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

Rashmi, appreciate you joining us today. Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?

Art has truly been a guiding light for me, opening my eyes to the beauty nestled within the simplicity of everyday moments. It’s like a wise mentor, teaching me not just to see, but to truly understand and feel the world around me, fostering empathy and unveiling the layers of complexity that shape our lives. This belief, that creativity transcends boundaries, assures me that those with a creative spark will always find their own unique way, infusing creativity into even the most mundane of tasks or regular jobs.

Rashmi, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Sure, let’s dive deeper into my artistic journey and philosophy. My passion for art ignited during my formative years in Mumbai’s vibrant suburbs. From an early age, I found solace and joy in sketching and painting. It was a natural inclination that didn’t go unnoticed. A perceptive school teacher recognized my talent and encouraged me to participate in art competitions. Winning accolades and certificates further fueled my enthusiasm and confidence in pursuing art as a lifelong endeavor.
My educational journey took me to prestigious institutions both in Mumbai and New York City. At the Sir JJ School of Arts in Mumbai, I delved into the intricacies of Arts and Design, honing my technical skills and expanding my artistic horizons. Later, at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, I specialized in Fashion Styling, broadening my creative repertoire.

In the year 2015 moved to the vibrant city of Austin, Texas with my family. I embarked on a journey to establish myself in the local art scene. Over nine years, I’ve dedicated myself to cultivating my craft and making a meaningful impact through my artwork. From solo exhibitions to collaborative projects with various art groups, I’ve been actively engaged in showcasing my work and fostering connections within the artistic community.

Gallery representation across Texas, including Austin, Lakeway, Bee Cave, and Dripping Springs, has provided me with opportunities to reach a wider audience and establish my presence in the regional art scene. Membership in esteemed art organizations and participation in juried art shows, judged by renowned artists, have further validated my dedication and commitment to artistic excellence.

My website, rashmithakurart.com, serves as a digital gallery where I showcase the diverse range of my artistic endeavors. From intricate watercolors to bold oil paintings, and delicate silk creations to textured textiles, my portfolio reflects my fascination with a myriad of subjects, from portraits and landscapes to cultural motifs and wildlife.

In addition to my artistic pursuits, I’m deeply committed to giving back to the community that has supported me on my journey. Through initiatives such as art judging for school competitions, mentoring aspiring artists, and conducting workshops, I strive to nurture creativity and foster a love for art among people of all ages. My private studio, Art Chakra, serves as a haven for artistic exploration and learning, where students are encouraged to embrace their creativity and unleash their imagination.

Ultimately, my artistic journey is a testament to the transformative power of art. Whether through creation, collection, or education, I believe in the ability of art to evoke emotions, provoke thoughts, and inspire positive change in the world.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

Today, it seems like everything is about getting what we want immediately, and the true appreciation for professional artists who dedicate their lives to creating fine art is getting lost among those who aren’t as involved in the creative world. I want to shed light on the work of career artists and emphasize how different they are from hobbyists. Many career artists have spent years learning and training in their craft, pouring countless hours of hard work into their creations, pouring their hearts and souls into each creation. They are experts in their field, having invested countless hours into mastering their skills.

Another reason why non-creatives might hesitate to support career artists is the misconception that original art is always expensive and unaffordable. However, it may surprise many to learn that a lot of these artworks are actually quite affordable. These artists produce original pieces of art that are unique and often take on special commissions, which are highly valued by their owners. These artists play a vital role in shaping our society’s arts and culture, and many of them pass on their knowledge by teaching and mentoring the next generation of artists.

Owning an original piece of art goes beyond mere aesthetics. It’s about cherishing a piece of history, a slice of the artist’s soul captured on canvas or paper. Each artwork carries a narrative, a story waiting to be told, and becomes a catalyst for meaningful conversations and reflections. The act of collecting art isn’t just about acquisition; it’s about building connections and enriching one’s life with beauty and inspiration.

Moreover, career artists play a vital role in shaping our society’s cultural landscape. They contribute to the richness and diversity of our artistic heritage, leaving an indelible mark on future generations. Through teaching and mentoring, they pass on their knowledge and expertise, nurturing the next wave of creative talent and ensuring the continuity of our artistic traditions.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

It all begins with a strong foundation—my focus lies on advocating for the inclusion of art education within school curriculums. Shifting the emphasis from STEM to STEAM is crucial for the next generation. Throughout history, humans have discovered themselves and expressed their identities through creativity. In today’s technologically-driven society, maintaining a connection to art provides essential grounding. Often, concerns about whether children will pursue art as a primary career path lead to a lack of motivation to engage in artistic pursuits. However, it’s important to remember that regardless of career choices, fostering creativity cultivates personal growth and development. Additionally, I also want to stress the value of not being afraid to explore, visiting local art galleries, and supporting local artists. It might not make artists wealthy, but it shows them that their art matters and is valued.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.rashmithakurart.com
• Instagram: @rashmi_thakur_art
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rashmithakurart
• Other: https://www.pinterest.com/rtcreativestudios/

Image Credits
Manav Karonde