The Neo Art Magazine

An impressionist by style, Shruti Goyal’s artworks evoke layers of hues and effects, transcending the viewer to a world of colourful celebration of landscapes. She describes her paintings as ‘a collection of abstract expressionist colour field paintings reflecting the emotions that weave the fabric of our lives.’

A young artist with a rather long list of exhibitions, Shruti moved away from traditional careers and chose art as her way of life. Awarded the Luxembourg Art Prize in 2021 and a Special award for four paintings by the Mellow Art Award, Japan, in 2022, Shruti’s artworks have been exhibited in some of the eminent artistic spaces in national capital region. With her recent solo exhibition in Art Gallery IIC (India International Centre) Annexe, Shruti’s work has been selected for exhibitions by the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA), Ministry of Culture in India, The Holy Art Gallery, London and 62^nd National Exhibition of Art (2022).

In a conversation with TNA, Shruti opens up about her artistic process, inspiration, challenges as an artist and her upcoming exhibition.

Since when did your artistic style first emerge? How did these shifts occur?

Over time, my artistic style has undergone a fascinating evolution, initially rooted in semi-abstract and abstract paintings aimed at expressing diverse emotions and moods. The turning point came during the global pandemic when a profound desire to be outdoors and explore new locations inspired the creation of the ‘Journey’ series.

In this series, I began to perceive trees, buildings, people, and natural objects as a unified entity—a swatch of colour rather than distinct individuals. This shift was influenced by a broader perspective, where the diverse colour hues seamlessly blended into one harmonious whole when viewed from a greater distance. The global circumstances of the pandemic and the subsequent shift in my desire for open exploration played a significant role in this transformation. The ‘Journey’ series further evolved into a more universal theme, merging external and internal elements. While colour and its hues remained central, the theme underwent transformations in style, forms, and lines, reflecting the evolving nature of my experiences and the passage of time.

Are there any particular artists, art movements, or cultures that have significantly influenced your style?

A deep appreciation for colours and forms drives my expression. Colour field and minimalist paintings by artists such as Helen Frankenthaler, Mark Rothko, and Clifford Still have influenced my approach to visual storytelling. Anselm Kiefer’s neo-expressionist works have influenced the narrative and emotional depth of my creations. Artists such as Ram Kumar and Prabhakar Kolte’s work has left an indelible mark on my use of colours and textures, serving as a guiding influence in my artistic palette. Nicholas Roerich’s surreal use of colours and landscapes has also impacted my artistic sensibilities. His ability to transcend the ordinary and evoke a sense of the mystical through his artworks has had a long-lasting influence on my exploration of unusual themes and vibrant visual elements.

How about non-artistic influences that impact your creative process?

Literature has a powerful influence, serving as a source of narrative inspiration and imaginative exploration. I enjoy reading, and books frequently inspire visual landscapes, storytelling, and emotional nuances in my art. Music has a transformative effect on my creative endeavours, setting the emotional tone. Playing Music while painting becomes a dynamic force shaping the mood and atmosphere within each piece, whether it’s the rhythm, melody, or lyrics.

Nature, perhaps the most basic influence, is a never-ending muse. Its natural beauty, complexity, and ever-changing landscapes are a continuous source of inspiration. Nature inspires my artistic expression, from the vibrant hues of a sunset to the intricate patterns found in the natural world.

Do you incorporate diverse cultural influences into your work?

While figures dominate in some instances, I also delve into the abstract nature and emotions inherent in Indian paintings and crafts. There is a remarkable depth of abstract, formless philosophy and spirituality in Indian art, often overlooked due to the predominant adoption of Western notions in contemporary art.

Moreover, I am keen on utilising unconventional materials for my paintings, echoing the resourcefulness found in Indian art. Recycling used clothing, plastic bags, cloth, printed paper, and other waste items aligns with the ethos of sustainability and environmental consciousness. By adopting the techniques of creating designs from clothing collages, akin to Phulkari and various regional arts, I seek to blend contemporary art with life-useful traditional arts.

The art landscape is a tough one to traverse. As an artist, what are some of the biggest obstacles you had to overcome?

As an artist, I’ve faced a variety of challenges, each of which provided opportunities for growth and resilience. Adapting to the changing art landscape, particularly during the global pandemic, presented new challenges. Accepting digital platforms, participating in virtual exhibitions, and connecting with other artists online became critical strategies for overcoming the constraints imposed by the circumstances. The introduction of new-age marketing via social media added another layer of complication. Staying current on digital trends, presenting fresh content on a consistent basis, and engaging with my audience in the digital sphere became critical components of overcoming this challenge. It’s a fluid process of adapting to the ever-changing social media landscape, ensuring that my works remain relevant and vivid in viewers’ minds.

I’ve learned that each obstacle is an opportunity for artistic growth as a result of these challenges.

How do you balance personal artistic expression with potential commercial success?

I place a strong emphasis on authenticity. While the process can be challenging, I prioritise staying true to my personal self and artistic vision. My focus is primarily on self-expression, ensuring that each piece is a genuine reflection of my concepts and intentions.

In the pursuit of resonating with viewers, I proactively engage with my audience, making them aware of the underlying concepts and intentions behind my work. By fostering an understanding of my artistic journey, I aim to create a connection that goes beyond aesthetics. This approach allows my art to become more relatable, encouraging viewers to connect with the personal narratives and emotions embedded in each piece. Ultimately, the balance I seek is one where my authentic self-expression converges with the relatable aspects that resonate deeply with my audience, fostering both personal fulfillment and commercial success.

What is the project that you are currently working on? Can you tell us more about it?

I am currently immersed in the creation of “Portal,” an immersive solo exhibition that explores the intersection of imagination, emotion, and reality. This captivating project combines paintings and installations, inviting viewers to delve into the intriguing concept of portals symbolising connections between different worlds. The paintings within the exhibition are visually striking, characterised by vibrant colours, intricate details, and captivating compositions. The play of light and shadow adds a mysterious element, enticing viewers into a transformative journey. To elevate the immersive experience, multimedia elements such as ambient sounds and projected visuals will be integrated, blurring the lines between the viewer and the painting.

The project aims to leave a lasting impression on all those who experience it, offering a unique and enchanting journey into uncharted territories within the mind.