Mastering the Art of Portraits: Meet Atharv Gupta

Atharv Gupta is a class 8 student at Apeejay School, Charkhi Dadri, Haryana. He is a delightful artist whose love for portraits is well known in his school. When it comes to sketching, the young talent simply does magic. Selected as this week’s Apeejay Aspiring Artist, the young sketcher takes us through his artistic journey as he recounts what got him started. Read edited excerpts:

Atharv, when did you start your artistic journey?
Four years ago, my tryst with art began. I was in Class 4 back then, and there’s been no stopping since!

What inspired you to pick art?
My sister, Sunidhi Gupta, is my biggest inspiration. She’s an expert painter, and I used to watch her work with awe. I wanted to draw like her. She’s always been my muse.

So which is your favourite art form?
I love sketching, especially portraits. I use sketch pens to bring them to life. Art is everywhere, and inspiration can come from the most random places—you just need to notice it.

How does your school encourage the artist in you?
Our fine art teacher is amazing. He started us off with still life and then gradually moved us to portraits and other forms of drawing. The learning process has been continuous and enriching over the years.

That’s great! How much time does it take to make one portrait?
It usually takes about 7-8 days. I like to focus on the details and work patiently to create something that stands out.

Any particular topics you love to draw?
I’m all about portraits. Pencil shading is my go-to technique because it lets me highlight intricate details and add artistic flair. There is a realistic shade to portraits and as an artist I try to bring out that to the best possible. 

What are the subjects for your upcoming sketches?
I haven’t decided yet! I’m still brainstorming ideas (laughs).

And lastly, Atharv, what are your hobbies beyond art?
I play the flute, which is another passion of mine. I also love singing. Music is something that inspires me almost as much as art does.