Behind the Brush: My Creative Process
Ever wondered how a blank canvas transforms into a divine portrait? I document every step of my creative journey here, from the first grid sketch to the final varnish.
Part 1 of my Shivratri painting series. This video shows me talking about the project and starting the initial sketch on a large 2x2 feet canvas using the grid method.
The very first step of my Shiv Parvati painting. I explain my process of creating a grid on the 18x14 inch canvas to ensure the proportions of the drawing are accurate.
Part 2 of the Shiv Parvati series, where I focus on completing the detailed pencil sketch. A strong foundation drawing is key to a successful painting.
In Part 3, the painting begins! I start with Lord Shiva's eyes, using different shades of blue to create depth and a divine look.
Part 4 shows the progress on Lord Shiva's face. I work in sections, blending shades of blue to build up the structure of his face and adding color to his lips.
Moving on to the background and hair in Part 5. I lay down a base coat of yellow for the background and black for the hair, which I will detail later.
In Part 6, I begin painting Maa Parvati's face. I use a different palette with warmer tones like vermilion, yellow, and pink to capture her gentle radiance.
Part 7 focuses on painting the neck, shoulders, and clothing. I apply base layers of paint that I will build upon with details and highlights in the next stage.
The final details come together in Part 8. I use my fingers to blend the background and add highlights to the hair and jewelry to make them pop.
The final reveal of the 8-part Shiv Parvati painting series! This video shows snippets of the process and the finished artwork in all its glory.
About Behind the Brush: My Creative Process
I rely heavily on the grid method for my large-scale deity paintings. It sounds technical, but it is the only way I can get the anatomy of eyes and expressions exactly right before touching my brushes. Once that foundation is solid, I build depth using layers of acrylics, waiting for each layer to dry completely before adding the finer details like jewelry ornaments or textures.
I believe art should have a soul, which is why I don't believe in printing. When you order a piece, whether it is a 10-inch mango wood slice or a 3.5-foot statement canvas, you are getting a journey. I start with a light pencil grid to ensure proportions are spot on, especially for the eyes of deities where even a millimeter makes a difference in expression.
For my acrylic works, I follow a dark-to-light technique. I start with deep base layers to establish shadows and volume, then gradually bring in the highlights. If you look closely at my work, you will see textures on jewelry or floral garlands. That is because I often use heavy-body paint or even add small stones and mirrors for that 3D bling effect.
My process is slow and intentional. Because I work in sections, I often spend days just on the face of a deity before moving to the background or clothes. If you are ordering a custom piece, keep in mind that I am hand-painting every stroke, not printing. This is why I usually require about 7 to 10 days for custom orders. I treat every canvas like it is for my own mandir. If you have a specific deity or concept in mind, let us talk about how to bring it to life on canvas.
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