Unity through art and positivity through work is aim: Varsha Sureka
SHARJAH: Varsha Sureka is Indian national and an artist who has been contributing to the art community in the UAE for over one-and-a-half decades. She has a Masters degree in Human Resource, is a mother and also is a music lover. She works in a wide range of art mediums, including abstract, resin, mixed media and clay, among others. “I believe in giving expression to the unsaid, to enrich it with life,” she says. Her work has been exhibited in major art galleries, hotels and malls, both locally and internationally. She has displayed her art in Arab Cultural Club, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, Oasis Mall, Dubai, Dubai Outlet Mall, the Indian Consulate Dubai and at TODA, Madinat Jumeirah. She has been featured in innumerable publications and also has been awarded by Indian Women in Dubai in 2022. A judge and mentor in many events and competitions, on her social side, she works with NGOS for especially abled kids. “Artists are always a source of inspiration for the family and society,” she says. Varsha Sureka speaks to Gulf Today
Are you a professional artist or is art a hobby?
My love for art emerged at a very tender age and it has been an eternal love since then. The urge of doing something in this field arose in school days. The idea of creating something special and meaningful through my art has stayed with me. Looking back, I’m really thankful for this journey that has taken me from enjoying art to making it a big part of my life. It feels good to know that my hobby is now also my profession.
What are the subjects you draw on?
I have had a great inclination towards socially relevant topics and my favourite series is
Equality. Most of my artwork has a message to the audience and stands for a cause. According to me, the best justice to my artworks would be if it could possibly bring a small change in someone’s life or influence and impact him or her positively. Besides that, there are different stories in my artworks which depict the beauty of nature, motivation, travel stories, etc.
Why do you like colour?
I really like colour because it has a big role in how we feel and see things. It can make us feel different emotions and even make us act in certain ways. Picking the right colour can make us feel beter, calm us down when we’re stressed, and just make us happy. It’s like a special magic that colour has – it can change how we feel and bring smiles to our faces. That’s why I’m drawn to colour, not only because it looks nice, but also because it makes one feel good inside too.
What are “Equality Paintings”?
In my “Equality Paintings,” various figures stand together, symbolising core values of unity and equality. The message I strive to convey is that we are fundamentally the same, and devoid of discrimination in the eyes of nature. From the start, our paths are intertwined, and our ultimate destination is shared. This reflection on our shared journey underscores the importance of harmony and togetherness. The figures in the paintings stand as pillars of unity and they remind us that when we unite, our strength multiplies. Through my art, I hope to inspire a world where differences are celebrated and where the power of unity is embraced. This sentiment – United We Stand, Together We Are Stronger – is the essence of my work. I believe these paintings carry a message of togetherness.
How has India influenced your art? How has the UAE impacted you?
India, my birthplace and the starting point of my artistic voyage, has had an immense influence on my thought process. I think its rich cultural vibrant traditions have infused my creations with a special essence. On the other hand, the UAE has provided me with a plaform to fly and soar. Its landscape, full of opportunities, has always provided a great plaform for my art, and the diversity here has helped me push myself to evolve and explore new dimensions.
How has your art making affected your family?
It has a great impact on the family. My children are also exploring these mediums and are refining their fine motor skills and creativity: they always come up with creatively imaginative ideas. Engaging in art-making as a family activity can provide a base for spending quality time together. When families create art together, they learn new techniques, share knowledge and support each other’s skill development.
How have viewers reacted to your art and what have you learnt from displaying your works?
It is a dynamic journey that helps me to grow personally and professionally. Everywhere — from iconic venues such as TODA (Theatre Of Digital Art), Ritz Carlton DIFC, World Art Dubai, Abu Dhabi Boat Show, Dubai Festival Arena, Indian Consulate, Sports Society DXB, RED Radisson Dubai, ADIHEX, City Walk mall, hotels, etc. — I have received much love and appreciation from the audience, for which I am grateful. These exhibitions have not only showcased my artistic evolution, but have also connected me with diverse audiences, enriching my creative journey with every interaction.
You are also a social activist. How does art help activism?
Art is a very helpful means for communication and expression to raise awareness, evoke emotions on social causes and unite people around a common cause.