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Kiran Soni Gupta

"Painting has been my source of inspiration – the vibrancy and rich colors always attracted me. They seem to have a story of their own.

"I am an IAS (Indian Administrative Service) officer. It is quite a challenge being in the administrative field. But being highly sensitive and empathetic, with time, I have become an expert in finding creative solutions to tough situations.

"Because painting is my passion, when I am not working I take solace in art. Though I am self-taught, some of the understanding of the artist I am today can be contributed to my sister. She has always been an inspiration for me.

"Crossing cultural boundaries is a big challenge. I have experienced this while working with artisans as well as other people in my administrative capacity in India and also in foreign nations. The idea is to overcome such difficulties and have the power to disregard these difficulties. I think art does that for you – it unites nations and removes cultural boundaries. Since then, creating as well as promoting Indian art have been my chief motives.

"Because I have traveled all over India, my encounters with a variety of complex individuals as well as practical knowledge have pushed me to cross my visual boundaries. Therefore, experimenting with art is no more a challenge. Beauty and visually aesthetic values impress me most.

"I specialize in gold leaf painting. Gold work paintings originated in Tanjore. My work is an adaptation of the same, but I focus more on objects than human figures. I use simple cartridge paper, pure gold leaf sourced from Chennai and stones from Jaipur.

"It is very special technique. The gold work really adds much value to the painting. My themes reflect the beauty of Indian jewelry, musical instruments and many other objects.

"I've painted most of my life. The art I have created has been inspired by my travels as well as village artisans I have encountered. My dream is to promote Indian art in a big way, and I hope my association with Novica will help me come closer to my dream."

Kiran Soni Gupta has received a number of accolades, including the National Award for painting in the "Matters of Heart" 63rd All-India Art Exhibition in 2004, and the National Award for the AIFACS Platinum Jubilee All-India in 2003. Her work has been exhibited in India and abroad.