Introducing emerging mixed media artist Nirali

After a 10-year career in the corporate world, emerging artist Nirali decided to turn her passion for art into a full time job in 2021. Here Nirali shares her story of finding her own signature style and voice that features bold and vibrant colours.

Can you tell us your backstory and how you got into the art world?

I haven’t been to art school and I actually graduated in law, spending 10 years in the corporate industry. I’m a self-taught artist and in 2015, I started hunting for something that would bring me peace and joy. Art was the answer, and I began painting as a hobby, stealing as much time I could get, during my commute or after work. Eventually, that turned into selling my paintings and taking part in exhibitions at the Shard.

In May 2021, I decided to change my career and commit to art full-time and I took the leap to quit my job. My passion for art has expanded to all areas of my life and as an emerging artist, I am now trying to establish my art career and find my own artistic style and voice.

What influences your work?

I am heavily influenced by everyday life and the stories I hear. I love a good debate, speaking out for those that have had their voices unfairly muted and on topics that in many cultures have been considered taboo, such as mental health. Inspired by the stories I hear, I love creating bright, bold mixed media artworks portraying an alternative perception.

How would you describe your signature style and technique?

My style is heavily influenced by the vibrancy of my Indian culture, and growing up I was obsessed with the patterns and colours that I would see on clothes, decor and in traditional Indian art like rangoli or henna. Pairing this with my love for experimentation, my technique is to use a mixture of tools including digital art, oil and acrylic paint, gold wax and penwork. Broad brush strokes and blends of colour allows me to replicate my own version of the joy and freedom I feel when creating whilst the penwork allows me to focus on the detail and story I’m trying convey in each piece.

Are there any exhibitions or events you are planning? 

I’m in the middle of planning a very large, very new collection called Hidden Roots. Focused on my Indian and African heritage, I want to delve into exploring the landscape and history of India, key events such as 1947 Partition and the expulsion of Indians from Africa in 1972, and the British Indian culture as it is represented today. I’m going to be using these stories as the basis of my inspiration for my new collection which will be used for a solo exhibition towards the end of the year which will be my very first solo one!

What is the best advice you received as an artist?

Ooh, I have two – sorry! Rejection is the path to success and always seek out your own opportunities – if you don’t ask you will never get. These are my favourite pieces of advice I received from creatives at different stages of their career. These bits of advice have really helped me push forward out of my comfort zone and reach out for opportunities, knowing if I fail at it now, eventually I will succeed.

Nirali details:

For more information please visit Nirali’s website.

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