Amidst waves of tension and anxiety during the pandemic, art has helped many in facing their fears, relieving themselves of doubts and stress, and even discovering their true calling. Gursimran Kaur is one such individual who has always felt a connection with art as the pandemic provided her the much-needed outlet to dive deeper into her strengths and experiment with the online market. She engages in making a variety of art forms, ranging from fluid art to unique mandalas!
“I believe one can achieve their goals by staying motivated, consistent and grabbing every opportunity that comes their way”, Gursimran expresses. True to her belief, she has organized a number of exhibitions, in India as well as abroad, and also takes workshops for all age groups. Furthermore, Gursimran has also participated in the world’s largest virtual art gallery at the World Book of Records UK.
Find Gursimran Kaur talk about her journey as an artist, why she considers art as a form of therapy, and a lot more, in this candid interview with Storiyaan.
GURSIMRAN KAUR- MASTERING MANDALA!
Interview
Questions and answers
1. Do you think the city/town that you belong to plays a role in influencing the type of art that you practice?
I live in Delhi, and I believe that the city has had a significant influence on my abstract painting. It is directly proportionate to the modifications and growth in interior renovations that have occurred in Delhi in recent years. Furthermore, not only Delhi but all metropolitan areas are rapidly increasing, and residents must adapt to these changes. So, certainly, abstract art is a representation of whatever is going on around us.
2. Mandala art, especially in recent years, has gained a lot of prominence. What are its benefits and some useful tips that would help those who practice this art form?
Mandala art is directly related to the Universe and that’s why this art is always in a circle and we can even manifest through the mandala. So drawing a concentric circle or repeated patterns is a good way of meditating, affirming, manifesting, and letting go of things. I recommend that new practitioners start slowly. Always begin by sketching designs using a pencil and regularly practicing them. Keep things simple and don’t be scared to experiment with color!
3. What were some of the most annoying questions and assumptions that you have come across when you first decided to pursue art professionally?
Usually, people don’t pursue their passion as a profession. There are a lot of questions and assumptions that people create in their minds and they do ask them too but with the support of my family, I was able to tackle them all. I believe if you are good enough to hold on to the opportunity you are getting then go ahead! I am thankful that I got the opportunity and I never gave up on my dreams.
If you are reading this, I want you to know that you should not care about what others say if you are happy with what you are doing.
4. Tell us the curve your artistic venture took during the pandemic and how did art help you then?
I organized an art exhibition before the pandemic. The first lockdown presented me with a lot of opportunities in the online mode such as online exhibitions which were 24×7. So I can say that it was a fruitful experience for me because I started taking art workshops during the pandemic only. There were a lot of people who showed interest and were willing to learn because I sent them kits that contained all the things they required. We also had customers who loved handmade products for festivals. It was a new experience for me and I loved every part of it!
5. How did the idea to start “Journaling-let go & heal” evolve and what are some of the benefits that people can reap from it?
Many people experienced a sequence of negative thoughts throughout the pandemic. I believe that art can be therapeutic, and I wanted to instill a clear understanding of this value in people’s brains, as well as how to use art to achieve it. So I started a course where a variety of art-related topics are covered in a fun way. Many people have manifested, validated, and let go of their fears as a result of this course, and I am pleased that I was able to assist them in doing so. Journaling can be done in a variety of ways, but it is always linked to art. It presents a positive vibe! As a result, whenever people do this, they feel good and tend to forget about their problems.
6. You have referred to art as a form of therapy often. How has it been personally beneficial for you in this matter?
I honestly feel that painting is a form of rehabilitation. Art has magical healing powers. It has done so for myself and many others in my life. Every day, I do art because it has kept me cheerful and inspired during this journey. It is quite useful when used properly. That is why, in addition to all of the enjoyable activities, I always inform my workshop participants about the true importance of art so that they understand that it can be used for more than just activity.
If you are an artist too, a beginner, or an art enthusiast willing to improve your skills, you can get in touch with Gursimran Kaur through her Instagram linked below