a pivotal role in shaping my growth as an artist.
Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in this field?
A: Art has always been my greatest passion, a love that began in childhood. From a young age, I felt an unexplainable pull toward creativity. Unfortunately, without proper guidance or resources, I couldn’t pursue formal studies in the field. Yet, my dedication to art never wavered. I’ve always known that art is my true calling, and this enduring passion continues to inspire and fuel my creative journey.
Q: How long have you been practicing art professionally?
A: In 2018, I began creating professional artwork, marking the start of an incredible journey. Over the past six years, this path has been deeply enriching—filled with growth, exploration, and creative fulfillment. Each piece has served as a stepping stone, honing my skills and deepening my passion, while strengthening my connection with my audience.
Q: What types of art have you created so far?
A: I created a series of 3D Ganesha paintings that reflected my creativity and artistic vision. These works stood out for their uniqueness and deeply resonated with my audience, garnering an overwhelmingly positive response. Moreover, the innovative blend of design and craftsmanship made them highly sought-after, and I’m proud to say that they were all sold out.
Q: How many exhibitions have you participated in so far?
A: I’ve had the privilege of participating in three group shows and three to four solo exhibitions at the India Art Festival, where I showcased my work to a broader audience. In fact, these experiences have been incredibly fulfilling, and I look forward to more opportunities to share my art and connect with enthusiasts in the future.
