Latest news with #WorldArtDubai2024
The Hindu
08-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Hindu
Artist Amrish Malvankar and the constant state of becoming
Being part of an international event always brings a sense of validation, no matter how nonchalant or jaded one may profess to be. For Bengaluru-based artist Amrish Malvankar, who exhibited his works for the second time at the recently concluded World Art Fair in Dubai, the experience was nothing less than self affirming. The artist says he 'always had an inclination to paint,' but since his family frowned on it as a career choice, he 'took up the next best option — architecture.' However, he continued to paint and his artworks piled up at his residence, until one day his wife Tarunjeet encouraged him to hold an exhibition. In 2009, he held his first show at the Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath, and there has been no looking back since. Amrish quit his job and took up the palette on a full-time basis. 'I generally work on compositional abstracts,' says Amrish. 'I experiment with colours, how each hue balances with another and how they play with human psychology. I started working with abstract figuratives in 2023.' The high appreciation his work garnered at the World Art Fair in Dubai last year, encouraged Amrish to continue with his artistic explorations, and in the current series, he has made a foray into cubism. 'My main medium is always acrylic, but I also use other material such as charcoal and its powder as well oil pastels and pigments, to fine tune and balance out a piece.' Also read: Check out these Indian artists showcasing their work at World Art Dubai 2024 Talking about his process, Amrish says, 'Architects are taught to be observant and architecture brings a discipline to your design and thought process. Whenever I see an interesting play of colours, such as in a sunset, I lay out all my paints and mix them on canvas, trying to capture them as best as I can.' He adds that those are the initial steps and he keeps working on a piece, refining it as it evolves, till he feels it is finally complete. The self-taught artist says one of things he enjoys the most at his shows are the observations of children. 'What they see in a work of art is something I would never have thought of. They have an amazing perspective, a fantastic imagination and the confidence to voice what they see.' 'I would love to paint a circle and a stick and have the confidence of a child to say it is a tree. I enjoy my interactions with them and always find them encouraging.'
Gulf Today
28-01-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Salwa Saleem's art flowers with roots in architecture and stems in painting
Visual artist and architect Salwa Saleem says she has a 'passion for creating meaningful Islamic art that blends faith, culture, and creativity.' She walks the talk, because her work focuses on paintings that highlight the beauty of Quranic verses, with intricate calligraphy touched by architectural elements. She works in acrylic, water colour and mixed media. 'As an architect, I draw inspiration from the elegance and depth of Islamic architecture, infusing those influences into my art to create pieces that are both spiritually uplifting and visually captivating,' she says. She is drawn to the beauty of Islamic architecture, its intricate patterns, arches, and the meaning behind each detail. 'Translating that into my paintings is a joy like no other,' Salwa says. 'It's where my two passions (architecture and painting) meet, and I get to share the elegance and stories that architecture carries, through my art.' She has worked on bespoke commissions for clients across the globe; she has sold over 100+ paintings worldwide to buyers in countries like Singapore, Norway, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Denmark, Italy, Australia, Germany, Canada, USA, France, Netherlands, Belgium and UK. She is a regular participant in exhibitions that celebrate cultural and artistic heritage, like World Art Dubai 2024 and Rang 2025 by Funun Arts, Dubai. She has collaborated with charitable organisations, using her work to contribute to causes 'that bring small yet meaningful change.' This includes a venture with MATW in 2024 to raise funds for Palestine by auctioning art via Instagram and the donation of a painting for a charity event at Hunter College, New York City. 'Knowing that my work can have even a little impact gives me a sense of purpose,' Salwa says. 'Art, to me, is about more than just what's on the canvas. It's about connecting people to faith, beauty, and the idea that even small acts of creativity can bring a little bit of change to the world.' 'How many of us can truly say that we have an opportunity to pursue our passions?' asks Million Fikre, UN officer. 'When we have discovered our passions, they are often self-centered in nature, placing ourselves at the centre of the universe. There are, however, a determined few that make this opportunity — following your passion is a proactive measure! ... Art is nothing if not passion.' Salwa Saleem speaks about her work Why does painting draw you, since you studied architecture? Painting has been my passion since childhood. I've been creating art for as long as I can remember, and it's always been my way of expressing myself. Studying architecture deepened my understanding of design, form, and balance; painting gives me the freedom to convey emotions and stories without constraints. It's where my heart truly lies, and it allows me to connect with people on a deeper, more personal level. What is the quality that makes a subject fit for your canvas? A subject must evoke a strong emotional or cultural connection. I'm drawn to themes that tell a story, whether it's spiritual, architectural, or inspired by nature. It's the potential to create depth, meaning, and beauty that makes it worthy of my canvas. How do you find your inspiration? Inspiration comes from everywhere, travelling to places and admiring vibrant cultures, or reflecting on my spiritual practices. My emotions, the stories people share, and the beauty of everyday life, all serve as Muse. How does a religious text like the Quran be a subject for art? The Quran is a profound source of inspiration, filled with beauty, guidance, and depth. Through calligraphy and abstract forms, I aim to honour its sacredness, while creating art that resonates spiritually with others. What do you find in calligraphy? Calligraphy is both an art and a meditation. It transforms words into visual poetry, merging meaning and form. I find joy in weaving intricate letters with modern designs, celebrating both tradition and creativity. Can you tell us about your work for charity, especially how you assisted Palestine as an artist? My art is a medium to give back. I've contributed paintings to auctions and exhibitions that raise funds for causes like Palestine. It's fulfilling to use my creativity to support people in need and amplify their voices through art. How do you market your work for commissions, for example? I share my journey on platforms like Instagram (@handsofsalwa), where I post videos, tutorials, and completed works. Engaging with followers through stories, updates and responding to messages, also builds trust and relationships with potential clients. How has taking part in exhibitions such as World Art Dubai and Funun Arts helped you as an artist? Exhibitions connect me to a global audience, allowing me to showcase my work and learn from other artists. They've expanded my network, brought commissions, and boosted my confidence as an artist. Do you find it difficult to switch between the Indian and Emirati art worlds? It can be challenging, but is enriching. India's art world is steeped in tradition and diversity, while the Emirati scene embraces innovation and global influences. Switching between the two keeps my work versatile and culturally rooted. How does art connect people? Art transcends language and borders. It evokes shared emotions, tells stories, and sparks conversations. Whether through a painting of a familiar place or the universal beauty of calligraphy, art unites people by reminding them of what they have in common.
