BeyondBooks: ‘The support from the teachers has been great’

She has recently given her Class X Board exams and is now in Class XI at Apeejay School, Kharghar. She has always been passionate about art. When she looked at her work from when she first started, she realised how much simpler and less detailed it was compared to her paintings now. “I feel that my patience to focus on the finer parts of a painting has really developed. I am definitely still improving, but it feels rewarding to see how much more refined my art is becoming,” Sonia Kulkarni said in a candid interview, among other things.

What usually comes first for you: an emotion, an image in your mind, or a story you want to tell?

I usually enjoy painting something peaceful and a scenic image. Those kinds of scenes come to me naturally when I think about what I want to paint.

Has your approach to art changed now that you are in senior school?

I really only paint during holidays and vacations, but that has actually changed my approach. Because my time is more limited, I discover that I focus much more on the details whenever I get the chance to sit down and paint.

Is there a piece you created that feels especially personal to you?

I did a forest landscape that is really personal to me. I dedicated considerable time to the trees and lighting, and it was particularly meaningful as it marked the first occasion I recognised my ability to accomplish it. I also did a sunset painting recently. Seeing that I could make it look exactly how I wanted it to developed my interest even more and made me want to keep painting.

Do you see art professionally, or is it a space that is simply yours?

For now, art is definitely a space that is mine. It is my way of relaxing and focusing on something creative, especially during my holidays. While I am focused on my academics for the future, painting is a skill I want to keep refining and growing in. It is a personal space for me rather than a professional one.

What does art do that nothing else does?

Art is the one thing that really helps me build my focus. When I am painting or sketching, it trains me to sit still and stay patient for a long time. It is about getting into that zone where I can spend hours concentrating on the details and improving my work until it is exactly how I want it.

How has school contributed to your artistic journey?

School has played a big part because it provides me a place to present my work through different events and activities. It has helped foster my interest by providing me with the right environment to keep practising. The support from my teachers has also been exceptional. They really encourage me and help me improve.