She is, at present, studying in Class X and all set to step into Class XI, having recently taken her Board exam at Apeejay School, Kharghar. She enjoys creative activities like drawing and sketching. Meet Anvita Dnyaneshwar Patil. For Class XI, she wants to pursue engineering and hence will be taking up Science (non-medical), at the same time, she plans to continue developing her interest in art alongside her studies.
In an impromptu interview, she shares how she loves using charcoal pencils the most, among other things.
What do you enjoy drawing or painting the most, and why does that subject interest you?
I enjoy drawing portraits the most. I find it fascinating to capture detailed expressions and the unique features of a person. Small details like the eyes, hair, and shading make each face different, and working with charcoal or graphite helps me bring those details to life.
When you start a sketch or painting, do you usually plan it or let the idea develop as you work?
I usually plan before I begin. I first decide what I want to draw, and then I start working with the help of a reference picture. This helps me stay focused and achieve better accuracy in my work.
Which materials do you like using more for your artwork?
I like using charcoal pencils the most. They allow me to create sharp details and strong textures, especially for portraits. I also enjoy using pencil colours because they make the artwork look more vibrant and expressive.
Is there an artist, illustrator, or artwork that inspires you?
Chuck Close from the US inspires me. He is known for his large, detailed portraits. I admire his work ethic. He believed in consistent, disciplined effort rather than waiting for inspiration, and that approach motivates me.
Can you describe a painting or sketch you made that you felt really proud of?
I feel very proud of a sketch I made of an old lady. It took me almost 16 hours to complete because of the detailed work on her wrinkled skin and the calm expression on her face. It required a lot of patience and focus, and I felt very satisfied when I finally completed it.
When you make a mistake in your drawing or painting, how do you usually handle it?
I usually try to fix it by adjusting the shading and lines. Sometimes mistakes lead to new ideas, so I try to learn from them and improve the drawing instead of getting discouraged.
How does the school support your interest?
My school supports my interest by encouraging students to take part in art activities, competitions, and creative projects. They also organise exhibitions. Teachers appreciate and motivate us, which makes me feel more confident about improving my art skills.