Sanjay Soni- I just want to say that take art as a meditation, not as work (Artist from India)

No doubt meditation has helped me a lot. I tried to meditate and the relief and relaxation I got from it, I just wanted to get that on canvas, so that I can give positive vibes to others as well.

Tell us more about your background and journey.

I am from a non-artist family. I was not interested in studies since childhood, but have a keen interest in art. I believe that this is god gifted. My family always supported me in this field.

Till now, I have done 25 solo shows, 600 group shows,25 art camps.

In 2008, I joined an NGO (Khushi). Through this NGO, my work got auctioned in Christie

I have got national prizes in 2013 and 2015 and international prizes in 2016.

When did you decide you wanted to be an artist?

When I was in 10th standard, I visited a banner studio, where banners for films are made.

In summer vacations, I went there and liked the work and the environment. I learned a lot there. Within a year, I become the head artist. From 1990 to 1993, I worked for a lot of films and everyone liked my work. But that was not the point of satisfaction for me, I wanted to go higher.

In 1994, I started making painting which was another turning point as I was earning pretty well by making banners but then it was absolutely a roller- coaster for me.

Is it a financially stable career?

Yes, but you have to wait for the right time. As I have told above that I am a self-taught artist. When I started making paintings, I made 4 of them and went to a lot of places to sell them. After 2 months, I met a client who liked them. He wanted to purchase all 4 of them but I sold them 3 and today also I have 1 of that paintings with me. I worked for them for a specific period of time.

In 2002, I got a chance to group show and 1 of my painting sold there. Then, I started putting my paintings in exhibitions, my kine in the field of art began from here.

 

Who is your favorite painter/artist and why?

My favorite artists are Rembrandt and Raja Ravi Verma. I have learned a lot from their paintings. Their paintings are majorly figurative and I also make figurative paintings.

I have started from Rajasthani portraits and then did many like Buddha, Ganesha, Krishna, Banaras, etc.

 

What is your inspiration for creating art?

No doubt meditation has helped me a lot. I tried to meditate and the relief and relaxation I got from it, I just wanted to get that on canvas, so that I can give positive vibes to others as well.

This even worked, In 2008 I made Buddha’s painting as a sign of relaxation and peace. My motive was successful as my clients often tell me that whenever they are stressed out they see that painting. I feel so happy.

 

What piece of advice would you like to give to future aspiring artists?

I just want to say that take art as a meditation, not as work. Make paintings and drawings from the heart without missing on a single day. 

Consistency and practice will definitely make you a perfect artist Nobody can stop you from reaching clouds.

 

Which is your favorite book and why?

I majorly like reading religious books. Bhagavad Geeta is my favorite book. I have learned the meaning of life from it and it has helped me in my career as well.

 

Interviewed by - Yashika Khanna