Hi, my name is Akanksha, the creator of "No Art is Original." I'm a self-taught painter and illustrator from Delhi. The love for art has been in my blood from an early age. Unlike other children, I don't recall playing with dollhouses or teddy bears; instead, my crayons and 'Camlin Six-Pack Poster Colors' were my toys.
I drew on the walls of our 'sarkari' DDA flat, on the backs of my math notebooks, and I went rogue with coloring books. But like many South Asian kids, I was told that while having a "hobby" is great, I needed to pursue a "real" education and build a career.
The following years became a blur of science and math-focused education, examinations, competition, and the transition to adulthood. Art, unfortunately, took a backseat.
Driven by my passion to experience the world firsthand, I chose to move to the US in my early twenties. After visiting New York City, I was captivated by its creativity, energy, and charm, so much so that I decided to make it my home.
However, there was always a persistent nudge, a calling I couldn't ignore. Visits to the countless museums and art galleries in New York rekindled a long-lost love for color, form, and painting.
On a whim, I bought some paints and a canvas to paint my favorite flower—the marigold! And that's how 'No Art is Original' began. I drew inspiration from my culture and life, and I began telling stories on canvas. I educated myself in art history, composition, and oil painting, even attending summer school at the Art Students League in New York.
My work constantly explores themes of nostalgia, romance, and womanhood. I’ve always been drawn to bold colors, lines, and figures, infusing my art with these elements.
My aim is to continue telling stories that bring a smile to people’s faces or encourage moments of reflection. When someone takes my art home, I feel they’re becoming a part of this extraordinary journey I’ve been fortunate enough to embark on.
For more artwork, please find me on instagram as @noartisoriginal or log onto www.akanksha-agarwal.studio.
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