‘Art is storytelling with colours’

Gauri Khanna, a class 7 student at Apeejay School, Model Town, Jalandhar, is not just any young student. Her innate artistic talent and creative flair have earned her the title of this week’s Aspiring Artist. Let’s dive into her journey of colors, textures, and endless creativity as she shares her thoughts on art and inspiration. Read edited excerpts:

Gauri, since when did you start drawing?
 I’ve been drawing since I was 5, but it wasn’t until my teenage years that I began to take art more seriously. It’s been a constant companion through all these years, and as I grew, so did my love for creating something new with each stroke.

Which art form is your favorite and why?
 Mixed media has always fascinated me. It allows me to break free from the constraints of any single medium. With mixed media, I can combine different textures, colors, and materials. This approach gives me complete freedom to experiment and express myself in ways that are unique and often unexpected.

And how does your school support you as an artist?
My school has been an incredible support system. From annual art exhibitions to inter-school competitions and even the prestigious Camlin Art Competition, I’ve had so many platforms to showcase my art. The recognition I’ve received has really boosted my confidence. Each award or compliment motivates me to push my creative boundaries even further.

 So, what is your definition of art?
 For me, art is more than just creating something beautiful. It’s a form of self-expression and communication. Through art, I can tell stories, evoke emotions, and inspire imagination. It challenges perspectives and encourages people to see the world in new and different ways.

Great! But how long does it take you to complete a single artwork? What are the common ideas and themes you explore?
On average, it takes me about 1-2 weeks to complete an artwork, depending on its complexity. The themes I often explore revolve around nature, festivals like Diwali, Holi, and Navratri, identity, and social causes such as education and environmental conservation. These subjects resonate deeply with me, and I find them endlessly inspiring.

What upcoming artworks are you working on?
 Right now, I’m experimenting with new mediums like glass painting and oil painting. I’m really excited to see how these techniques will shape my artistic journey and help me express my ideas in a new light.

Is there a new art form you wish to learn?
Absolutely! I’ve always been intrigued by digital art and animation. I think learning these forms would open up so many creative possibilities for me, blending traditional and modern techniques in ways I’ve only begun to imagine.

Do you have any hobbies apart from art?
Besides art, I love writing, playing music, and badminton. Each of these hobbies inspires my art in some way or another. Whether it’s the rhythm of a song or the discipline of a game, they all feed into my creative process.