HS Arts Inspiration

Inspiration- The Honest Journey of an Artist  

Discovering Artistic Passion at a Young Age  

My artistic journey began in childhood, where the world itself seemed like an infinite  

canvas. Crayons and finger paints ignited my fascination with color, enabling me to  

translate emotions into tangible creations. Art became my voice when words failed  

me, offering solace and healing during life's ups and downs.  

As I grew, so did my passion, inspired  

by great artists of the past. I explored  

diverse mediums, from water colours to  

oil paints each revealing facets of my  

evolving identity. Today, I cherish the  

lifelong path art has carved, teaching  

me persistence, creativity, and self-  

expression. It's a testament to the  

magic of discovering one's passion  

early, a reminder that our passions  

define who we are. The seeds of  

creativity were sown deep within my  

soul, and they sprouted naturally, like the first colorful blooms of spring.  

Art was my sanctuary, a safe space where I could process life's complexities and  

find healing.  

In every stroke of the brush, in every line on the canvas, I find not only art but also a  

piece of my soul. It is a reminder that our passions are not just hobbies; they are the  

very essence of who we are. My artistic journey is an enduring testament to the  

magic of discovering one's passion at a tender age, which I wish to share.  

A Treasure Unfading: The Spark of Artistry  

I vividly recall a time when I was 5 or 6 years old,  

enrolled in the 1st standard at Kendriya Vidyalaya  

School, Trivandrum, under the tutelage of Mrs. Nair.  

It was during this early chapter of my life that my  

father, with a heart full of affection, took me to a  

stationery shop. Our mission was to purchase a  

stack of books and notebooks, yet amidst the array  

of educational supplies, my young eyes were  

magnetically drawn to a colorful treasure.  

It was a sleek, metallic box of "Apsara" color pencils,  

adorned with a captivating illustration of an elephant  

on its lid. Until that moment, I had only encountered  

color pencil sets made of paper or cardboard. This one, however, was different, and  

I fell head over heels in love at first sight. Gently, I turned to my father and uttered,  

"Daddy, can I please have this color pencil set?" Without hesitation, he granted my  

wish, and that humble box became a cherished possession.  

I safeguarded it diligently in my school  

bag, guarding it like a sentinel. This,  

perhaps, was the initial catalyst for  

the artistic spark within me - an  

episode that remains etched in my  

memory as the earliest recollection of  

my artistic journey.  

In the years that followed, I continued  

to acquire color pencils, crayons, and  

pastels, but that "Apsara" set retained its special place, to be used sparingly, as if  

each stroke carried the weight of a thousand dreams.  

Now, can you fathom, even in your wildest dreams, that I still possess this treasure  

after half a century? Though it may lack monetary value, to me, it's a priceless relic  

of my artistic odyssey. This tale serves as a poignant reminder that you don't need  

to rub two stones together to ignite artistic passion; sometimes, it's the smallest,  

most unexpected moments that kindle the brightest flames of creativity.  

Igniting the Flame: A Childhood Artistic Triumph  

It was an ordinary day in Kendriya Vidhyalya, Sector 31, Chandigarh, where my  

journey as an artist began. I was just a third-grader a young boy of about 9 years , a  

curious and wide-eyed child navigating the  

wonders of the world. The sun's rays  

streamed into the classroom, casting a warm  

glow on our desks, as the teacher announced  

an upcoming art competition that would  

forever change the course of my life.  

The competition wasn't just a school event; it  

was a competition with a twist - selected  

artwork would be sent to the erstwhile USSR  

(Union of Soviet Socialist Republics) for  

judging.  

My chosen subject was a rainy street scene  

of Chandigarh. I meticulously painted the wet  

streets, the reflections of streetlights, and the  

pedestrians hurrying along the sidewalk. Yet,  

the centerpiece of my painting was a  

magnificent Ambassador car, an iconic  

vehicle of its time. With its curved, symmetrical lines and distinct character, it was  

much more than just an automobile.  

Little did I know that this simple act, this participation in a national competition,  

would set the wheels in motion for my artistic journey?  

Weeks later, the news arrived - I had won a prize! My painting had been selected  

from among entries from all over India and was deemed worthy of recognition. It  

was a moment of pure elation, a validation of my creative spirit that would stay with  

me for a lifetime.  

Looking back, I realize that this seemingly small achievement ignited a fire within;  

shaping me into the artist and human being I am today. It was not just about winning  

a prize; it was about discovering the boundless possibilities of self-expression  

through art.  

Inherited Challenges  

Born in the heart of warriors Haryana, as a Jat (fondly called 'Texan'), my  

identity runs deep in this  

rustic soil where strength and  

combat  

prowess  

reign  

supreme. Art here, viewed as  

'sissy' and 'weak,' struggled  

to find its place amidst a  

culture focused on valor. My  

lineage, four generations of  

Army officers, had witnessed  

wars  

Mesopotamia,  

emphasizing  

from  

Italy  

to  

further  

divide  

the  

between art and the call of  

duty. In this environment, I  

embarked on my artistic  

journey in secret, creating  

under the cover of night,  

craving appreciation that  

remained  

solitude  

unyielding  

elusive.  

sculpted  

spirit  

The  

an  

that  

treasures art as a hidden  

gem in the land of warriors.  

Improving Drawing Alongside Adapting in New Environments  

As an Army officer's child, my life was  

marked by the nomadic rhythm of  

postings and relocations. With each  

transfer, my family and I embarked on  

new adventures, leaving behind familiar  

landscapes and acquainting ourselves  

with new ones. In the sixth standard, I  

found myself moving from the familiar  

halls of KV Chandigarh to the  

enchanting hills of Dalhousie, a  

picturesque hill station in Himachal  

Pradesh, India.  

Dalhousie, with its mist-shrouded  

mountains and verdant landscapes,  

offered a canvas of inspiration. The  

tranquil beauty of this hill station stirred  

my artistic soul, and I found solace in  

the midst of nature's grandeur. Here,  

amidst the whispers of the pines and the melody of mountain streams, my journey  

as an artist continued.  

Through these interactions, I discovered the transformative power of art not only as  

a means of self-expression but also as a vehicle for fostering creativity and  

resilience in others. The sparkle in a child's eye as they unveiled their creation  

mirrored the joy that art had brought into my life.  

The Only Art Teacher I Ever Had  

In my years at Dalhousie Public School, the  

concept of art was nearly absent until one  

day, a newfound figure entered our lives -  

an art teacher. Until then, various teachers  

had taken charge of the class, but there  

was never a dedicated art instructor.  

On that memorable day, our art teacher  

ushered us outdoors to a mountainous  

setting, where we gathered in the open  

expanse of a locked bungalow. It was here  

that I received my inaugural art lesson, a  

moment that would resonate with me for a lifetime.  

He spoke of proportions, stressing their paramount importance in the world of art.  

He emphasized the notion that nothing was more disheartening than creating a  

masterpiece filled with intricate details, only to realize that the proportions were  

awry. His illustrative gesture, with a pencil in hand, thumb raised like a hitchhiker,  

eyes squinted in deep concentration, and tongue sticking out, remains etched in my  

memory, nearly four decades later. To some, it may seem comical, but to an artist,  

it's an invaluable measuring technique.  

Practice of Proportions  

This lesson took root in my artistic journey, propelling me to practice proportions  

tirelessly, particularly in outdoor settings. As I  

honed this skill, I extended it to human  

anatomy, dissecting not only the human form  

but also individual body parts.  

Regrettably, our art teacher's presence was  

ephemeral, spanning just a few months before  

he departed from the school. However, the  

profound lesson he imparted on that luck day  

served as the cornerstone of my artistic  

foundation. It propelled me along the path of  

improvement, shaping me into the artist I am  

today, and for that, I remain profoundly grateful.  

Aiding Classmates, Elevating My Craft: A Tale of Artistic Progress  

During my 9th and 10th-grade academic journey,  

practical files in subjects like Physics, Chemistry,  

and Biology introduced me to a unique opportunity.  

These files required intricate drawings on the left  

pages, alongside written explanations on the right.  

I took this artistic challenge head-on, crafting  

detailed drawings with precision and finesse. But it  

wasn't just about my own artistry; I saw a chance  

to assist my classmates.  

Word spread, and soon, I became the go-to  

person for drawing guidance. Helping them wasn't  

just altruistic; it was a chance to refine my own  

skills. As I explained, demonstrated, and enhanced  

these drawings, my artistry evolved.  

This experience taught me that art is a shared journey.  

Collaborating with classmates, I not only improved my  

drawings but also deepened my appreciation for art's  

power to connect and uplift. It wasn't just about  

becoming a better artist; it was about becoming a  

more compassionate and collaborative human being.  

In addition to my school routine, I pursued subjects  

and connected with individuals who held a special  

place in my heart, such as my esteemed family  

members who made the ultimate sacrifice while  

defending our country. These particular subjects and  

people fueled my determination and prevented me  

from giving up midway.  

Recognition Beyond Expectation: My Outstanding Practical Books  

During the 10th board exams at Dalhousie  

Public School, external invigilators brought  

a pleasant surprise. Their amazement was  

palpable as they leafed through my  

practical files. They marveled at the  

intricacy of the drawings, wondering aloud  

how someone could wield a pen or pencil  

so beautifully. "These are even better than  

the real specimens," they exclaimed.  

Amongst all my files, the Biology practical  

book garnered the most praise, offering  

ample opportunities for shading and detail.  

The external examiners couldn't contain  

their  

astonishment  

and  

eagerly  

showcased my work to fellow students,  

teachers, and even the school principal.  

Their admiration didn't stop there. They sought permission from both me and our  

esteemed Principal to carry my files back as exemplary samples. The overwhelming  

sense of pride and accomplishment from this recognition was immeasurable. It was  

a pivotal moment in my journey of developing into an artist, reaffirming my passion  

and propelling me toward greater artistic heights.  

Navigating the Transition from School to College Life  

After completing my 10th standard, I had to  

relocate from Dalhousie to Chandigarh.  

Following the board exams, I found myself  

with ample free time, and most importantly,  

no one was pressuring me to study until the  

results were announced and I could join  

college. During this period, I dedicated my  

days to practicing drawing and painting. I  

would choose various subjects by browsing  

through magazines and books from the library. This allowed me to further enhance  

my skills and continue improving.  

Friction Ignited the Fire  

I was deeply passionate and engrossed in art,  

to the extent that I aspired to enroll in an Arts  

college in Chandigarh. However, my entire  

family, particularly my father, strongly  

opposed this decision. He tried to convince  

me by presenting the harsh reality of life,  

stating, "There is no career in art, and you will  

end up wandering aimlessly with a cotton bag  

and burden on your shoulders." Despite his  

efforts, I remained unconvinced. In an attempt  

to dissuade me further, he called upon his  

cousin, Mr. Dharam, whom, I had proclaimed  

as my mentor or "Guru" on my own. Mr.  

Dharam shared his own experience of  

pursuing Fine Arts from one of the top  

colleges in India, only to find himself and his  

friends compelled to take up teaching positions in schools with limited prospects for  

growth. He advised me to prioritize securing a good job and, if I truly had a passion  

for art, to continue pursuing it alongside my career. Taking his advice to heart, I  

enrolled in Pre-University at Shri Guru Gobind Singh Khalsa College in Chandigarh,  

opting for non-medical science subjects. Unfortunately, the college offered limited  

opportunities for artistic expression, so I had to practice on my own and focused on  

other subjects, particularly English, as our professor, Mrs. Rita, was exceptionally  

skilled in teaching it. This helped me in my later part of life.  

Navigating Streams and Changing Colleges: Art Remains a Constant  

Upon completing my Pre-University education at  

Shri Guru Gobind Singh Khalsa College in  

Chandigarh, I embarked on a journey that led me  

to various colleges and experiences. Initially, I  

enrolled in a "Pre-Engineering" program at DAV  

College, Chandigarh. The decision to change  

colleges was influenced by multiple factors,  

including its strong reputation and the fact that all  

five of my uncles had attended there. However,  

the underlying motivation behind this shift was  

the presence of a vibrant Arts club within the  

institution. It's worth noting that my primary  

learning experience came through self-practice  

and unwavering dedication.  

The following year, I found  

myself at All India Heroes  

Jat Memorial College in  

Rohtak,  

scientific  

Unfortunately,  

pursuing  

a

path.  

didn't  

I

resonate with the routine  

and atmosphere at this  

new college, prompting me  

to  

return  

to  

after  

DAV  

only  

Chandigarh  

three months. During this  

brief stint in Rohtak, I  

serendipitously formed a  

small team with fellow  

artists, including Harvinder  

Malik  

"Jonney"  

and  

Naveen. Together, we  

formed a team of four to  

participate in a painting  

competition at IC College,  

Rohtak.  

My First Encounter with Brush  

Once I registered for the competition, I was left with just 3-4 days to choose a  

subject and medium. Oil painting was uncharted territory for me, and I had no prior  

experience with it. I ventured to an art supply store and purchased a limited set of oil  

painting materials. The challenge ahead loomed large, and I grappled with the  

fundamental question that often plagues beginners: "How do I begin?" Seeking  

guidance, I turned to the library, where I pored over books about oil painting  

techniques and selected a landscape from a Walter Foster book as my subject.  

As I started working on the painting, it quickly became apparent that my initial  

attempts fell short of my expectations; the result was flat and far from resembling  

reality. Frustrated, I sought the counsel of my mentor, Mr. Dhram. I asked him,  

"What's wrong with it?" His response left an indelible mark on my artistic journey:  

"There is no right or wrong in art; do what you enjoy. It's a journey to be embraced,  

and as long as you don't give up, you'll witness growth and improvement." I've  

carried this valuable lesson with me ever since.  

After some persistent urging, Mr. Dhram picked up a brush and demonstrated a few  

strokes while imparting insights into perspective, depth, shadows, colors, grays, and  

more. Armed with this newfound knowledge, I returned to my painting, feeling  

enlightened and filled with renewed enthusiasm. Although I couldn't complete the  

painting in time for the competition, I had gained valuable insights into working with  

oil paints.  

The competition itself saw students from over 40 colleges creating paintings and  

sketches over the course of three hours on the expansive college lawn. I managed  

to create three artworks during this time: an oil landscape, an abstract piece, and a  

pencil sketch of the radio tower visible from the lawn.  

In a twist of fate, a swarm of small insects became entangled in the wet oils of my  

abstract painting, adding an unexpected and stunning effect to the bright orange  

background. No one would have guessed that these were insects from a distance.  

Given the lack of time to remove them and repaint the background, I left them as  

they were. To our astonishment, the abstract piece won the first prize, and the  

sketch earned second place. Our team celebrated with humor, Haryanvi songs, a  

short skit, and jubilant songs, showcasing our diverse talents.  

The thrill of winning such a prestigious competition kept me awake that night, as it  

marked a significant milestone in my artistic journey. Jonney, who was a highly  

skilled artist, made my victory feel like a miracle. While I had previously focused on  

sketching, working with oils was an entirely new experience. This incident served as  

a catalyst for my artistic development, and I remain grateful to my teammates for  

their role in it. Although we've lost touch, I am confident that they have achieved  

great success in their artistic endeavors and wish them continued growth in their  

creative pursuits.  

The following day, brimming with  

energy and confidence, I resumed  

work on the landscape that I had  

left unfinished. This landscape,  

created in 1986 as my first oil  

painting, remains my favorite to  

this day. I believe I can never  

replicate the effect, particularly  

that of the tree, and thus, I've  

never mustered the courage to  

attempt it again.  

Art Journey continues on Transition from College to Post Graduation  

Upon my return to Chandigarh, I reignited my artistic journey with unwavering  

determination. I began experimenting with various mediums, including pastels,  

watercolors, oil on canvas, and pencil sketches. As anticipated, my skills continued  

to evolve and improve. I owe a debt of gratitude to the lifelong friends I made along  

the way, including Samby, Mamu, Don, Vineet, Jhingta, Bisheshar, Dutta, and  

others, who provided constant encouragement.  

Following my graduation, I relocated to Jaipur and enrolled in the MA English  

literature program at Rajasthan University. My artistic voyage persisted, and I forged  

new, enduring friendships, primarily among my classmates, some seniors, and an  

occasional junior. I extend heartfelt thanks to each of them, including Dabloo (may  

he rest in peace), Manan, Patni, Sanjeeva, Jai, Bully, Hada, Subhash, and Bhawani,  

for not only shaping my life but also becoming an integral part of it.  

Lifelong Pursuit of Art Even After Joining A Job  

One day, out of the blue, my father issued an ultimatum, stating that he would only  

support me for one more year, and I should begin searching for a source of income.  

This stark reality shook me to my core, prompting me to take my future seriously. I  

embarked on a journey of rigorous studying and competing in various exams. I  

successfully secured a position in government service, where I continued my artistic  

pursuits for the next 34 years. During this time, I accumulated a wealth of real-life  

experiences, which I plan to share at a later date. Suffice it to say, I never  

abandoned my passion for art.  

Over the years, I produced thousands of artworks and generously gifted them to  

friends and colleagues. My reasoning was simple: I needed to keep honing my  

skills, but I couldn't possibly manage such a vast collection of art. By presenting one  

work to someone I knew, I not only made them immensely happy but also ensured  

the preservation of that single piece of art.  

I consider myself fortunate to have been associated with and collaborated closely  

with many talented artists throughout my journey, including Jangid, Deepinder, SSC  

Singh (may he rest in peace), Sandeep, Divya, Shakti singh Ahlawat, Rajesh, and  

numerous others. Their presence and creativity kept the artistic flame burning  

brightly within me.  

Art during COVID: When the Going Gets Tough, the Tough Get Going  

During the challenging times of the Covid pandemic, I ventured into the world of  

Acrylic colors and found myself falling in love with this medium. For now, you can  

explore my artwork, but stay tuned for more stories to come.  

The chapter of my life dedicated to full-time art - "Why Now" - represents a  

transformative phase in my journey as an artist. To be continued...  

Explore my full collection of acrylic paintings and discover the stories behind each  

piece at my website.