In this episode of the Arts To Hearts Podcast, Charuka takes us on a heartfelt journey through her amazing creative career. She shares the six important questions she would ask her younger self if she were starting her artistic journey today. Through personal stories, Charuka emphasizes the importance of believing in oneself and embracing one’s unique creative identity.

Charuka also expresses her gratitude to the listeners for their support and talks about the latest magazine issue, which showcases captivating artistic expressions. She gives a sneak peek into the upcoming autumn edition, inviting artists from around the world to participate and explore the theme of “Sanctuary”. This theme encourages artists to find their creative havens and express themselves freely.

To end the episode, Charuka candidly shares her own creative journey, filled with surprises and self-discovery. She hopes that her insights and stories will inspire listeners to discover their own creative paths.

Listen to this wonderful episode of the Arts To Hearts Podcast and let Charuka’s wisdom and stories unlock your creative potential, guiding you towards self-expression and creative fulfillment.

Watch & Listen to this podcast Episode.

About Charuka Arora

Charuka Arora is the founder of the Arts to Hearts Project and Host of the Arts to Hearts Podcast. She is also an Indian artist whose boundary-redefining contemporary embellished paintings have earned her international recognition. With her unique blend of gouache, collage, embroideries, painting, and drawing, Charuka examines the intersection of art, culture, heritage, and womanhood. She creates art that tells stories of a woman’s strength of soul, encapsulating them in pieces that can be passed down from generation to generation.

One of her notable works is the ongoing series entitled “Modern Maharani”. These hand-embellished mixed media paintings and collages depict stories of women’s inner strength, inspired by Indian culture, mythology, and their relationship with women. These contemporary tales are deeply rooted in history and display an unexpected satire on patriarchy and misogyny.

Upon closer inspection, the feminine appearance of these works reveals an innovative visual language, using jewelry, human features, and other items of belongingness in a new play with embellishments that redefine the age-old narrative set for women.

Charuka’s work also draws inspiration from Hindu mythology that considers women as vessels of Shakti, identifying them as beings responsible for the creation, maintenance, and destruction of the universe. Her depiction of Durga Maa riding a tiger or lion indicates that she possesses unlimited power that she uses to protect virtue and destroy evil, symbolizing the idea of a woman’s strength as depicted in religious tales and goddesses.

With her artistic creations, Charuka transports us into a woman’s world, offering powerful portrayals of the beauty, strength, and resilience of women. Her work not only displays exceptional artistic talent but also serves as an inspiration and a beacon of hope for women seeking to break out of the constraints imposed by societal norms.

Key Highlights From The Episode

“Starting as an Artist: 6 Questions to Ask Yourself”

To be an artist is to believe. It’s about embracing your identity and putting your faith in your creativity. In this episode of the Arts to Hearts podcast, I, Charuka, will be sharing my thoughts and reflections on starting as an artist today. As I observe younger artists and their evolving career paths, I often wonder what I would do differently if given the chance. So, grab a cup of coffee and join me as we explore the six questions I would ask myself if I were starting as an artist today.

Question 1: What does being an artist mean to me?

When I began my artistic journey, I had no idea what being an artist truly meant. Coming from a design background, I felt a longing for something more. It was in my core that I knew I wasn’t in the right place. However, over time, I discovered that being an artist is not just a career, it’s an extension of who I am. It’s about feeling connected and knowing deep down that I’m in the right place, even during the low seasons.

Question 2: How can I embrace exploration and learning?

Throughout my career, I’ve dipped my hands into various creative endeavors, gaining new skills and experiences along the way. I believe that embracing exploration and constant learning is crucial for growth as an artist. It may get confusing at times, but through self-reflection, we can understand what fits well and where we truly belong. It’s about being open to trying new things, even if they’re outside of our comfort zones.

Question 3: How can I build a supportive community?

Having a supportive community is essential for artists. When I was working as a designer, I felt a lack of community, which contributed to my confusion and dissatisfaction. Looking back, I would ask myself how I can actively build a network of like-minded individuals who understand and appreciate my artistic journey. Connecting with fellow artists, attending events, and participating in online communities can all help in establishing a strong support system.

Question 4: How can I cultivate self-love and acceptance?

Art is a reflection of who we are, and for our work to truly shine, we must fully love and accept ourselves. During the early stages of my career, I struggled with self-doubt. But I’ve learned that by embracing my own identity and showing kindness to myself, I can put 100% of who I am into my art. So, I would encourage myself to prioritize self-love, nurture my soul, and approach my creative journey with confidence and authenticity.

Question 5: How can I adapt to changing trends and practices?

The world of art is constantly evolving, and as artists, we must be adaptable. Observing younger artists and their innovative approaches has inspired me to question my own practices. I would ask myself how I can adapt to changing trends and technologies while staying true to my artistic vision. It’s about finding a balance between embracing new techniques and staying true to the core values and aesthetics that define my art.

Question 6: How can I find inspiration and stay motivated?

Finding inspiration can sometimes feel like a daunting task. As I reflect on my journey, I would ask myself how I can consistently find inspiration and stay motivated. This could involve exploring different art forms, traveling to new places, or connecting with other creative individuals. By nourishing my mind and seeking inspiration from diverse sources, I can keep my artistic fire burning.

In the end, I would just say that starting as an artist today requires introspection and a willingness to evolve. By asking ourselves these six crucial questions – what being an artist means to us, how we can embrace exploration and learning, how we can build a supportive community, how we can cultivate self-love and acceptance, how we can adapt to changing trends and practices, and how we can find inspiration and stay motivated – we can embark on a fulfilling artistic journey.

So, let’s believe in ourselves, put our faith in our creativity, and embrace the ever-evolving world of art.

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