‘I am making the largest portrait of Mahadev!’

Raju Kushwaha is a brilliant artist currently studying architecture at Apeejay Institute of Technology-School of Architecture & Planning (AIT-SAP) in Greater Noida. He loves making art works on human anatomy and facial expressions and his latest work on a human face in the backdrop of a soul searching shade of blue goes on to speak volumes of his artistic talent. 

Selected as this week’s Artist of the Week, let us see how the budding architect explains his love for colour, shapes and designs. Read edited excerpts: 

Since when did you start drawing?
It has not been much time since I have been drawing. I started only three years ago but with each drawing I feel a world of improvement in me. 

Which art form is your favourite and why?
Portrait Sketching (pencil) is my favourite form because anyone can play with colours but the real task is when you play in shades of black and white that is challenging yet so rewarding. 

How does your college support you as an artist?
The college supports each and every student with much love and interest. Many extracurricular activities like poster-making competitions, art competitions are frequently held to give our talent a platform.

What is your definition of art?
Art is the chaos going in my mind. To take it out on the paper is a huge source of stress reduction. 

How much time does it take you to complete 1 artwork? What are the common ideas and themes? 
It depends upon the size of the artwork. But my treasured field of work are human anatomy and facial expressions. I enjoy this the most. 

Any upcoming artworks?
I am trying to make the largest portrait of Mahadev, size 3025 sqft. It is a work in progress!

Wow! And what new art forms do you wish to learn?
Acrylic painting! It has been long on my art bucket list. 

Finally, other hobbies apart from art?
I love to play chess, travel and listen to music!