---
title: "Custom Portraits: Turn Your Photo into Hand-Painted Art - mytribe"
description: "Looking for unique commissioned art? Hire portrait artist Varun N Rao on Tribe to turn your favorite photo into a beautiful hand-painted portrait. The perfect personalized gift for any occasion. Get a quote today!"
canonical: https://mytribe.in/vartoons/custom-portraits
last_updated: 2025-09-04
---

# Custom Portraits in Bengaluru

By [Varun N Rao](https://mytribe.in/vartoons) · I turn your photos into custom portraits or caricatures in pencil, acrylic, digital, or on ceramic plates, and you can choose the style and details you want.

## Locations

Ships from Bengaluru across India

### Visit at

- Ships from Bengaluru (Bengaluru, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India)
- Delivered across India (India, India)

## Pricing guide (estimates)

These are indicative prices based on provider's past work. Enquire now to find out final quote.

### Digital Portrait or Caricature

High-resolution digital artwork hand-drawn on iPad, delivered electronically with a creation timelapse video.

Typically ₹2,000-4,000 Per Digital File (estimate)

#### Digital Deliverables
*   **High-Resolution File:** 300 DPI JPEG/PNG/PDF file suitable for printing on canvas, mugs, or t-shirts.
*   **Creation Video:** Includes a 15-30 second timelapse video showing the artistic process from sketch to final color.
*   **Delivery Mode:** Instant transfer via digital download link.

#### Artistic Scope
*   **Style Options:** Choice between Realistic Digital Oil Paint style or Exaggerated Fun Caricature style.
*   **Tools:** Hand-drawn using Apple Pencil and Procreate App.
*   **Revisions:** Includes 1-2 rounds of minor adjustments before final export.

### Hand-Drawn Color Pencil Portrait

Physical artwork drawn on A3 paper using Faber-Castell Polychromos pencils, ideal for 1-2 subjects.

Typically ₹3,500-6,000 Per Portrait (estimate)

#### Physical Artwork
*   **Dimensions:** A3 Size paper (approx. 11.7 x 16.5 inches).
*   **Medium:** Professional Grade Faber-Castell Polychromos Colored Pencils (Oil-based).
*   **Paper Quality:** 170 GSM to 200 GSM acid-free drawing paper with smooth grain.

#### Finish & Logistics
*   **Protection:** Coated with clear fixative spray to prevent smudging and fading.
*   **Subject:** Covers detailed rendering of 1 to 2 human subjects (Head & Shoulders).
*   **Packaging:** Shipped flat in reinforced hardboard or rolled in a secure tube depending on distance. Frames are not included.

### Hand-Painted Ceramic Plate

Decorative portrait painted directly on a Bone China or Porcelain plate using cured ceramic paints.

Typically ₹4,500-6,500 Per Plate (estimate)

#### Plate Specifications
*   **Base Material:** White Bone China or Porcelain plate.
*   **Size:** Standard dinner-sized plate (approx. 10-11 inches diameter).
*   **Medium:** Mont Marte Ceramic Paints designed for glazed surfaces.

#### Usage & Display
*   **Texture:** Glossy finish with visible brush strokes and slight 3D texture.
*   **Purpose:** Strictly for decorative display only; not food safe or dishwasher safe.
*   **Accessories:** Includes a basic plastic display stand or plate hook.

### Acrylic Painting on Canvas

Textured artwork on large stretched canvas using heavy body acrylics, including background composition.

Typically ₹9-14K Per Painting (estimate)

#### Canvas Specifications
*   **Surface:** Cotton canvas stretched over a wooden frame (Gallery wrap style with painted sides).
*   **Dimensions:** Standard large formats ranging from 18x24 inches to 24x30 inches.
*   **Medium:** Camlin Acrylic Paints (Heavy body, vibrant finish).

#### Art Details
*   **Composition:** Includes merging multiple reference photos to create a cohesive scene or background.
*   **Protection:** Sealed with gloss or matte varnish to protect against dust and UV light.
*   **Readiness:** Ready to hang as is or can be framed by the client.

## About Custom Portraits

### My Journey: Engineer Head, Artist Heart

I’m Varun, balancing my life between code and canvas. Art’s always been my escape — never got into art school, but I taught myself, bit by bit. It’s not perfect, and sometimes the lines go wonky, but that’s part of the charm.

### What I Do

I make custom portraits and caricatures. Real smiles, weird expressions, special moments — I try to catch those in every piece. My favorite thing? Seeing someone light up when they see themselves as art.

- Family, couple, pet, or tribute - if you’ve got a photo that means something to you, I’ll turn it into a keepsake.
- I work with color pencils, acrylics, digital tools, and even ceramic plates. Want your family as a cartoon or your dog in acrylic? I’m up for it.

### Pick Your Style

- Color pencil portraits for those tiny details (great for kids’ smiles or expressive eyes)
- Digital caricature artwork if you want something quirky or Insta-worthy
- Pet painting commissions to capture your furry buddy’s vibe
- Portraits on ceramic plates for something nobody else probably has

### How It Works

You send me your photo, we chat about style, and I get to work. I can mix things up — like blend photos or add something personal. I ship from Bangalore, but I’ve sent stuff to Germany, so distance isn’t a problem.

If you want art that feels personal and real, I’d love to work with you.

## Highlights

Browse through Varun N Rao's best work.

### [Featured](https://mytribe.in/vartoons/custom-portraits/featured)

- ![This is one of the most satisfying portraits I've had the joy of creating. Capturing the innocent smile and chubby cheeks of a baby with color pencils is a special process. I use high-quality Faber-Castell Polychromos pencils to bring out the soft textures and warm tones, creating a timeless keepsake for the family.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/eb4e9364-b8e2-4d76-a02f-57c240beab2f)
- ![Turning a family into a fun, sweet caricature is always a delight. This digital artwork was created on an iPad, imagining the family as ice cream cones to capture their fun-loving spirit. It's a perfect, quirky piece for a unique family portrait or a special gift.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/5c3dc157-33de-4f33-8198-446f502fd1bd)
- ![I had the wonderful opportunity to create these custom portraits for celebrity journalists Vir Sanghvi and Seema Goswami. What makes them unique is the medium: they are painted on bone china porcelain plates using special ceramic paints. This is a truly distinct way to display a portrait, turning it into a decorative masterpiece.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b2a1efc3-05a8-4467-8535-884461f80c60)
- [Video: Watch the process behind my digital tribute to the legendary Ratan Tata. This timelapse video shows how I build up layers, from the initial sketch to the final details, all hand-painted on an iPad using the Procreate app. It’s a look into how a digital portrait comes to life, stroke by stroke.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ab90bd1b-0eef-448c-b164-d2f596be523e)
- ![This painting holds a special story. The couple didn't have a wedding photo, so their family asked me to create one for them. Using old family photos for reference, I painted this acrylic portrait on canvas, imagining them in traditional wedding attire. It was a challenging and deeply rewarding project to bring a cherished memory to life.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d985296b-03c6-43cb-a55c-e77436d21ecc)
- ![Some artworks are just pure joy, like this one capturing the unmistakable bond between a person and their furry companion. This commissioned watercolor painting was created to celebrate that pure, unconditional love. I focus on capturing the emotion and connection that makes pet portraits so meaningful.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/407117e0-ba17-44cd-aca2-6124a531a3b2)
- ![I was incredibly honored to receive the first prize for my portrait painting at the Lalbagh Botanical Gardens flower show. This acrylic on canvas piece pays tribute to the late Dr. Rajkumar and Puneeth Rajkumar. Moments like these inspire me to keep pushing my creative boundaries.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6d001742-8ab1-4f1d-b7ff-98c5b982dbcd)
- [Video: Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at me working on a portrait with ceramic paints. Using a porcelain plate as my canvas is a unique process that requires a steady hand and different techniques than paper or canvas. It's a medium I've grown to love for the beautiful, glossy finish it produces.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9658535c-f303-4087-bf48-bce2e0d47451)

### [Color Pencil Portraits](https://mytribe.in/vartoons/custom-portraits/color-pencil-portraits)

- ![A beautiful family portrait is a treasure. I created this piece using color pencils to capture the distinct personalities and the connection between them. It’s a wonderful way to freeze a moment in time for your family.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e6eaddea-3ef3-4be9-9146-23438df3d2f5)
- ![Here you can see a finished baby portrait alongside the tools of my trade. The rich pigments of the Polychromos pencils allow for deep layering to achieve that soft, lifelike skin tone. It’s a delicate process that brings so much joy.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/da98e993-be1a-4a80-8e63-77e23816fa14)
- ![A commissioned color pencil portrait on A3 paper. I focused on capturing her bright smile and the soft waves of her hair, using careful layering to create depth and realism. These individual portraits make for very personal and heartfelt gifts.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c8c5dbde-6788-4524-afb7-5fc66e3df218)
- ![This commissioned portrait of former Indian badminton player Pullela Gopichand was my first artwork after an eye surgery, making it very special to me. Created with color pencils, it was a joy to work on this piece for an event at Walmart Global Tech India.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/247e11d9-28a0-4b63-a7d9-6a3df0647302)
- ![It was a proud moment to present my finished color pencil portrait to the man himself, Pullela Gopichand. Seeing a client's reaction to their portrait is the best part of my job.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/94ead0b2-d419-4b00-afaf-5c94677bbd88)
- ![This is a close-up of a portrait from my series dedicated to my nephews and nieces. Using color pencils allows me to focus on the subtle expressions of children, creating a piece that the family can cherish as they grow.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/91d0f9b7-5ccd-4757-b3aa-854d9d1f7f5f)
- ![A happy moment seeing my nephew holding his finished portrait. Creating art for family is always extra special, and it’s wonderful to see the final piece framed and ready to be displayed.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6840c21d-3016-4583-97ea-d13f4380f3c5)

### [Digital Caricatures & Portraits](https://mytribe.in/vartoons/custom-portraits/digital-caricatures-portraits)

- [Video: Watch how a fun family caricature comes together from a simple sketch to a fully colored artwork. This timelapse video shows the process of creating the "ice cream cone" family caricature, highlighting each step in Procreate on the iPad.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/55931b48-bacd-4744-b958-2c6c03e7db3c)
- ![A custom digital caricature created as a wedding gift for a lovely couple. They are pictured with their car against a beach backdrop, making it a personalized and memorable piece of art that celebrates their journey together.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9bfcdf45-2340-4967-9fe0-3a6b58dc87f1)
- ![This family caricature was a special request, created for my sister and brother-in-law whom I met after 12 years. It includes their beloved pets, a cat named Little Bit and a dog named Peanut, showing that our furry friends are family too.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/258b57b8-65ce-4b09-9801-fe84765fff28)
- ![A fun and lighthearted digital caricature created for a friend. These artworks are all about capturing a person's personality with a touch of humor. "Sabko Milega Aashirwad!"](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/1da5f0c6-bf12-4fc8-af7a-aea7f469d8af)

### [Acrylic & Canvas Paintings](https://mytribe.in/vartoons/custom-portraits/acrylic-canvas-paintings)

- ![This acrylic portrait of my nephew Vishakh was a labor of love. After taking a break for an eye surgery, I came back to it and repainted the face to get it just right. The vibrant colors and smooth blending are achievable with acrylics on a stretched canvas.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c53ac842-8f5c-4442-8d94-4d1785320bcb)
- [Video: A quick reveal of the finished acrylic baby portrait. This video zooms out to show the full painting on the easel, giving a sense of its scale and the fine details that went into creating this lifelike piece.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/92392b8c-6a3d-4b71-a377-26917b0a5185)
- ![My award-winning acrylic portrait of the beloved Kannada actors, the late Dr. Rajkumar and his son, the late Puneeth Rajkumar. This painting was a tribute to their legacy and I was honored that it won first prize in a competition at the Lalbagh flower show.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/089589ef-b6cc-4f69-98e4-0546ce57de72)
- ![Here I am, adding the final touches to the double portrait of Dr. Rajkumar and Puneeth Rajkumar. Working on a large canvas with acrylics allows for building up layers to create realistic skin tones and expressions.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/3ed9fd29-903b-4bdd-ac9b-199356d0e740)
- ![This is my acrylic painting of Nada Prabhu Kempegowda, the founder of Bengaluru, created during a live art event. The monochrome figure against the vibrant yellow and red of the Karnataka flag creates a powerful contrast.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/bebcbc1c-22de-45c3-985c-a90ae77c68c2)
- ![Posing with my finished painting of Kempegowda at the "Art in the Park" event. It was an honor to paint such an important historical figure and share the experience with fellow art lovers.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/504a98ed-d6c0-4355-b488-26b2047157e3)

### [Unique Keepsakes: Portraits on Ceramic Plates](https://mytribe.in/vartoons/custom-portraits/unique-keepsakes-portraits-on-ceramic-plates)

- ![A close-up of the ceramic plate portrait of celebrity journalist Vir Sanghvi. Painting on this smooth, non-porous surface is a different challenge, but the result is a vibrant, glossy finish that is truly unique. This was part of a special commission for ITC Gardenia.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/914da8be-5360-45db-a180-7b56aa75f765)
- ![The companion piece, a ceramic plate portrait of author and journalist Seema Goswami. The colors are vivid and the details are sharp, creating a beautiful and unconventional piece of art that can be displayed on an easel.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/58e455b0-8d0c-47a6-bf8b-2b80d4a26c26)

### [Pen & Ink Caricatures](https://mytribe.in/vartoons/custom-portraits/pen-ink-caricatures)

- ![This commissioned caricature was drawn with color pens on A3 paper. The cross-hatching technique adds a lot of texture and personality. Adding a small detail like the Eiffel Tower makes it even more personal for the client.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e096cddd-efd1-4853-af29-e7faeb240024)
- ![A happy client with his framed caricature. It’s always wonderful to see the final artwork ready to be gifted or displayed. These custom caricatures are a fun way to celebrate someone's personality and interests.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/83028bab-b1ad-4cd1-896e-597adeca8d89)
- ![Part of a series I created for a company that was rewarding its employees. This caricature celebrates "The Office Einstein," using a theme that reflects the person's strengths at work. It's a fun and creative way to show appreciation.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b7142398-a816-4fce-ae47-730c88dfd798)
- ![Another piece from the corporate caricature series, this one for "The Helper." The "Mai Hoon Na" t-shirt adds a fun, cinematic touch. These themed caricatures are a great way to boost team morale.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/bc3324b2-3fc9-4fbe-b944-d39cae84073a)
- ![For "The Hungry Hippo" of the office, this caricature was all about fun and food. These personalized artworks are always a hit because they capture a unique and relatable trait of the individual.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/5fc3e826-61ec-4eac-bc37-8a84f0a96a70)
- ![The "Workaholic" caricature, complete with multiple arms for multitasking. This style is created with pens and brush pens, which allows for both fine lines and bold color fills.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6f581dc7-cbc2-4019-afc8-83daaf349ebf)
- ![A "King Bee" caricature, celebrating a team leader. The theme is built around the person's role, making it a very specific and thoughtful piece of art.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/cc5047cb-bb19-4ca5-ac5f-be59a2758acf)
- ![The "Joker" of the group, this caricature is all about bringing fun and laughter. The bright colors and playful theme were a joy to create using my signature pen and ink style.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/018ce951-7f3b-4fc2-b980-71faa5974053)
- ![A "Mad Max" themed caricature, created for an employee as part of a corporate rewards program. It's always fun to blend a person's likeness with a pop culture character to create something truly unique.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/3fffa70a-165f-4c63-8f68-813161cda334)

### [Tribute Art](https://mytribe.in/vartoons/custom-portraits/tribute-art)

- ![As an artist, this is the small tribute I can pay to a man who inspired millions in India and beyond. This digital portrait of Ratan Tata was created with a sense of immense respect for his contributions as a businessman and humanitarian.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/26e3b02b-4cd7-4de7-9f8a-24b8eb9734d8)
- ![Growing up in the 90s, the "Wah Taj!" ad featuring Ustad Zakir Hussain was iconic. This digital sketch is my small tribute to the legendary tabla maestro, an artist who brought Indian classical music to the world stage.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a5950ad3-42ea-45e2-ae77-31e1381cb768)
- ![My acrylic painting of Nada Prabhu Kempegowda, the founder of Bengaluru. It was an honor to paint him against the backdrop of the Karnataka flag during a live art event, paying tribute to the visionary behind my city.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/bebcbc1c-22de-45c3-985c-a90ae77c68c2)
- ![This award-winning acrylic portrait is my tribute to two legends of Kannada cinema, Dr. Rajkumar and Puneeth Rajkumar. It was an emotional piece to create, and I'm grateful it resonated with so many people.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/089589ef-b6cc-4f69-98e4-0546ce57de72)

### [My Journey as an Artist](https://mytribe.in/vartoons/custom-portraits/my-journey-as-an-artist)

- [Video: A fun rapid-fire Q&A session where I share a little more about my art and inspirations. From my favorite medium to my dream exhibition location, get to know the artist behind the canvas.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/7922581f-3eff-4454-98aa-1e36d8fe9fab)
- [Video: Join me for a quick tour of my exhibition stall. I walk you through some of my displayed works, including my candlelight series, portraits, and caricatures, and explain the stories behind them.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ede117c6-221d-49ed-aa4d-9c88d8b4dac2)
- [Video: I was so humbled by these kind words from Jija Hari Singh, the founder trustee of Artmantram, who introduced me as the "Artist of the Week." Her encouragement to pursue my passion full-time means the world to me.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/7454a9b0-bf89-49da-af05-d9d117cd24b0)
- ![I celebrated my 40th birthday by participating in a 3-day art camp at Wayanad. Here I am giving a live portrait demo. It was an unforgettable experience of learning, sharing, and connecting with fellow artists.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ad22bee0-3a24-4fda-b079-3c8f57a05b59)
- ![A shot of me doing a live painting at an art showcase at ITC Gardenia. I love painting in front of an audience, as it allows people to see the creative process unfold and connect with the art on a deeper level.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ee35c974-6540-47ad-b3d9-8616c2d9b922)
- ![One of the best moments from the Chitra Santhe art festival. This young art lover picked up a portrait of his favorite cricketer. Seeing the joy on a client's face, no matter their age, is the greatest reward.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b4223ea7-6a03-44e1-bccf-f76af4489d48)
- ![Here I am at my stall during Chitra Santhe, Bangalore's biggest street art festival. It's an amazing day where thousands of art lovers come out to support artists. My stall features a wide range of my work, from paintings to framed portraits.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/56590f63-ff61-4ed7-a8e2-460ccfc9b0ff)
- ![Interacting with visitors at my Chitra Santhe stall. I love discussing my techniques and the stories behind my paintings. These conversations are a huge source of inspiration and connection.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/276eccf2-9741-4bf5-b519-9762f3de4f72)
- ![I had a wonderful opportunity to exhibit my work at my apartment's clubhouse during a festival. The response from my neighbors, both young and old, was incredibly humbling and encouraging.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e07c30cb-7fb4-4244-81fd-99b4370d6b95)
- ![Visitors admiring my candlelight painting series at a group art exhibition. It's always fascinating to see which pieces draw people in and to hear their interpretations of the art.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/186f5efd-55dc-452a-b7d9-a907204f15fd)
- ![A wall of my artworks displayed at the Bengaluru Art Gallery. Seeing my paintings, including the Buddha and candlelight series, hanging in a professional gallery space is always a proud moment.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9f368594-a6d9-4a4c-a3c9-750c08414139)
- ![A collection of my tribute paintings to Puneeth Rajkumar, displayed together. After winning the competition, it was special to see all my works honoring him arranged in one place.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/1669fd39-03a7-4916-abd7-10a7ea68e35f)
- ![Celebrating Teacher's Day with the faculty of the College of Fine Arts. As a self-taught artist, I deeply value the guidance and knowledge that formal teachers provide, and it was an honor to felicitate them.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/4a38de41-3b69-43a3-87d6-a09fb8be6170)
- ![With a fellow artist and friend at a group exhibition. The art community is so supportive, and it's always great to see friends and colleagues at these events.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/575db623-424d-473b-badf-4ec653aa611d)
- ![With a visitor at the Art in the Park event in Lalbagh, standing next to my painting of Nada Prabhu Kempegowda. Public art events are a fantastic way to make art accessible to everyone.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9ab5fece-be15-410d-9fd7-5d8912003941)
- ![A happy moment with a visitor at a group art exhibition at Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath. I am so grateful for everyone who comes out to support local artists.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6a9c12e2-8b9a-4567-9b92-637869e69f87)
- ![My wife Anugya at our Chitra Santhe stall. She is my biggest supporter, and she even sold her first abstract painting at this event, which was the highlight of our day.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/7b0fb99d-db58-4f05-9b7e-303547d5a430)
- ![Posing with my paintings at the ITC Gardenia art showcase. Displaying my work in such a beautiful venue was a fantastic experience.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2803e094-7d1c-4985-91d0-b1dc4326fad0)
- ![A wider view of my exhibition setup at ITC Gardenia. I always try to arrange my work to tell a visual story, grouping different series like my portraits and candlelight paintings together.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/1bce34de-834e-4d82-806a-02c29db0ae15)
- ![My wall at a group art exhibition at Rangoli Metro Art Centre. It's a great feeling to see a collection of my work, with its varied themes and styles, displayed for the public.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/44f4808f-4ba0-4659-a299-5fd2332d6d67)
- ![With my family at one of my exhibitions. Their support is my foundation, and having them there to see my work means everything.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e729e665-3324-4d6e-8c73-50712b9913e2)
- ![A proud moment, standing next to my displayed artworks. The red "Kala Kranti" (Art Revolution) t-shirt says it all.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6c253c1a-3485-456b-bf20-58eaa86a0c2f)
- ![My candlelight series paintings hanging at an exhibition at Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath. The dramatic lighting of the gallery really enhances the play of light and shadow in these pieces.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/00984f09-2c58-4afe-927e-3876e711f6c3)
- ![With a group of friends and fellow art lovers at an exhibition. It's always great to share these moments with people who appreciate the arts.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2e9c3223-b446-4be2-9be1-657b1470b268)
- ![Visitors browsing the artworks at my stall during the bustling Chitra Santhe event. The energy of the crowd is infectious.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/3fbdfc99-2497-43e8-a822-fed4aa7bca2b)
- ![Discussing my art with visitors at my local apartment exhibition. It was a great chance to connect with my community on a personal level.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ed7e980f-0f92-4ae0-b594-be31884ba38b)
- ![Taking a selfie with friends who came to support my exhibition. It's always a joy to see familiar faces in the crowd.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/1e7783a4-9e23-49a3-8e7f-dfeccd05ee93)
- ![Connecting with another artist at the Rangoli Metro Art Centre exhibition. Sharing experiences and feedback with peers is an invaluable part of growing as an artist.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/f7f1329b-8984-4e36-8412-1ac3f7649304)
- ![More happy faces at my exhibition. I'm so grateful for the friends who show up to support my passion.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ee245f3d-69e0-4a39-8f32-06d664088949)
- ![A group of attendees discussing one of my paintings. I love seeing people engage with the art and share their thoughts with each other.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/73893bfe-8459-4c51-8c0d-63e29705f715)
- ![With visitors at the Indian Music Therapy Association conference exhibition. It was interesting to see how visual art and music therapy can intersect.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e4f4b758-6289-43bc-96e9-46a38b9fadd7)
- ![Chatting with a guest at my apartment clubhouse exhibition. It's a more intimate setting that allows for great conversations about the art.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/33844bd9-f93e-4a65-997c-3f0ea8f8fa58)
- ![The full setup of my exhibition at the Ganesha Festival cultural event. I displayed a wide variety of my life's work, from portraits and caricatures to my more recent paintings.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ff1ff6df-c55f-495f-ba36-d38c5a81faab)
- ![Posing with a staff member at the ITC Gardenia showcase. The entire team was so supportive and helped make the event a success.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9553ace5-31db-4e19-80d2-4d22629648ac)
- ![With another guest at the ITC Gardenia event. It was a wonderful evening of art, music, and cuisine.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/1a946bb9-16ae-4156-8d11-8ed32f07cdaa)
- ![Another view of my art display at the beautiful ITC Gardenia. The ambiance of the venue really complemented the artworks.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/7bf96d2e-c640-4500-9484-f10c2adf9258)
- ![Grateful for all the people who came out to support the art showcase. Every conversation and word of encouragement is deeply appreciated.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/33715906-b613-4c48-a6f7-188c7624f2b4)
- ![A happy client with his framed caricature. It’s always wonderful to see the final artwork ready to be gifted or displayed. These custom caricatures are a fun way to celebrate someone's personality and interests.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c2917dd7-efef-42cd-94b3-dfe0b5f0c16f)
- ![This commissioned caricature was drawn with color pens on A3 paper. The cross-hatching technique adds a lot of texture and personality. Adding a small detail like the Eiffel Tower makes it even more personal for the client.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/aa2c02b5-827d-433e-bbfa-c31ca3b95b11)
- ![My wall at a group art exhibition at Rangoli Metro Art Centre. It's a great feeling to see a collection of my work, with its varied themes and styles, displayed for the public.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/320e35a0-df9e-44d1-8f31-26106c2917d3)
- ![With my family at one of my exhibitions. Their support is my foundation, and having them there to see my work means everything.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/33b4f10e-b1e2-4f72-8811-e6eb32a4bea9)
- ![Taking a selfie with friends who came to support my exhibition. It's always a joy to see familiar faces in the crowd.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/02fd6f6b-ced9-429d-863a-c7951ccf13e8)
- ![More happy faces at my exhibition. I'm so grateful for the friends who show up to support my passion.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/07ed3475-d9da-4351-9d29-f810980ce187)
- ![A proud moment, standing next to my displayed artworks. The red "Kala Kranti" (Art Revolution) t-shirt says it all.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/06622b9a-9a8c-4014-bc8e-b03b36c2864a)
- ![This is my acrylic painting of Nada Prabhu Kempegowda, the founder of Bengaluru, created during a live art event. The monochrome figure against the vibrant yellow and red of the Karnataka flag creates a powerful contrast.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/20124fd8-e80d-422b-81ad-945158b41ee0)
- ![My Kempegowda painting displayed alongside other artworks at the Art in the Park event.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/3f84c107-6ede-4ab4-8b1b-32dbb225ff49)
- ![Posing with my finished painting of Kempegowda at the "Art in the Park" event. It was an honor to paint such an important historical figure and share the experience with fellow art lovers.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/94b86998-0f8e-4617-80ab-9050a7c5dc11)
- ![With a visitor at the Art in the Park event in Lalbagh, standing next to my painting of Nada Prabhu Kempegowda. Public art events are a fantastic way to make art accessible to everyone.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/7a0b1a58-5b78-4c1f-a062-8917257181ab)
- ![My Kempegowda painting displayed alongside other artworks at the Art in the Park event.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/05c9470b-db2d-40c1-a91a-61d4ff832bf1)
- ![My candlelight series paintings hanging at an exhibition at Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath. The dramatic lighting of the gallery really enhances the play of light and shadow in these pieces.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/10e45ab5-b9ed-4f59-85b9-2c7bf517daa7)
- ![With a group of friends and fellow art lovers at an exhibition. It's always great to share these moments with people who appreciate the arts.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/97b13eac-bcab-4e65-9e71-79217f8a3c65)
- ![A group of attendees discussing one of my paintings. I love seeing people engage with the art and share their thoughts with each other.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d3f0f945-0e62-4db0-9251-0f7aa1f71c0c)
- ![It was a proud moment to present my finished color pencil portrait to the man himself, Pullela Gopichand. Seeing a client's reaction to their portrait is the best part of my job.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ff3e07d4-86ee-41b2-b130-d2b19e9c37bd)
- ![This commissioned portrait of former Indian badminton player Pullela Gopichand was my first artwork after an eye surgery, making it very special to me. Created with color pencils, it was a joy to work on this piece for an event at Walmart Global Tech India.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/52530881-642a-42cb-9189-ec492e0f3a40)
- ![A happy moment seeing my nephew holding his finished portrait. Creating art for family is always extra special, and it’s wonderful to see the final piece framed and ready to be displayed.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d10e7d6c-3279-459b-8819-c2f143c834f2)
- ![This is a close-up of a portrait from my series dedicated to my nephews and nieces. Using color pencils allows me to focus on the subtle expressions of children, creating a piece that the family can cherish as they grow.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9afcc95e-70d2-4410-9112-66b344bbc896)
- ![Part of a series I created for a company that was rewarding its employees. This caricature celebrates "The Office Einstein," using a theme that reflects the person's strengths at work. It's a fun and creative way to show appreciation.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/09d8f019-1aba-4297-8231-154f5858c5f5)
- ![For "The Hungry Hippo" of the office, this caricature was all about fun and food. These personalized artworks are always a hit because they capture a unique and relatable trait of the individual.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/5675b8ae-e177-4861-9916-446de1d134f3)
- ![A "Mad Max" themed caricature, created for an employee as part of a corporate rewards program. It's always fun to blend a person's likeness with a pop culture character to create something truly unique.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/4fa2edb8-8b67-44d8-b978-435f5051097a)
- ![Another piece from the corporate caricature series, this one for "The Helper." The "Mai Hoon Na" t-shirt adds a fun, cinematic touch. These themed caricatures are a great way to boost team morale.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/4da85aaf-bf64-4df9-ad89-ffa66da8ffba)
- ![The "Joker" of the group, this caricature is all about bringing fun and laughter. The bright colors and playful theme were a joy to create using my signature pen and ink style.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/4c01620f-6c69-4fff-89b6-730b350c019e)
- ![A "King Bee" caricature, celebrating a team leader. The theme is built around the person's role, making it a very specific and thoughtful piece of art.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/07beac18-98ee-40e1-8687-ff80cadbb3ec)
- ![Visitors at my Chitra Santhe stall. The sheer volume of people and the vibrant atmosphere make it a day to remember every year.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/3f8f92b5-3d58-48a3-8ff9-8aad850f9e2d)
- ![Here I am at my stall during Chitra Santhe, Bangalore's biggest street art festival. It's an amazing day where thousands of art lovers come out to support artists. My stall features a wide range of my work, from paintings to framed portraits.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2fd6c250-0da5-4dcb-9b4e-2659292db06a)
- ![Interacting with visitors at my Chitra Santhe stall. I love discussing my techniques and the stories behind my paintings. These conversations are a huge source of inspiration and connection.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e72a4dea-9ed9-4689-86bb-add472dc88bb)
- ![Visitors browsing the artworks at my stall during the bustling Chitra Santhe event. The energy of the crowd is infectious.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/f2f613c3-7ac7-40a6-8707-2ba9e2c47d21)
- ![Visitors at my Chitra Santhe stall. The sheer volume of people and the vibrant atmosphere make it a day to remember every year.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/78ec33d8-d4ee-4957-b6d0-03cf0458e89d)
- ![My wife Anugya at our Chitra Santhe stall. She is my biggest supporter, and she even sold her first abstract painting at this event, which was the highlight of our day.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/7313ac93-983b-4397-abb8-1224d9a84a86)
- ![The younger generation of art enthusiasts checking out my work at the apartment exhibition. I hope to inspire them to pick up a pencil or a brush.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/3dac8d3c-bef4-4734-a6d3-247ea0d94b63)

## Meet your expert

[Varun N Rao](https://mytribe.in/vartoons)

### My story

Hey, I’m Varun. Engineer by degree, artist by heart. Missed JJ School, but never dropped the pencil. I started out sketching cars, now I’m deep into portraits and wild with colours. Raja Ravi Varma’s work hits home for me. I get my kicks from painting, heavy metal gigs (my neck still hurts), and seeing my art in print—especially the book I illustrated for my wife. Making people smile through my art? That’s the real win.

### My work

- **Custom Portraits & Art**: I make pencil portraits, colour pencil portraits, acrylic paintings, digital art, caricatures, and oil paintings.
- **Story-Driven Commissions**: I love projects with a story - like piecing together old wedding portraits or capturing family memories.
- **Portraits & Caricatures**: Light, shadow, and personality. I do everything from realistic portraits to fun digital caricature art.
- **Book Illustration Artist**: I illustrate for books too, bringing stories to life with line drawings and colour.

## More services from Varun N Rao

- [Digital Art & Illustration](https://mytribe.in/vartoons/digital-art-illustration) · ₹1,000-7,000 per artwork (estimate)
- [Custom Paintings](https://mytribe.in/vartoons/custom-paintings) · ₹1,500-4,000 per sq ft (estimate)

## Book

To book Varun N Rao, message mytribe on WhatsApp: [Chat on WhatsApp](https://wa.me/916360004054?text=Hi%2C%20I'm%20looking%20for%20Custom%20Portraits%20by%20Varun%20N%20Rao.)
