Art is the language that speaks when words fall silent. Every stroke of the brush is a whisper of the artist’s heart.
Born: Port Louis, Mauritius
@dartshinee | FB: dartshinee | www.dartshinee.com
INTERVIEW
Tell us what shaped you as an artist, considering that you started your creative journey as a Graphic Designer?
My push into graphic design was a self-taught endeavour, driven by my passion for visual arts and a keen interest in digital tools. Utilising resources like YouTube tutorials, I mastered applications such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. This self-driven learning process not only honed my technical skills but also instilled a strong sense of independence and resourcefulness in me.
After my graduation, I was recruited by a textile factory to work as a graphic designer, focusing on creating artworks for T-shirts. My background in drawing and fine arts seamlessly integrated with digital design, allowing me to create intricate and appealing designs using the graphic design softwares. I also gained valuable insights into the serigraphy process and textile printing techniques.
My artistic background made it easier to grasp the complexities of color theory and its application in textile design. This experience reinforced my understanding of how colors interact and the importance of color harmony in design.
In summary, my journey from a self-taught graphic designer to a fine artist has been shaped by continuous learning, practical experiences, and a deep passion for the arts.
Continuing on the theme of passion for art, we would like to know what drew your attention to teaching? You have been teaching in the field of art for over 10 years, which is impressive!
During my formative years, I was fortunate to have inspiring art teachers who not only nurtured my talent but also ignited my passion for the subject. Their encouragement and guidance played a significant role in my decision to pursue a career in the arts, and I aspired to have a similar impact on future generations.
Art has always been a central part of my life, and teaching allows me to stay deeply connected to it. Sharing my knowledge and passion for art with students brings immense joy and fulfilment. Watching them develop their skills and express their creativity is incredibly rewarding as I know this will benefit them in all areas of their lives.
Teaching art is a dynamic and evolving process. Each student brings a unique perspective and set of challenges, which keeps the teaching experience fresh and engaging. This continuous learning environment not only benefits the students but also enhances my own artistic growth and keeps me inspired.
Finally, the sense of accomplishment I feel when I see my students succeed and grow as artists is unparalleled.
Despite your experience as an artist and teacher, you continue to improve and educate yourself. How does your learning affect your work and understanding of the world?
I constantly learn new techniques and tools, whether traditional or digital. This keeps my artwork fresh and innovative. This ongoing education allows me to experiment with different mediums, styles and approaches, leading to a more diverse and enriched body of work. I also stay updated with the latest trends in art and design to ensure that my work remains relevant and appealing to contemporary audiences. This awareness helps me integrate modern aesthetics and concepts into my art.
I also embrace new technologies of graphic design to blend traditional art with digital innovation seamlessly. Continuous professional development in education techniques enables me to adopt innovative teaching methods. This makes my classes more engaging and effective, catering to different learning styles and needs.
Your works are very multifaceted and international. Where do you draw your inspiration from?
My inspiration comes from experiences and influences that have shaped my creative journey.
Childhood memories play a significant role in fueling my imagination. Growing up, I was surrounded by vibrant colors, sounds, and scenes that left a lasting imprint on my mind.
Simple moments and vibrant festivities are etched in my memory and often find their way into my paintings.
Stories and myths narrated by my grandparents are another profound source of inspiration. Their tales, steeped in cultural wisdom and moral lessons, sparked my curiosity and creativity from a young age. By incorporating these stories into my work, I aim to keep these traditions alive and share their beauty with a broader, international audience and hope to bridge cultural gaps and foster a greater understanding and appreciation of my heritage.
Lastly, instrumental music by the maestro like A. R. Rahman, deeply influences my creative process. The soulful melodies of the flute, the emotive strains of the violin, and the intricate compositions transport me to different realms of emotion and imagination. Listening to these pieces while painting allows me to infuse my work with a rhythm and harmony.
Let’s talk about your achievements and exhibitions. Your works have been exhibited internationally, and you have won several awards. Which event do you consider the most important or impressive?
I feel fortunate and grateful for the recognition and opportunities my work has received over the years. Among the various exhibitions and awards, a few stand out as particularly significant milestones in my career.
One of the most memorable and important events was my winning the 1st prize in a competition in Georgia, USA. This achievement was a turning point, as it marked my first major international showcase. The opportunity to present my work in such a renowned country, surrounded by the rich artistic heritage, was both exhilarating and humbling. The positive reception from critics was incredibly affirming and encouraged me to continue pushing the boundaries of my creativity.
Also, being selected and featured in International Magazines has been an incredibly rewarding experience and was also a highlight of my career. Publications such as GoddessArt Magazine, Upward Gallery, Modern Renaissance and Artist Talk have showcased my work, providing a global platform for my art. These features have not only increased my visibility but also connected me with a diverse audience and fellow artists worldwide.
What advice would you give to a newcomer in the art field? What contributes the most to development – language skills, multifaceted education, or experience?
Authenticity is key in art. Stay true to your unique style, voice, and vision. Dedicate time each day or week to creating art, even if it’s just for a short period. The more you practice, the more you’ll grow as an artist.
Look beyond local opportunities and actively seek out international exhibitions, art fairs, and competitions that align with your artistic style and vision.
Also, ensure that your submissions for international exhibitions are well-prepared and tailored to the specific themes and requirements of each event.
Keep experimenting with new techniques and exploring diverse subjects.
Lastly, participating in international exhibitions and competitions may require persistence and patience. Keep pushing forward and stay determined, don’t let setbacks deter you from pursuing those opportunities.
You should not be afraid to share your work with others and seek feedback from fellow artists, mentors, or online communities. Constructive criticism can help you identify areas for improvement and gain valuable insights into your work.
Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you—actively promote your work and yourself as an artist.