Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Bula Barua. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Bula, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

One of the most meaningful projects I’ve worked on was a commission for Mr. Tadashi Yanai, Japan’s richest billionaire and the CEO of Uniqlo. This project was incredibly significant to me for several reasons.

Firstly, the collaborative process was unique and inspiring. I worked closely with his partner to create a vision for the artwork that held deep meaning and significance. Every element of the painting was thoughtfully chosen. I created a Blown Glass on Canvas koi fish to symbolize good fortune, perseverance in adversity, and strength of purpose. Additionally, I embedded the logos of both partners within floating water lilies, adding another layer of personal connection and meaning.

Knowing that this painting would hang in Mr. Yanai’s offices in Japan added to the weight of the project. Mr. Yanai is a supporter of the arts and an avid collector, which made me even more determined to create something truly special, imbued with positive energy and love.

The project was incredibly validating for me because it demonstrated that my work could resonate deeply with someone who has access to the best art in the world. Learning that Mr. Yanai loved the painting was overwhelmingly beautiful and reinforced my passion for creating art that evokes emotional impact.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I am a Fine Artist who began oil painting at a very young age. I decided to pursue it professionally in 2007. In 2014, I started experimenting with glass. After learning how to blow and crush glass, I decided to incorporate it into my paintings. By 2018, I had perfected a unique technique called Blown Glass on Canvas, which involves blowing glass directly onto the canvas.

I grew up in the Midwest, with parents from Assam, India, who immigrated to the USA. Raised with a blend of Eastern and Western cultures, we often traveled to India during the summers, with layovers in Europe. Traveling from such a young age greatly influenced my perspective as an artist. I have always loved people, cultures, and the human connection.

I knew I was an artist from a very young age. Art class in elementary school was my favorite part of the week, especially drawing and sketching faces. It wasn’t until I was a young adult living in Los Angeles that I decided to pursue art professionally. I had painted a large oil portrait of a woman standing in a vineyard, which took me nearly six months to complete. Upon finishing, I felt a profound sense of relief and happiness. The compliments from friends who saw the painting encouraged me to buy more canvases and continue painting.

I provide luxury bespoke Blown Glass on Canvas art. Each artwork is unique and tells a story, with hidden and deep meanings behind every painting. They are not just decorative pieces to adorn your walls but are meant to resonate on a deeper level.

What sets me apart from others is the technique I created and perfected over eight years. My art is unlike anything you have ever seen before, and it must be seen in person to be truly appreciated. My artworks create motion and life; they are not flat or stagnant.

I am most proud of my originality and perseverance. I am proud that I didn’t give up and that I worked tirelessly to perfect my technique. Additionally, I am proud that when collectors see my work, many are moved to tears. There is a spiritual aspect to my art that cannot be replicated.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

In my view, one of the most important ways society can support artists and a thriving creative ecosystem is by actively supporting and purchasing art from emerging artists. Many collectors today focus on acquiring works by artists born before 1970, operating under the expectation that the value of these works will skyrocket once the artist passes away. This mindset is deeply flawed and detrimental to the art world.

By focusing solely on established or deceased artists, we neglect the incredible talent and innovation that emerging artists bring to the table. The practice of investing in art solely for potential future financial gain overlooks the living artists who need support now to continue creating and evolving. When collectors and patrons invest in emerging artists, they are not only supporting the artist’s livelihood but also contributing to the growth and diversification of the art world.

Importantly, many emerging artists are already skyrocketing in value while they are alive. This includes myself. Supporting emerging artists means recognizing their potential and value now, rather than waiting for them to become posthumous legends. By appreciating and investing in the works of living artists, we help foster an environment where creativity can flourish, and artists are encouraged to take risks and push boundaries.

A thriving creative ecosystem requires a shift in mentality. We need to value art for its intrinsic beauty, emotional impact, and the stories it tells. Supporting emerging artists also involves creating more platforms for them to showcase their work, such as galleries, art fairs, and online marketplaces. Encouraging art education and public art initiatives can further enrich our communities and cultivate a deeper appreciation for the arts.

Ultimately, a thriving creative ecosystem depends on a collective effort to recognize and support the contributions of artists at all stages of their careers. By doing so, we ensure that the art world continues to be a vibrant and dynamic space, enriched by the voices and visions of contemporary artists.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the profound sense of living my purpose. I wake up every day excited and energized, knowing that I have the power to shape the future through my creations. What I do doesn’t feel like work; it feels like a continuous act of creation.

Being able to express myself authentically through my art allows me to be true to my own vision and, in turn, to connect authentically with others. There is a deep fulfillment in knowing that my work resonates with people and can evoke genuine emotions and responses.

Every piece I create is a reflection of my true self, and this authenticity extends beyond my art into my interactions with others. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how my work not only fulfills me personally but also makes a meaningful impact on those who experience it.

The joy I find in the creative process and the satisfaction of bringing something new into the world are what make being an artist so deeply fulfilling for me.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.bulagallery.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealbula
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bulabaruafineart
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bulab
• Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/cityartgal
• Youtube: https://YouTube.com/bulagallery

Image Credits

All photos by The Bula Barua Gallery