Could you tell us about yourself?
I am a self-taught artist with no formal education in sketching, doodling or anything remotely related. I did my masters in History and I always wanted to be an archaeologist. I used to post my art casually on Instagram and one day got noticed by Dewarists (an MTV show) and they featured my art. Since then, I have been doodling very regularly. Recently, I started an e-store pentemptation.com where I sell merchandise designed by me. It’s been an amazing journey so far.
How did doodling happen?
I have been fascinated by doodles since childhood but, I never considered doodling a profession. My parents realised my interest and wanted me to pursue it.
When did you start doodling projects?
I realised the potential of my art recently when I was approached by an NGO from the US to create a colouring book for old people. Colouring intricate doodles help them improve their memory and concentration. This is when I realised the power of my art. My art is also used by an international magazine “Corner Stone” and I have designed merchandise for a few brands now. My website is doing pretty well and this gives me a lot of satisfaction that people like my work and wear my designs.
How do you start working on a doodle? What’s your technique?
I don’t have a hard-defined process and I also don’t make plans before starting anything. It’s like whenever something strikes my mind, I put it on paper or whatever medium I think my illustration will look good on. Sometimes it depends on the mood...usually when I am swamp with projects.
What do you have to say about theme-based doodles?
Theme-based doodles are something I like personally because they are easy to make. You can easily connect to your viewers as in, they understand what the artist wants to convey and they can relate to it easily.
What’s your style of doodling?
I feel that my style is unique because I don’t follow a particular style. I draw in various styles and sometimes I merge different art forms together.
What is the best thing about doodling?
Doodling is a form of relaxation for me. I absolutely enjoy how I get zoned out while I am working on my art. I would say detailing my doodles is bliss. My delight in the process of
making an illustration and in what I envision is what drives me. I thrive on detailing.
Any advice for budding doodlers?
Listen to your heart. Do what makes you happy. If you like art and think that you can’t draw, try harder. Don’t just quit, take a class and work at it. I think you will be wonderfully surprised.