Achievements
Student Achiever: ‘My art teacher played a key role in motivating me’
A young artist from Apeejay School, Pitampura, a top 50 winner in a painting competition, has loved drawing since toddlerhood
Pablo Picasso once said, “Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.” This sentiment was brought to life by Noor Arora, a class X student from Apeejay School, Pitampura, who recently achieved a remarkable milestone in the world of art. She participated in the prestigious painting competition organised by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency 2024, Ministry of Power.
Competing in Category B, she emerged as one of the top 50 winners out of an astounding 8.5 lakh participants. Noor’s creativity and skill not only earned her a certificate but also a gift (Dom’s art kit) and a cash prize of Rs 2,000. The school proudly celebrated Noor’s achievement, sending out heartfelt congratulations for her exemplary artwork. Her success is a testament to the talent and dedication nurtured at Apeejay School, Pitampura.
In a candid interview, this budding artist shares her journey.
Tell us about yourself.
I have been passionate about drawing and painting since childhood and have actively pursued this interest through experimentation, competitions, and institutional training. My artistic journey began in kindergarten, where I started scribbling and experimenting with basic art forms. Over time, I developed an interest in techniques like sketching, water colours, and colourful drawings, which laid the foundation for my creative expression.
How did the school support your journey?
My art teacher has played a key role in motivating me. She recognised my talent in class V and encouraged me to participate in Inter-school competitions. I thank the school for providing the platform to showcase my abilities. She was the one who told me about this competition.
How did your artistic journey begin?
I refined my skills as I grew older through regular practice and by experimenting with various art forms. I also attended art coaching, which helped me explore and improve my techniques over the years.
What is your preferred style of painting?
I enjoy free-flowing forms of painting, particularly abstract patterns. I frequently use watercolours and acrylics on canvas, as they allow her to work without restrictions on colours or forms. I like painting portraits in a cartoon-like style rather than realistic ones. I also enjoy themes that convey deeper meanings like the competition entry on energy conservation.
Tell us about the competition entry.
I created a mixed-media painting featuring a girl with an umbrella. The umbrella symbolised energy conservation, representing a protective barrier against a future where energy resources might be depleted. The artwork depicted various ways to save energy, combining creativity and symbolism.
Parents’ role in your artistic growth.
They are a crucial source of motivation. They encouraged me to pursue her passion for art, provided emotional support, and helped me to embrace my mistakes and learn from them. Their unwavering encouragement helped me to succeed.
What are your plans?
I plan to pursue architecture, a field that combines art and creativity. I intend to keep painting as a hobby, as I have a deep emotional connection with my artwork and don’t enjoy selling the paintings. I also prefer working in a calm, pressure-free environment. Creativity flows best when I am relaxed and can work at my pace without feeling constrained by deadlines or expectations.
