‘Art can make you find and lose yourself at the same time’

Khwaish Nagpal is a prodigy at Apeejay School, Noida. She is a spectacular artist and has also published two books The Mysterious Journey and Back From the Dead on BriBooks publication. Selected as this week’s Apeejay Aspiring Artist, Khwaish speaks about her love for Mandala art and on how art is a process of birth and rebirth for the artist. Read edited excerpts:

 Since when did you start drawing?

I always had a passion for art. I was about 5 or 6 when I started developing a genuine interest and my parents put me in an art academy to learn the basics.

Quite encouraging to know! So which art form appeals the most to you?

As an artist, I love to diversify my artworks. But I would say my favorite form is Madhubani. The result of this form is absolutely beautiful and calms your mind. It is a traditional art form of India which must be revived. I also like to use charcoal, it’s a very creative artform.

How does your school support you as an artist?

I am proud to say that my school has always supported me, whether in academics or extracurriculars. The school has made sure that in the race of academics, we do not forget our passion. I am very grateful to my school for always supporting me in my art journey.

What’s your definition of art?

For me, art is a way to communicate your feelings, thoughts and expressions. If you don’t have an inspiration to draw, just sit down holding a brush and your hand will automatically start to draw. The pencil acts as a messenger of the brain and the heart. Art can make you find and lose yourself at the same time. It helps to increase one’s creativity and imagination.

How much time does it take you to complete an artwork? What are the common ideas and themes?

It usually takes me about 6-7 hours to complete an artwork. Though the time varies depending upon the theme and the medium used. The common ideas and themes include social issues, recent happenings, episodes from history or mythology and as mentioned before, the feelings and expressions I mean to convey.

Any upcoming artwork?

I am currently working upon a full page mandala art on an A3 size sheet. I am also laying the idea for drawing Medusa and Icarus, figures from Greek mythology.

Splendid! A new artform you wish to learn?

I wish to learn Architectural drawing. It is a very good art form to practice, especially if one wants to try perspective in future. I would also like to try photorealism. Though a very hard art form, as one has to make the art piece look very real. I believe it can be achieved through hard work and dedication.

What are your other hobbies apart from art?

Apart from art I love to read and write. I always take a book with me wherever I go. Reading also helps to draw as at times, I have drawn the scenes I have visualised by reading books.

Reading also makes you a better writer. I love to write. Whether it be stories, essays or articles. I usually like to write articles and essays about social issues or historical events. I have a  vivid imagination and love to use it for writing stories. I have also published two of my books, the mysterious journey and back from the dead through the Bribooks publishing website.