The Uncommon Box consistently strives to turn the focus on artists who are living their passion in spite of following their hectic schedules. Meet our Uncommon artiste Rashmi Krishnappa, software engineer by profession and part time artist by passion. She balances home and work, as well as manages to follow her dreams of pursuing her love for art. She was born in Germany, raised in India and has been living in USA for the last 16 years. Team The Uncommon Box caught up with her in a heart-to-heart.
Rashmi Krishnappa
The Conversation:
#TUB : Let us know something about your creativity. What kind of artwork do you do?
I am a self-taught artist. I started to draw in 2015 after a gap of over 20 years , still experimenting, trying and learning art. I have always been interested in intricate patterns and free-style drawing and that’s what you see in my art work. My art work is a mixture and has been heavily influenced by various art forms like Madhubani, Kalamkari, Zentangle, Mandalas etc, you will also see me incorporating Henna and Mehndi patterns in my art work. I love pen art – though you will find me from time to time trying water colours, acrylic paints etc I am mostly in love with pen art – I use various kinds of fine liners and micron pens.
Rashmi Krishnappa
#TUB : You are a software professional. So when did you find that you want to do something in Creative art field? Any story behind it or was it a dream come true?
Growing up during my school days I loved drawing and painting and also took part in competitions at the time. After a certain point of time, art completely took a back seat and I did not pursue it in any way. Couple of years back I picked up a pen and decided to try my hand at some drawing and I never stopped since. I started to draw because art to me feels like meditation like therapy to the mind. Many people pursue various hobbies or sports or yoga etc for meditation and calming of the mind, for me it is art. I started to draw for the pure joy of it – after about a year people started to show interest in buying my art work and so I setup an online store.
#TUB : Have you received any support from your family and friends in enhancing your creativity?
Family and friends have been very encouraging and supportive of my art work. The encouragement I have gotten is the reason behind where I am today.
#TUB : We have seen that most of the artists want to bring happiness and smiles on the faces of people through their artwork. If it is so and there are numerous artists in the world but still people are frustrated and not happy. Why is it so? Why don’t the thoughts of the artist work there?
I do wish artists could change the world, I do wish artists could bring peace to world, I wish artists could put a smile on every face in the world. But reality is that it’s not possible. However if each person could bring a smile on one face, inspire one person in a positive way then the world is already a better place. And really it does not apply just to artists, anyone in any profession can and should aim to bring a smile to people’s faces.
#TUB : Are you earning through your art as a freelancer? You have mentioned Society-6, has any income started from it?
Yes from the last few months I have started to earn a bit from art. I started to sell art prints on Etsy few months back after I received few requests. I have sold some art prints throughout the world, hope to keep growing my online shop. I have also done couple of tattoo designs for clients.
#TUB : Please provide the links where people can find you.
Etsy Shop | Facebook | Instagram |
email : rkrishnappa@gmail.com
#TUB : What is the objective of your platform?
Since I just got started with selling art I do not currently have a business objective defined. I got back to art for me and the joy it gave me. Some of the emails and notes I receive from people that buy my art prints is truly heart touching – it feels wonderful to know that my art could give such joy to someone. To make my art reach across the globe… Like every corner of the world – that seems like a good objective for now.
Such an inspiring story– and not just a story but one based in reality, teaching us that we can continue to pursue what nourishes our soul.
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