About the Artist
The story behind the art
Sankari
Based in Chennai, India, Sankari is a contemporary artist whose work transcends the boundaries of traditional mediums. With a deep reverence for classical techniques and an adventurous spirit for experimentation, she creates pieces that speak to both heritage and innovation.
Her artistic journey began in the vibrant streets of Chennai, where the interplay of light, color, and texture first captured her imagination. After completing her formal education in fine arts, she dedicated herself to mastering multiple mediums, believing that each offers a unique voice for artistic expression.
“I don't believe in limiting myself to one medium,” Sankari explains. “Each artwork has its own spirit, and it tells me which medium will bring it to life most authentically. Sometimes it's the rich impasto of oils, other times the ethereal flow of watercolors.”
Artist Statement
“My art is an exploration of the spaces between observation and emotion, between the tangible world and the stories we tell ourselves about it. Through color, texture, and form, I seek to capture not just what we see, but what we feel when we truly look.
Whether working with the luminous depths of oil paint, the fluid spontaneity of watercolor, or the bold immediacy of acrylics, I approach each piece as a conversation between medium and meaning. The medium becomes part of the message, shaping and being shaped by the vision I wish to convey.”
Why Multiple Mediums?
Each medium offers its own language, its own possibilities, its own limitations that become creative challenges. I believe in letting the subject matter guide the choice of medium.
Oil: For subjects that demand depth, luminosity, and the ability to work slowly and contemplatively. Perfect for capturing the play of light on water or the subtle variations in skin tones.
Watercolor: When transparency and spontaneity are essential. The way water and pigment dance together creates effects impossible to achieve in any other medium.
Acrylic: For bold statements and contemporary subjects. The quick drying time allows for layering and experimentation.
Mixed Media: When a single medium isn't enough to tell the story. Combining materials creates new narratives and textures.
Medium Proficiency
Journey
Key milestones in my artistic path
Colors of Chennai - Solo Exhibition
First major solo exhibition at Gallery Veda, Chennai, featuring 25 original works.
Emerging Artist Award
Received the Lalit Kala Akademi Emerging Artist Award for excellence in watercolor painting.
Botanical Dreams - Solo Exhibition
Exhibition of botanical watercolors at Art Houz Gallery, Chennai.
Studio Established
Set up a dedicated art studio in Chennai, marking the transition to full-time artistic practice.
First Gallery Representation
Signed with Gallery Veda for representation and exhibition opportunities.
MFA in Fine Arts
Completed Master of Fine Arts from Government College of Fine Arts, Chennai.
BFA in Painting
Graduated with honors in Painting from Government College of Fine Arts, Chennai.
The Studio
My studio is my sanctuary, a space where creativity flows freely and ideas take physical form. Located in Chennai, it's filled with natural light, the smell of linseed oil, and canvases in various stages of completion.
Here, surrounded by tubes of paint, brushes of every size, and stacks of quality paper, I spend my days lost in the meditative practice of creating. The studio is open for visits by appointment for collectors and curators.
Professional Profile
View the complete professional profile including exhibition history, education, awards, and collections on LinkedIn.
When Not Painting...
You'll find me exploring Chennai's hidden gems with my camera, tending to my rooftop garden (which provides endless botanical inspiration), or getting lost in a good book. I'm also an avid cook who believes that creating in the kitchen is not so different from creating on canvas - both require intuition, patience, and a willingness to experiment.