An Interview with Ms. Neeti Parti

Ms. Neeti Parti

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

I was 4 years old. It was a hot summer day. My parents were resting while I was playing with paper and my color pencils. My mother called out to me to switch on the ceiling fan which I did instantly. I don’t know what came over me that moment but as soon as I sat down back again, I drew myself switching on the fan in the room. My parents couldn’t believe what I had drawn. That day I knew that I had a talent for Art!

Have you studied arts or obtained formal training in it?

I took some hobby classes during the summer vacation when I was in Grade 9. Other than that I have not learned Art. My paintbrush has been my guiding light.

Describe your art style.

I wish I could categorize my style. I experiment in whatever excites me. I have painted in oil, watercolors, and acrylic. I have done pencil sketches, painted in traditional art styles and still life. I have tried my hand at fabric colors. Recently I tried stained glass art. Presently I am trying my hand at cubism. The beauty of the world can be captured in so many ways….

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

I painted or sketched more or less continuously till Grade 10 when my paintings were noticed in an ‘Aakriti’ exhibition. Thereafter for reasons I find difficult to pinpoint, I did  not paint for the next 6 years. Then there was a creative spurt for a couple of years before life took over and the brush lay forgotten for decades. I found my creative urge back again 5 years ago. This time I hope to continue as long as I breathe.

What memorable responses have you had to your work?  

I have received a lot of appreciation as the years have gone by. My work has been praised by the press too. My memorable moments are those that are close to my heart. I began my schooling at St. Joseph’s Convent in Pathankot. My nursery class teacher, a nun saw the drawing I had made. I had drawn and colored a doll. She praised me and sent me around the whole school to show it in various classes. I received a lot of praise and encouragement. My most special and treasured moment has been my son commissioning me to paint for the living room of his new home!

What do you aim to achieve in the future? 

Art for me is a form of self-expression. As long as I can speak through my strokes my aim will continue to find a future. I will be grateful if I can find an audience to view my endeavors. In this context, I must appreciate the vision of Manoj Krishnan and the Asian Literary Society Arts and Craft in promoting creative talent.

Is there any specific area you now wish to explore?

I have never explored the Abstract Art form. I will challenge myself to convey my images in an abstract but relatable form one day soon.

What would you advise youngsters inclined towards the arts?

I would suggest the following:

-     Learn Art appreciation by familiarizing yourself with the Masters of various forms.

-     Know the famous artists and their works

-     Visit Art museums.

-     Explore your own way of  self-expression 

-     Be a self-critic. Constantly look for ways to improve yourself

Ms. Neeti Parti's Artworks