Sijin Gopinathan doodles way to fame, dreams of better world

Muhammad Yusuf, Features Writer

Dubai-based doodle artist Sijin Gopinathan says that art has the ability to transform people. “Many have realised that artworks can motivate action,” he says. “With my art, I intend to change people into acting positively.” He is among the new generation of artists who combine art and technology. He was the first one in the GCC region to conduct a live mural show with a robot, much to the delight of Gitex Technology Week in Dubai (2018). He recently launched “Doodling Dreams”, his debut book, which offers a glimpse into the life of a young artist who carved his path to international acclaim through the medium of doodle art.

The volume depicts personal struggles, including the loss of loved ones, which significantly impacted his artistic journey. He then discovered the therapeutic power of doodling, finding solace and faithful expression in the simplicity of black and white lines.The book also chronicles his experiences in Dubai, where he faced new challenges and opportunities. “Doodling Dreams” additionally deals with some of the most heartbreaking events of recent times, such as the Kerala floods and the Gaza war. Sijin Gopinathan sketches his answers on Gulf Today’s canvas

  Sijin Gopinathan with his book.

What does doodling give you that other art forms cannot?

Early on, I experimented with various mediums, including oil painting, acrylics, pencil drawing and digital art. However, to make the most of my limited time as a professional interactive designer, I decided to focus on a simpler art form: doodling. Weekends and travel provided opportunities to create quick doodle sketches. In 2014, when there weren’t many doodle artists in the region, I seized the chance to curate the first-ever doodle art exhibition at Dubai City Walk. The positive reception encouraged me to explore the art form further.

Doodling is more associated with children than adults. Are you happy to be in their company?

You’re absolutely right! I intentionally keep my doodle style simple and accessible, so it resonates with people of all ages, children to adults. This has led to numerous opportunities to conduct doodle art workshops for schools in the UAE. I’ve facilitated over 25 workshops, reaching more than 6,000 students. Each session typically attracts between 300 and 400 students, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. Working with children helps me maintain a fresh perspective and retain a childlike sense of wonder, essential for continuous learning and creativity.

Can you provide us some of your career highlights?

Praveen Gopinath (renowned UAE fashion designer, who worked for AR Rahman Jai Ho show and other big brands), who is a dear friend and colleague, often mentions that my live painting of a Mini Cooper at World Art Dubai in 2021, was my best work so far. It’s true that I haven’t created anything quite as impactful since then. That event was a breakthrough, not only in the region, but also as an inspiration for other artists to involve themselves in similar live painting performances.

 High detailing in an artwork.

I’ve embarked on a project to create a portrait of 300 living people on a single canvas. I have travelled throughout the Emirates, spending over a year, capturing faces from diverse backgrounds. This piece is an anti-war effort and serves as a symbol of unity among different nationalities. The project allows me to connect with people from various walks of life and learn their stories. It’s a departure from the digital world of social media, and a return to the authenticity of real-life interactions. This year, I had the opportunity to work with Yash Raj Films on the Shah Rukh Khan movie, Pathaan. I created artwork for the merchandise, including a jacket design. I also had the chance to contribute to the Malayalam film, GU, by creating the three-minute title sequence.

Is art merely a therapy for you or has it other sides?

Art has been my meditation and therapy, a source of solace and fulfillment. The joy and satisfaction I derive from creating genuine artwork is incomparable. It’s a powerful antidote to emptiness and despair.

How is the reception to doodling in India and the UAE, respectively?

My artistic journey began in India when I was in sixth grade. I attended an art school and after each class, I would show my artwork to my uncle, a driver. He would share my work with his colleagues: they always offered genuine praise. This early encouragement, coming from ordinary people, was incredibly motivating. When I moved to the UAE, my black and white doodle style resonated with the Emirati dress code, which is also predominantly black and white. This connection helped me establish myself here, and I was eventually given the title ‘Doodle Rockstar’.

One can compose doodles in colour too. Why don’t you do so?

I discovered that black was a powerful colour that resonated with me emotionally. I also realised I didn’t need a multitude of colours to express myself. I prefer the simplicity and depth of monochromatic art with just a marker and pen, to the luxury of vibrant colours.

Your book doodles nightmares more than dreams. So the title should be changed. Can you comment?

Nightmares often haunt my dreams, serving as poignant reminders of our mortality and brevity of life. These intimations fuel my desire to make the most of every moment and strive for continuous growth, both as an artist and as a human being. Through creativity, I hope to contribute to bringing more compassion to the world.