Today we’d like to introduce you to Prerna Gupta.
Hi Prerna, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Ever since I was a kid, I’ve been interested in art. My mom would send me to hobby art classes and I would spend hours sketching and painting. With college years and job pressures came a period when I didn’t make any art for almost 10 years. But I always felt this deep desire to do something creative. Finally, in 2016 I took a brief hiatus from work and picked up a cheap watercolor set. And there has been no looking back since.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Far from it. Self-doubt has been one of my biggest roadblocks. I have not had formal art training so I always felt that I was missing something crucial. Also, in the beginning, when one has just begun and is still trying to find their style, it can be hard to see other artists doing so well and creating such fabulous art.
The trick is to put your head down and keep working on your craft – all the self-doubt and insecurities will go away when you see your hard work paying off. But I will also add that I have been very privileged. I am financially secure and I have a very supportive family so I do not have to stress too much about the financial aspect of being an artist, which is something that many artists struggle with.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a botanical artist from India who is not afraid to get down in the dirt to find nature’s littlest treasures. Through my work, I strive to inhabit that space where art and science meet, where aesthetic beauty and knowledge combine.
I work mostly with colored pencils and graphite and in my work, I focus on subjects that are not only “beautiful” but also tell a fascinating story. I love learning about the flora of India and for the last year, I have been creating a body of work on common wildflowers. I am very passionate about this project and have big plans for it shortly.
What matters most to you?
Authenticity. I believe that to be truly happy with your work, you have to give voice to your most authentic self, even if that voice does not appeal to many. To be a good artist, you have to do what makes your heart sing and not bow down to the pressures and “trends” of the industry.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.prernadraws.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/prernadraws/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/prernadraws
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0fwWLQgUvKWfkIl7IbNmWg
