Dhwani Parekh

California, USA, Nature’s Hug, oil, 19 x 19"

My Inspiration

Everyone has to face their share of challenges in life. Sometimes all we need is a hug from a loved one assuring that everything will be fine. On a random stroll in the park, I realized that through my art, I can convey this beautiful message. Nature holds the key to our intellectual and spiritual gratification. Those who ponder upon the beauty of nature, find reserves of strength and an infinitely healing assurance that there is dawn after dusk. Here’s my rendition to this feeling, through my selfportrait, Nature’s Hug.

My Design Strategy

The process of painting on a canvas might look simple on the outside, but in reality it takes a lot of thinking and brainstorming before putting down every brushstroke. Designing this composition was slightly tricky, since I wanted to show detailed work in the background but had to make sure to not overdo it as well. One of the main design aspects for this painting was to establish a contrast between the greens of the leaves in the background and the warmer flesh tones in the center. I composed the flowers in light values and hues so as to attract the viewers’ attention to the core of the painting: her face. I also wanted to bring out the expression on the face and to highlight that, the edges around her hair and dress were blurred, while keeping those around her face sharp.

My Working Process

Generally, I draw a few rough sketches in pencil to explore the composition and then paint a few color studies. It’s only after

I feel confident of the mental picture of my painting that I proceed. However, for this one, I could literally envision my final painting and I reverse-engineered it to get there! I blocked in the lights and darks after drawing basic shapes. I began by applying earthy tones for the darker areas of the skin. Then, in the process of adding correct values and colors, sharpening the details and keeping the drawing as accurate as possible, the forms began taking shape. Finally, once I was satisfied with the results and the oils dried off, a nice coat of varnish sealed the deal, preparing it for the test of time.

Contact Details

Email: dhwani.parekh20@gmail.com

Website: www.dhwaniparekh.com