Signed Impressionist Painting of a Park (2016) from India, "Evening Walk"

"I have been a great fan of art since childhood, when I used to make clay figures. I think my interest in art mainly comes from my mother, who is very talented. She used to make beautiful clay sculptures. To see how a lump of clay could turn into such beautiful sculptures was really a treat to watch. She was also great with needlework and she used to make colorful embroidery work.

"I always dreamed of becoming an artist, even as a child. I feel every person has a hidden talent and you just have to find it and nurture it. It's funny that initially I thought I would be able to paint in any style quite easily, as I didn't know much about this field. But later as I grew up, I realized it is a very vast field that includes so many different materials and techniques. I realized there is much more to learn in this field, for which I had to give it a lot of effort and time.

"As I learned more and more about it, I got more and more attracted to the beautiful world of art. Choosing art as a profession is still very unorthodox here in India, and so when I chose this field my friends used to tell me that there was nothing more to offer this field, and that it didn't offer a very bright future. But I followed my heart and today when they see my talent and my passion toward my work, the same friends proudly say that I am their friend.

"I tried to get into the Delhi College of Art, a premier institute for people who want to be in the art world. However, since I did not have any experience and was very new in this field, so I had to take classes with a professional artist at an art institute.

"My parents were also not very keen on letting me take up this profession, but seeing my talent they supported me and today they are proud of my decision.

"Mr. Mukesh Bhagat was my first art teacher, at school. He introduced me to his friend Mr. Sunil Jaiswal [a Novica featured artist] who directed the Lakhya Institute of Art, where he taught me. Finally, I succeeded in being admitted to Delhi College of Art. It was such a proud moment for me.

"I use many materials in my work such as oil paints, acrylics, canvas, different papers, inks, charcoal, etc. When I first started painting with these materials I used to find it difficult, but now I feel more at easy and comfortable. It's great to be working with different materials as each material has its own charm.

"I get inspired by the work of great artists from around the world. Also, every day is a learning process and as I work, it continues to inspire me. I always like to produce something which has some positive impact on the viewer. I want them to feel the same happiness and joy I felt while painting."

Rahul signs his work with his full name, Rahul Singh.