Painting for me is an ageless affair, says Sushma Jain

The Indian wildlife and landscape artist who recently showcased her work at World Art Dubai tells us how eyes are the most important element in her realistic paintings

We are animal lovers. But of the sweet, furry and small variety. All the big untamed wild ones can live in faraway lands, thank you very much. However, it cannot be denied that they are an inseparable part of the beauty of nature, and life.
We might have exactly zero artistic talent to capture this beauty and showcase it to the world. But Sushma Jain is doing us all a favour. The Indian wildlife and landscape artist's work focuses on sensitizing people to the importance of wildlife protection and conservation. By presenting landscapes that are unspoiled, she likes to drive home the point of being conscious about our natural resources.
A passionate aficionado of art since her childhood, Jain, 60, was reluctant to showcase her talent and primarily focused on her family and marriage. Now, her children having settled, with kids and lives of their own, she is taking the reins on her career and pursuing the dreams she had put on the sidelines. 
With a background in multiple art courses from various universities in Mumbai and London, she has amassed a wealth of experience and an eye for detail that is unparalleled.
Jain's paintings have a photographic feel to them and capture the raw and pristine beauty of the world that is untouched by human intervention.
All of her art pieces transport you to the setting; they make you feel like the tiger is looking into your soul; you can almost feel the slight breeze in the middle of the vast open field with Feather Reed grass gently grazing your outstretched palm; they convince you that you are walking among the elephants under a great Indian sunset sky.
But of course, none of this was known or felt by the world until only very recently. Jain's two children are the ones we owe our thanks to. For her 60th birthday, her children gifted her 'A Tale Untold,' her first solo exhibition showcasing a collection of 34 paintings that she worked on over the span of 30 years. Her close friend Nita Ambani (wife of Indian business magnate Mukesh Ambani) has also been a driving force in encouraging her to showcase her talent.
Having many of her paintings sold in just the first few minutes of the exhibition and getting rave reviews for her superb depiction of wildlife, she made her way to the recently held World Art Dubai to share her exquisite artwork with the art lovers of the Middle East. Here she talks about her inspirations, being a late bloomer in the art world, her experience at the art fair and more. Here are some excerpts from our conversation:
Your work sensitizes us to the importance of wildlife protection and conservation. How did this 'wild' journey begin?  
I have an inherent love for animals. Usually people like domestic animals, but when I see wild animals, I fall in love with them and feel a connection with them.
What inspires you to create such moving art pieces?
My current collection 'Life Beyond' is completely inspired by nature, animals and wildlife. Over the years, I have been to many wildlife reserves and visuals from those travels are etched in my memory. The animals in their full glory, in the natural environment, untouched by humans - it's a treat for my eyes. I feel really happy watching them and trying to bring those emotions on to the canvas.
Who are some of your favourite artists?
I've always admired the work of MF Hussain, NS Bendre, Vincent Van Gogh and Monet.
What held you back from showing the world your work?
I've always painted and used to gift my artwork to friends and family. Family has always been a priority to me and I wanted to spend time with them. My husband and my children have been the driving force behind me and encouraged me to showcase my work.
Most of your paintings have a photographic feel to them. How do you portray such life-like animals and make landscapes look utterly real? 
My style of painting is realistic and eyes are an important element when painting in a realistic style. In every portrait that I've painted, you will notice a life-like glint and reflection in the eyes of the animals. It gives an impression that they're staring at you from every angle thereby making them appear convincingly alive.
Similarly in landscapes, I try to capture every element of the scene in detail which makes you feel you're in the presence of nature.
Do you think love for art is inherent in us or can it be developed through training?
Painting for me is an ageless affair. Easel and colours have held magic and passion for me, ever since I was a little girl.
How does it feel now to have unparalleled support from critics and the common man alike?
It's a very humbling feeling to receive so much love and admiration from everyone. But for me, it's never been about selling my art. I find more joy when I see people having the same passion and love for animals as I do, after seeing my paintings.
 
Sushma on World Art Dubai
"It has been a great experience at World Art Dubai. Interacting with artists from all across the globe and seeing such different forms of artwork is really amazing. Everything about Dubai is amazing. It's a wonder how it's been converted from a desert to a heaven. It's always been a second home to me and I love it for its rich culture and hospitality," she said.
 
 
neha@khaleejtimes.com 

• Dubai