Art is a beautiful field, and with a little passion, one can create absolutely stunning things. One such artist who has made art a major part of her life is Archana Bhardwaj, an Indian expat living in Qatar. Walk into the Souq Waqif Art Center today, and you might just spot her making one of her creations there.

For the latest edition of Qommunity Voices, the ILoveQatar.net (ILQ) team caught up with the artist to learn about her passion for the arts and how Qatar has inspired her work. Let's go!

ILQ: Tell us a little bit about yourself and what you do.

Archana: I am Archana Bhardwaj, an Indian expat working at Souq Waqif Art Center for over 10 years as an artist. My education includes a Bachelor in Fine Arts, a Master in Fine Arts & a Master In Philosophy in printmaking from an Indian University. I am married and have two kids. Freelancing at the Souq Waqif Art Center gives me more freedom and liberty to express myself through art.

ILQ: What inspired you to start painting, and how did you get into it?

Archana: I believe I was a born artist. I've always been attracted to flowers, vivid colours and nature's beauty. Art was my main subject in school and it continued even through my college days until my post graduation. I couldn't detach myself from the arts.

ILQ: Why do you love what you do?

Archana: Painting is the only thing I know how to do, and it gives me the power and energy to express myself and bring out my inner strength. Every time I paint, I feel like my mind, body and soul become one to bring out the best possible output for my capacity.

ILQ: What does your creative process entail, and what mediums do you use?

Archana: I work with mediums like acrylic, watercolours and oil paints. I like experimenting with different mediums to get the best results. I usually like to paint natural beauty in watercolours, make portraits with oil paints for longlasting results and to bring out the vividness and acrylic paints for realistic subjects.

ILQ: How do you think your art stands out from the rest?

Archana: Every artist is best in their own style. I believe my creativity and experimentation make me stand out from the rest. Since I love to paint portraits, it gives me the freedom to play with colours. Abstract painting, on the other hand, can't be copied by anyone else. I feel like these things make my art different.

ILQ: What is your biggest achievement as an artist so far?

Archana: I have received many recognitions, such as Best Artist of Souq Waqif Art Center and Best Artist of my college. I have been recognized by different organizations within and outside Qatar. But nothing can top the appreciation and face-to-face compliments from the lovers of my art.

ILQ: What are some of your most memorable paintings, and why?

Archana: My abstract paintings are some of my most memorable creations as I make them completely from my imagination.

ILQ: What are your future goals with respect to the work you do?

Archana: My goal is to continue to teach and train new artists who are interested in the field. I already teach a number of students of all age groups and encourage them to paint in their own way and bring their imagination to the canvas. I'm also part of many groups where we exchange the latest techniques and trends in the field of arts to improve our work.

ILQ: Do you do other art forms apart from painting?

Archana: Apart from painting on canvas and murals, I also paint on pure silk and georgette fabrics for many customers. I always try to push my boundaries when it comes to my work to create something new out of it.

ILQ: How has the country of Qatar inspired your art?

Archana: The country gives artists the freedom and encouragement to express themselves through art. Qatar also has many artists living and working form the country, and this is where my art bloomed to its full potential.

ILQ: What's your message for upcoming artists?

Archana: I see that many artists and students are self motivated and are doing a brilliant job in Qatar. My message to them is just to keep exploring new techniques and methods and bring them onto the canvas!

Follow Archana Bhardwaj here:

• Instagram: @archana_bhardwaj

Do you know of someone who has exceptional talent or is making a difference in our Qatar community? Drop us a line in the comments below, and you could see them highlighted in our next Qommunity Voices!

Cover image credit: Archana Bhardwaj

Follow us on our social media channels: @ILQlive @ILQlive @ILoveQtr ILoveQatar

Vrinda Abilash

Start a discussion