My Art, My Meditation: Finding Calm Through Creativity
Art is not just about the final result; it is my way to find stillness. Come explore how I use sketching and painting to connect with myself.
I love the timeless combination of black, white, and a little bit of red. This video shows me working on a monochrome drawing, adding just a pop of color to bring it to life. It is a simple palette that holds so much power.
A little dose of art for myself. I believe in practicing regularly, as it takes me to a meditative state where I lose all track of time. Portrait is my favorite subject, and the time spent creating is always precious.
On Sundays, I love to fill my free time with painting. It helps my mind relax and brings such vibrant colors to my day. This is a throwback to a watercolor portrait I enjoyed working on.
Learning to draw a portrait is a very interesting process. This video shows how I use sketching and charcoal to build up the features of a face. Every face has unique lines and emotions to capture.
To create a good charcoal artwork, you need the right tools. Here I am showing the use of willow charcoal, a charcoal pencil, and a paper stump for blending. These simple tools help create beautiful and soft shading.
Being creative is not just a hobby for me, it is a way of life. I started teaching art in 1988, and my own art studio has become a place where imagination can take flight. It is a blessing to have my profession also be my passion.
About My Art, My Meditation
I often find that picking up a piece of charcoal or a brush allows the noise of the day to simply fade away. It is never about creating a perfect portrait, but rather about the flow of movement and the emotion that emerges on the paper. You do not need to be an artist to begin this; you just need to be willing to sit with your colors and let them guide you.
When I started my journey in 1988, I realized that art is a powerful mirror. It shows us who we are when we stop rushing for perfection. My studio in Vile Parle is not just a place for learning; it is a space for quiet reflection.
Why Art as Meditation?
Many of my students come to me carrying stress from exams, work, or daily life. I tell them the same thing I tell myself: chinta mat karo (don't worry). When you focus on the texture of charcoal on paper or the blending of watercolors, your brain shifts. The pressure to produce a masterpiece disappears, replaced by the joy of simply creating.
My Process
My personal practice involves exploring the basics that I teach. I love the classic trio of black, white, and red. Whether I am teaching a beginner how to hold willow charcoal or guiding a student through portrait sketching, the focus remains on the process.
- Charcoal Work: We use paper stumps and soft erasers to build depth in features, learning to see the unique lines in every face.
- Watercolor: I find watercolor portraits to be a beautiful way to express emotion. It requires patience, which in itself is a form of meditation.
This is not about becoming a professional painter overnight. It is about allowing yourself the space to breathe, laugh, and find your own voice through your colors. Whether you are prepping for a portfolio or just looking for a way to unwind after a long week, you are welcome here.
Looking for a specific art experience?
Tell us what you want to learn or create.
More from Art Exam & Portfolio Preparation by Shefali Raj
More services by Shefali Raj