December 18 saw one of the most intense FIFA World Cup finals of all time. Just when it seemed that Messi was finally about to win the only trophy that eluded him, France’s Kylian Mbappe created havoc to delay Argentina’s joy. The match went on from being a two goal Argentina lead to a dramatic 3-3 extra time tie.
However, the prayers of most football fans were answered as Argentina won the penalty shoot-out to clinch their third World Cup. It was the victory so many football lovers had prayed for. Argentina had finally won the FIFA World Cup, putting an end to a 36 year old wait, and Messi at last became a World Champion in the twilight years of his career.
As the iconic Number 10 stepped up to receive his gold medal, he came near the World Cup and gave the trophy a soft kiss on the head. It was a moment that touched the heart of every spectator in the stadium or in front of a screen.
And in the creative mind of Isha Monga, a class 6 student at Apeejay School, Nerul, this eternal moment painted a beautiful image. She then quickly took to her drawing sheet and expressed this creative spark. The result was a drawing that was not only beautiful but precious.
Speaking about the same in the Apeejay Aspiring Artist interview series, the young artist shares how experimenting with colours brings her profound joy. Read edited excerpts:
What’s the story behind this Messi drawing?
During the FIFA World Cup 2022, I saw all Argentina games and I loved the way Messi played. This drawing is from the final of the World Cup. After Argentina’s win, I saw this moment when Messi kissed the trophy for the first time. It was a very beautiful moment. So, I wanted to express it fully in my art. I have also drawn other sports personalities like Virat Kohli, and eminent leaders like Dr Stya Paul, the Founder- Chairman of Apeejay Education Society, and the First lady Smt Rajeshwari Paul in the past.
How much time did it take you to draw this?
It took me one and a half hours. I used the grid line method to draw the photo using the pencil and then I coloured it. In the grid line method, one has to first draw square boxes in the page using a specific centimeter distance. It was easy to draw using this technique.
Since when did you start drawing?
Since Nursery. I just loved to draw. I get inspired by nature, the amazing colors in nature and sceneries around move me a lot.
What is your definition of art?
Art for me is an expression of my creative streak on paper.
Your favourite art form?
Drawing and colouring. I like to experiment with colours as I draw as it gives me a lot of joy.
How does your school help you as an artist?
My school art teacher Pallavi ma’am inspires me a lot. She keeps telling me to take part in various competitions. Recently, she told me to take part in the Road Traffic Poster making competition. Out of 23000 participants, I won the third prize.
What are your next art works?
They are Guru Nanak ji, Shri Ganesha and Mother Teresa.
Finally, one tip for all art beginners?
Keep practicing. You will get better.
