Hasta La Creative!

Priya is a smiling, happy, sometimes crazy and eccentric, self-taught artist. She quit her HR job in 2011 to pursue what makes her happiest: Art. She illustrates and processes her inner and outer experiences in bright, lively colors.

Why are you an Illustrator?
I realized that illustrating allows me to express myself, my inner experiences and sub-conscious thought processes. I consider my illustrations to be a parallel world which I create and live in. And most importantly it makes and keeps me very happy

Did you attend school for fine art or design?
No, I am completely self-taught.

You have a distinct style of illustration. How long did it take you to develop your style?
When I started I simply illustrated without knowing anything about styles or techniques. But artist friends have remarked that they’ve seen a distinct style emerging. My style is still evolving and I believe it will continue to as I evolve too.

Were there any particular role models for you when you grew up?
Not particularly. But I’m grateful to my Art teacher in school for recognizing my potential appreciating my work in school.

Who was the most influential personality on your career in Illustrations?
The most influential person has been my husband for encouraging me to pursue my dreams. He is truly the wind beneath my wings!

What made you decide to become a freelance illustrator? When did you start freelancing? Do you illustrate for advertising?
I started my enterprise Purple Soul in August 2012 so that I could work on my own ideas and I started illustrating in February 2013. I’ve been a freelancer ever since I quit my HR job. Freelancing gives me an opportunity to be selective about what I would like to work on. I’ve illustrated for short stories, posters, cartoon strips and calendars, and advertising is surely something I would love to illustrate for.

Are many advertising agencies getting illustrations made these days? Do you work more with agencies or publishers?
I have seen agencies getting illustrations made. However I have worked more with publishers.

Was there any time when you wanted to quit Illustrations?
No, never, because I’ve taken the longer route to Art and now I know this is what makes me the happiest.

Have you considered turning your illustrations into toys?
Not yet.

Any other Indian Illustrators who you admire?
I admire and respect each and every illustrator for their work. After all everyone as his/her own unique style of illustrating. But if I were to name a few, they would be Shilo Shiv Suleman, Raghava KK, Sebin Simon, Archan Nair…and the list would go on…

Do you have any favorite fellow illustrators or resources relating to your fields?
Pinterest has been a good resource where I have seen some great work.

You have such a wide experience as a top working professional. What advice do you have for aspiring creative professionals. Would you advise them to take on Illustration as a career option? Is it paying well enough?
I have myself just started and have a long way to go, but for those aspiring to take up art/illustration I would say follow your heart and do not procrastinate like how I did. I believe that if you love what you do, money too will soon follow.

Mac or PC?
PC for now.

Who would you like to take out for dinner?
My husband. And if he is busy, then Richard Gere or Tom Hanks.

What’s on your iPod?
Santana, Pink Martini, The Beatles, Prem Joshua, Yanni, Roxette, Mariah Carey, Diana Krall.

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