Piya Samant

https://www.artbypiyali.com/

Featured artist Piya Samant discusses her dedication to painting every day and how she works in series. She is also a recipient of a Material Needs 2018 Grant. To learn more about Piya’s process, read our interview and view her work on her website.

When did art become a pursuit for you?

I have been drawing portraits since grade school, but I started painting everyday as a full-time artist in April 2015.

Are you self-taught or formally educated in visual art?

I am a self-taught visual artist.

How did you first become involved with ArtsWorcester?

I discovered ArtsWorcester’s One show three years ago and decided to join as an artist member to participate.

What medium do you currently work in, and how did you choose this medium?

Oil is my first love and preferred medium. I also work with pastel pencils and pen and ink from time to time.

What is your creative process?

It varies each time. Sometimes I have an idea that becomes inspiration for a painting and other times I am inspired by photographs that I use as reference. All my paintings have brilliant, saturated colors that make the paintings pop.

How do you choose your subject matter? Are there themes that recur throughout your work?

Typically, I pick a subject matter and create a series of 20-30 paintings. I switch over to another subject, but always return to the previous subject matters and continue adding to the series.

What living artists are you inspired by?

For the past 5 years I have followed the work of Karin Jurick and Carol Marine. They are both pioneers of the Daily Painters movement and have inspired me to paint daily.

Do you own any art by other artists?

Yes, I collect paintings, prints and sculptures from artists around the world. It is a source of inspiration and a reminder to continue creating.

What other media or directions would you like to explore?

I am interested in combining my skills as a Henna artist with glass painting. My goal is to draw and paint Henna inspired designs on Glass Windows or other large glass panels.