An Interview with Ms. Vidya Shankar

Ms. Vidya Shankar

Who or what inspired you to embark on your own journey in the world of arts?

I had an innate interest in arts even as a child, which was recognized by my family as well as my teachers in school. With adulthood and its pressures, my art was all forgotten and only memories remained. I got back to art when I was on the recovery mode from depression.

Have you studied arts or obtained formal training in it?

No, but recently I attended a brief mandala workshop and a two-week online art camp.

Describe your art style.

Mandalas and zentangles are what I am into now. I like to use pens for my art.

For how many years have you practiced your art, and have you had to overcome any hurdles on the way?

Though I learned to make a mandala in late December 2018, it was only by mid-2019 that I began my journey. I have not had any hurdles. Challenges maybe, but not hurdles.

What memorable responses have you had to your work?  

I have received several requests asking me to take classes in mandala art forms.

What do you aim to achieve in the future? 

Mandalas, and now, zentangles, are not just art forms. They have a specific purpose which remains largely forgotten. I have included some of my mandalas and zentangles in my book, ‘The Rise of Yogamaya’. They serve a purpose in that book. I wish to explore that part of mandalas and entangled.

 Is there any specific area you now wish to explore?

As of now, I have been using only pens, and very recently have been experimenting with watercolors. I want to learn to use other mediums and discover what art lies dormant within me.

What would you advise youngsters inclined towards the arts? 

We are all artists in a way. Well, some are better than the others. Don’t compare yourself with others. Make art the way your heart tells you to.

Ms. Vidya Shankar's Artworks