Pratibha Awasthi: A Canvas of Colors, Cultures, and Cadence

Nestled amidst the tranquil embrace of Baudhiya Kallan, a quaint hamlet graced by the presence of Dudhwa National Park in the Terai region of Lakhimpur Kheri district, Uttar Pradesh, the childhood of Pratibha Awasthi blossomed. Here, amid the whispers of nature and the vibrant tapestry of tribal heritage, her spirit found resonance and her imagination took flight.

In the simplicity of its underdeveloped landscape, lies a wealth of tribal artistry, a visual feast that bewitches the senses. These indigenous expressions, with their profound depth and captivating allure, wove themselves seamlessly into the fabric of Pratibha’s existence.

As she embarked on her academic journey, delving into the realms of Art and Literature, her pursuits transcended mere pastimes, becoming the very essence of her being. With each stroke of the brush and every penned word, she sought to capture the essence of her soulful aspirations.

Driven by a desire to carve her niche as a contemporary artist, Pratibha draws inspiration from the vibrant tapestry of tribal life and the surrounding natural milieu. Through the mediums of acrylic, oil, charcoal, ink, and various other media, she endeavors to encapsulate the semi-conscious realms of thought, evoking the serene simplicity of her environment.

In an exclusive exchange with The Interview World, Pratibha Awasthi invites us into the intimate realm of her artistic odyssey. Here, she unveils the unique hues of her painting styles, each stroke a testament to her inner reverence for nature’s splendor. Amidst her discourse, she illuminates the nuanced landscape of Indian paintings, drawing poignant distinctions between the Eastern and Western paradigms. With eloquence, she shares insights into her recent endeavors, each project a testament to her boundless creativity and unwavering passion.

Q: What criteria do you use to select the nature themes for the majority of your paintings?

A: Nestled within the bucolic embrace of Uttar Pradesh’s hinterlands lies my birthplace, a realm where nature’s symphony orchestrates life itself. Amidst verdant expanses and whispering winds, I came into existence. My formative years unfolded amidst the rustic charm of village life, where the rhythms of nature synchronized with my earliest lessons.

As I journeyed through my academic pursuits, from the genesis of learning to the culmination of fifth grade, the rustic embrace of the countryside was my steadfast companion. Beyond the confines of the village, another sanctuary awaited in the Lakhimpur Kheri district, where a familial abode stood amidst sprawling fields and flourishing foliage.

Thus, ensconced within the gentle cradle of nature, my spirit found solace and inspiration. Its essence permeated my being, weaving a tapestry of wonder and reverence within my consciousness. Each day dawned with the allure of the natural world, beckoning me with its beauty and mysteries. In its presence, I found not just a home, but a sanctuary for my soul’s deepest yearnings.

Q: What inspired your journey into painting, leading it to become either a passion or profession?

A: In the tapestry of my life, education forms a vibrant thread. My journey through academia led me to the halls of Kanpur University, where I pursued a master’s degree in both literature and painting. It was here that my fervent love for the arts truly blossomed.

Marriage, a union that often shapes destinies, brought me to traverse diverse landscapes. From the serene valleys of Dharmshala to the rugged terrains of Jammu Kashmir, the picturesque vistas of Shimla, and the bustling cityscape of Chandigarh, each locale painted its own unique strokes upon my canvas. Nature became my muse, and I found solace in its embrace.

As my marital journey unfolded, so too did my professional artistic endeavors. For over 27 years, I have dedicated myself to the craft of painting, weaving intricate stories with each stroke of the brush. It was in the crucible of matrimony that my passion for art found fertile ground, nurtured by the myriad experiences of life’s journey.

Transitioning from the quietude of my upbringing in Uttar Pradesh, the bustling streets of Delhi greeted me with open arms. Here, amidst the pulsating heartbeat of the city, I found myself immersed in a world rich with art history, vibrant exhibitions, and thought-provoking symposiums. Delhi became my new canvas, where I painted my aspirations and dreams upon the tapestry of urban life.

Q: What is the typical timeframe required to create a full-size painting?

A: In my creative process, I meticulously construct layers, each imbued with its own story. With each stroke, I weave texture into the canvas, a dance between light and shadow. Oil painting, a patient craft, demands time as its silent partner. It’s a journey that unfolds over nearly two weeks, a symphony of hues and emotions.

Yet, should I embrace the vibrant energy of acrylic colors, the narrative shifts. In just three to four days, the tale finds its conclusion. But beware, for the essence lies not solely in speed but in the depth of expression. How delicately do we caress the subject, how profoundly do we etch our marks upon the canvas?

In the realm of creation, time bends to the artist’s will. In the whirlwind of a workshop, a masterpiece may emerge in mere days. But let us not mistake swiftness for excellence. For true artistry, with its subtleties and whispers, is a slow-blooming flower, unfurling its beauty over the passage of days and nights.

Q: What is the prevailing environment for painters and the art community within the country?

A: In the ethereal ambiance of artistic pursuit, I’ve witnessed the graceful ingress of women into this venerable vocation. A magnetic current now flows, drawing women towards the crafting of their careers in the realm of painting. While men once predominated, I recall the scarce presence of women when I embarked upon this journey. Yet today, a burgeoning cohort of female talents grace our canvases, enriching the artistic landscape. Should a woman aspire to unfurl her creativity through the medium of paint, she is met with a plethora of opportunities, beckoning her to express her unique vision and voice upon the canvas of existence.

Q: What are the key distinguishing features and contributions of Indian paintings in comparison to Western paintings?

A: In the vibrant tapestry of modern Indian artistry, the pulse of tradition beats resoundingly. Yet, amidst this rich heritage, the threads of contemporary expression seem to fray, whispering a fading tale.

Nevertheless, a few seasoned maestros persist in breathing life into the canvas of contemporary art. Their strokes, though solitary, echo with the fervor of innovation.

In contrast, a new breed of artisans emerges, guided not solely by muse but by the commission’s beckoning call. Their craft bends to the desires of patrons, shaping visions of Ram-Sita and other classical motifs with practiced hands.

Thus, the artistic landscape evolves, as these diverse hands weave narratives that blend tradition with modernity. Today, the spotlight illuminates the tapestry of Indian culture, casting its hues across the canvas of creativity.

Q: What is the global recognition and influence of contemporary Indian painters in the international art scene?

A: In the realm of contemporary artistry, Indian painters captivate with their mesmerizing strokes and unparalleled excellence. Their prowess transcends borders, propelled by the rich tapestry of Indian culture which unfurls globally. Through numerous cultural exchange initiatives in Japan and Korea, they weave threads of creativity that resonate profoundly.

In these distant lands, they not only garner monetary wealth but also command immense respect for their craft. Moreover, the global embrace of Indian culture is palpable, manifesting in a prolific adoption seen across diverse spectrums. From vibrant canvases to intricate portrayals, people find solace and intrigue in the vivid depictions of Indian heritage and ethos, immortalized in strokes of paint and hues of emotion.

Q: What are the distinguishing artistic nuances that set Indian paintings apart from Western paintings?

A: European artists dance with hues upon their canvases, orchestrating a symphony of colors. Their technique, a unique brushstroke that weaves tales of emotion, diverges from the vibrant tapestries of Indian artistry. In contrast, Indian artisans, guardians of culture’s essence, wield diverse methods, their strokes imbued with the rich heritage that permeates their soulful creations.

Q: What artists have influenced and inspired your work?

A: Enthralled by the captivating strokes of Prem Singh’s canvas, I find myself immersed in a world of boundless creativity. A fusion artist, Singh’s work transcends conventional boundaries. His artistic expression, a silent symphony, eludes mere visual perception, inviting instead a journey of contemplation.

Within the intricate tapestry of his creations, lyrical designs intertwine, weaving a mesmerizing spell across space and earth. Each stroke resonates with the essence of nature’s beauty and purpose, captivating the mind with its ethereal charm.

Similarly, my admiration extends to Anjolie Ela Menon, a luminary in India’s contemporary art scene. Delving into her oeuvre, I am entranced by the mastery of her craft. Menon’s preferred medium, oil on masonite, becomes a vessel for her boundless creativity.

Layer upon layer of translucent colors and delicate washes breathe life into her canvases, each stroke a testament to her artistic finesse. Renowned for her religious-themed works and portraiture, Menon’s vibrant palette dances across the canvas, evoking a sense of awe.

From the bold strokes of cubism to echoes of the European Renaissance, Menon’s versatility knows no bounds. Each piece a testament to her unwavering dedication to her craft, leaving an indelible mark on the canvas of contemporary art.

Q: What is the average number of exhibitions in which you participate annually?

A: In the grand tapestry of my artistic journey, I typically grace 6 to 7 collective showcases annually. However, this year has unfurled a particularly prolific chapter, as I’ve already lent my creations to 8 exhibitions. Within the bustling heart of Delhi’s vibrant art scene, my works have adorned the walls of 3 to 4 esteemed venues.

Most recently, I was honored to partake in a collective exposition nestled within the elegant confines of the Lalit Hotel, held in the crisp embrace of January’s dawn. Here, amidst the hushed whispers of connoisseurs and the curious gaze of passersby, my canvases found their voice. Each stroke, a whispered tale; each hue, a symphony of emotions.

The reverberations of my art were met with a resounding chorus of praise. Visitors, ensnared by the ethereal dance of brush upon canvas, bestowed upon my creations their heartfelt admiration. For in each stroke lies a fragment of my soul, and in each piece, a story waiting to be told.

Q: How different are your paintings from other artists?

A: In my art, I immerse myself in a profound thematic exploration. It is a celebration of the multifaceted essence of femininity, embracing the sublime forces of feminism, maternal strength, and the boundless creativity inherent in the cosmos.

Central to my vision is the portrayal of the maternal figure as the primordial wellspring of creation. With each brushstroke, I seek to evoke the awe-inspiring magnitude of motherhood’s influence. It leaves an indelible imprint upon the canvas, infusing my works with a distinctive vitality and resonance.

Q: What are the current projects you’re actively involved in?

A: In my latest artistic endeavor, the canvas becomes a portal, inviting viewers to explore the enigmatic tapestry of tribal existence. Entitled “Unveiling the Tales of Tribal Life,” this series emerges from the depths of my consciousness, each stroke a testament to the hidden narratives pulsating within tribal communities.

Within the vibrant hues lies more than mere pigment; they are the manifestations of the artist’s reverie, intertwined with the essence of nature and the poignant chronicles of existence’s tumultuous journey.

Among these evocative pieces, the living root bridges of Meghalaya stand as ethereal marvels, bridging the chasm between human ingenuity and the raw splendor of the natural world. Constructed by the adept hands of the Khasi and Jaintia tribes, these bridges embody a symbiotic relationship between humanity and its surroundings, exuding an undeniable allure that transcends mere functionality.

Recently anointed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, these living root bridges carry within them a legacy of resilience, endurance, and the ever-changing rhythms of life. Through my canvas, I endeavor to capture the multifaceted essence of these architectural wonders, weaving together threads of vitality, allure, strife, and triumph into a tapestry of profound beauty.