‘Mandala art form has captivated my heart’

Ananya Suroshe is a beautiful artist. She is a class 6 student at Apeejay School, Kharghar, and already has a skilled hand when it comes to paper and colours. In this week’s Aspiring Artist interview series, the drawing champ explains why she prefers Mandala art form the most, and how Warli as well as Madhubani paintings have enchanted her heart. Read edited excerpts:

When did your journey into art begin?

It began very early. I don’t even remember clearly, it was that early. I started drawing at the age of four. I was in my pre-primary class then.

Every artist has a treasured artform! Which is yours?

I was always passionate about all the various Indian drawing and painting art forms. However, the one closest to my heart is the Mandala art form. It is one of the most unique and old tribal art forms. It is also believed that this art form is drawn on walls and floors to spiritually protect one’s home and also to welcome God. I also like this art form because of its perfect symmetry and accuracy.

How does your school support you as an artist?

My school provides me with various platforms to showcase my art works and always encourages me to participate in various drawing competitions. Last year, we were taken to Nerul to participate in Navi Mumbai’s biggest drawing and painting competition arranged by The Times Group. Thousands of children came from different schools. To participate in that competition was a great experience for me.  

Every artist has their understanding of art. How would you define it?

For me, art is an ability to express your ideas, emotions or anything else you feel or like in a creatively unique manner.

How do you approach an art work? How much time does an artwork take?

I usually complete a drawing in approximately ninety minutes. My preference is mostly scenery themes or drawing natural sceneries. These are amongst my treasured themes for an artwork. Nature inspires me the most. 

So what are your upcoming artworks?

I have recently started with canvas paintings and will also learn pencil shading art in the near future.

One artform in your bucket list?

There are 2 artforms and I like them both equally- Madhubani and Warli paintings. I wish to learn these two in the upcoming year.

Lastly, some other hobbies apart from art?

I like fitness activities like swimming, cycling and running. I also like reading books and dancing. You can say I am an active person.