Meghna Sharma is an artist based in Cupertino, California. Having worked with several mediums, she specializes in oil painting with a penchant for portraits. Through her paintings, she likes to look at people from different walks of life. The human face and form interest her immensely, and she tries to capture the intricacies of a person’s personality in her paintings. In this interview, Meghna shares how she rekindled her love for painting during the pandemic after stepping away from her art career while working in the Indian bureaucracy. She also talks about how moving to California has inspired her and changed her approach to art.

Meghna Sharma is an artist in San Francisco Bay Area, California. Though she works with several mediums, she now specializes in oil painting and has a penchant for portraits. The human form and face interest her immensely, and she loves to observe people in their natural settings. Through her paintings, she likes to look at people from different walks of life.as previously exhibited her paintings at the Cupertino Library and at The Gallery House, Palo Alto. Before moving to California she had exhibited her art at several solo and group exhibitions in India. Her painting titled ‘The Wait’ is on permanent display at The Indian Railway Institute of Financial Management (IRIFM) Secunderabad, India. Her painting ‘Lazy Afternoons’ was selected for The DeYoung Open 2023 and displayed at The DeYoung Museum, San Francisco. Recently her painting “The Flower Seller” was chosen for the Silicon Valley Open Studios/CSMA preview show “Renewal & Resilience” March 30- April 28th 2024 at The Mohr Gallery, Mountain View. Two of her paintings were selected for SFWA’s show ‘Identity I Am’ April 9th -3rd May 2024, where her painting ‘As I am’ got Juror’s Choice. She has also been selected for the City of Sunnyvale Exhibit Program 2024 and her paintings were on display at The Sunnyvale Senior Centre from July 10th to August 21st, 2024. She is currently a member of The San Francisco Women Artists (SFWA) gallery

1. Meghna mentioned that you loved art as a child but had to pause your passion while working in the Indian bureaucracy. How did you find your way back to painting during the pandemic?

The pandemic was a period of quiet introspection and self reflection. It gave me an opportunity to take a step back and revisit some of the earlier passions. Painting was always something that I had wanted to pursue and a few months of break from work allowed me to take it up again.

Everyday moments often carry a subtle, unassuming charm that speaks to the shared human experience.

Meghna Sharma

2. Your paintings capture everyday moments that many people might overlook. What draws you to these scenes, and how do you decide what to paint?

What draws me to these scenes is the beauty and significance found in the ordinary. Everyday moments often carry a subtle, unassuming charm that speaks to the shared human experience. By painting these scenes, I aim to highlight their intrinsic value and evoke a sense of familiarity and connection in the viewer

3.You’ve shown your art in both India and the U.S. How has living in California and being part of the Bay Area art community changed the way you create and think about your art?

After shifting to California, I feel very inspired by the contemporary art space. Having been part of a cooperative art gallery and with the interaction with local artists in the Bay area California, I was exposed to myriad talented artists and their artwork was immensely inspiring. My art has transitioned from traditional portrait art to a more contemporary style. Engaging with local artists in California and actively participating in various events has been incredibly enriching. These experiences have exposed me to fresh perspectives, diverse themes, and dynamic creative environments, all of which have deeply influenced and has provided new inspiration to my artistic journey.

4. Your work has been featured in some amazing exhibitions and magazines. How do these accomplishments affect you and your art journey?

Being featured in exhibitions and magazines has a significant impact on my art journey. These accomplishments bring a sense of validation and encouragement, affirming that the themes and techniques I explore resonate with a wider audience. They also provide valuable exposure, helping me reach new audiences and connect with other artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts.

Exploring different approaches can lead to unexpected discoveries and growth. Allow yourself the freedom to play and innovate.

Meghna Sharma

5.  Could you tell us about one of your favorite paintings, like ‘The Wait’ or ‘Lazy Afternoons’? What’s its story, and why is it special to you?

One of my favorite paintings is “Lazy Afternoons.” It captures a serene and intimate moment of my daughter and her friend completely absorbed in their books and imagination. It reminded me of my own childhood, which was devoid of gadgets and devices, and life was simpler. I was struck by how the girls were so deeply engrossed in their reading, oblivious to the world around them. Their quiet concentration and the peaceful atmosphere of the room created a perfect snapshot of tranquility and innocence. This painting is particularly special to me because it encapsulates a fleeting moment of pure, unadulterated wonder. The painting not only serves as a cherished memory of my daughter’s childhood and of the imaginative worlds that books can open up for us, no matter our age.

6. As a self-taught artist who has moved from traditional portraits to a more modern style, what advice would you give to other artists trying to discover their own unique style?

As a self-taught artist who has transitioned from traditional portraits to a more modern style, I believe the best advice I can offer to other artists seeking to discover their unique style is to stay true to their own artistic voice while remaining open to learning and incorporating new ideas and techniques. Your unique perspective and experiences shape your art. Embrace what makes your work distinct and personal. While it’s important to stay true to your style, don’t hesitate to experiment with new mediums, techniques, and subjects. Exploring different approaches can lead to unexpected discoveries and growth. Allow yourself the freedom to play and innovate.

Meghna Sharma’s journey from India to the Bay Area and her return to art during the pandemic is inspiring. Through her paintings, she invites us to see the beauty in everyday moments and the world around us. Her experiences have not only shaped her creative style but also deepened her connection to her craft. To learn more about Megna, click the following links to visit her profile.