(2015, BFA Painting)
aashilpiagarwal@gmail.com
I am a practicing artist from Lakhimpur-Kheri, Uttar Pradesh, a small city in the Terai belt, a marshy plain located south of the Himalayas on the Nepal border. As a child art has always been integral to my life. I found solace in doodling and later developed a deep connection with nature during my teenage years. Pursuing higher education in bustling Delhi, I felt like an observer, missing the simplicity of my hometown. Despite the allure of metropolitan cities, I longed for the authenticity of Lakhimpur, where even fetching water from a hand pump held cherished memories.
Transitioning to corporate life in the city, I frequented art institutions which motivated me to pursue formal art education in Painting (BFA) at Delhi University. I then pursued an M.V.A. from Ambedkar University, further expanding my artistic practice.
Throughout my journey, I’ve explored various mediums, reflecting my deep connection to nature and a desire to capture its essence. My work seeks harmony and balance, blending nature with urban complexities. Through art, I aim to evoke emotions, challenge perspectives, and invite viewers to reconnect with their surroundings.
Nature has always been a profound source of inspiration, and despite challenges posed by migration and urban living, I’ve sought solace in public parks, especially during the pandemic. Witnessing the impact of urbanization on green spaces in Delhi/NCR, I’ve diligently documented the displacement of neighborhood gardens, highlighting the importance of preserving natural ecosystems. My ongoing practice revolves around this quest to maintain the delicate balance between urban and natural environments.