Anchored in engineering, sailing with art: artist Gayathridevi speaks

 “Art has been an integral part of my life since childhood,” says Gayathridevi. “My passion for creativity was nurtured by my grandfather, a talented artist and a dedicated headmaster, whose influence left a lasting impression on me.” Growing up, she was drawn to colours, textures, “and the magic of bringing ideas to life through art.” The early inspiration laid the foundation for her artistic journey. Though her academic path led her to a B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering and an M.Tech in Thermal Engineering, her heart was always in art.

“To follow my passion, I pursued a Diploma in Fine Arts, which allowed me to refine my skills and take my love for art to a professional level,” says the artist, now based in the UAE. Over the past 10 years, she has developed expertise as a mixed media artist, creating works in graphite, charcoal, soft and oil pastels, acrylics, oils, abstract art, colour pencil portraits, Lippan art, and textured painting. Alongside her artistic practice, she has been conducting online art classes and workshops for children, aged 6-15 years.

“My dedication to art was recognised when I received the ‘Best Mixed Media Artist Award 2024’ from Hayat Arts at the Mirage Awards,” Gayathridevi says. “This prestigious honour marked a significant milestone in my career.” She speaks to Gulf Today

Why did you take up engineering, if you were more interested in art?

I pursued engineering because it provided a strong foundation in problem-solving and technical knowledge, which complemented my artistic sensibilities. My interest in art has always been a personal passion, but engineering allowed me to develop analytical skills and explore structured creativity. Teaching engineering-drawing and machine-drawing to mechanical students and engineering-drawing to aeronautical students, gave me the opportunity to bridge the gap between technical precision and artistic expression, enriching both my professional and artistic journeys.

Still life by Gayathridevi.

Has engineering helped you make art? If so, how?

It has taught me to focus on details - which is very useful for creating realistic and precise artworks such as portraits. Learning technical drawing in engineering improved my understanding of shapes, forms and perspectives, which I use to make my art look accurate and balanced. Engineering also taught me to solve problems and think creatively; it helps when I try new techniques or work on challenging art projects. It gave me skills such as precision and structure, which I combine with creativity, to make my art unique.

Do you see similarities in the Lippan art of India and Emirati art, since both are related to desert culture?

Yes, there are similarities between Lippan art of India and Emirati art, as both are influenced by desert culture. For example, Lippan art uses mud and mirrors, while Emirati art often features sand-inspired textures and natural patterns. Both emphasise intricate and symmetrical patterns, reflecting the harmony of desert life. Both are traditional art forms passed down through generations, preserving the identity of desert communities. While the materials and styles differ, both celebrate the beauty and resilience of desert living.

Artwork by Gayathridevi.

How different is a teacher of art and a practitioner of art?

A teacher of art focuses on guiding others to learn and improve their artistic skills. They explain techniques, share knowledge and help students discover their own creativity. A practitioner of art focuses on creating their own work. They spend time experimenting, expressing ideas, and developing their unique style. While a teacher helps others grow, a practitioner focuses on their personal artistic journey.

How different is showing art digitally and physically?

Showing art digitally means sharing it online through websites, social media, or virtual galleries. It reaches a global audience quickly and is easy to update; but viewers may miss the texture, size and true details of the artwork.

Showing art physically means displaying it in galleries, exhibitions or events, where people can see it up close.

It creates a stronger connection with the audience, as they can experience better the colours, textures and scale. But it’s limited to those who can visit the location. Both ways have their advantages, and many artists use a mix to share their work.

Why do like to use bright and bold colours in your artwork?

I use bright and bold colours because they bring energy and life to my artwork. They help express emotions, make my art stand out, and create a strong connection with the viewer. Bold colours reflect my love for vibrancy and positivity.

Gayathridvei is based in the Emirates.

What aspects of the Emirates will make good subjects for art, according to you?

The Emirates has many inspiring subjects for art. The vast dunes, golden sands and unique patterns of the desert, are beautiful and calming. Old wind towers, forts and mosques, showcase the region’s rich history and culture.

The stunning skyscrapers, like the Burj Khalifa, reflect progress and innovation. Traditional crafts, clothing, and markets (souks) offer colourful and detailed scenes.

The Arabian Gulf, with its blue waters and dhows (traditional boats), adds a serene touch. These elements capture the balance between tradition and modernity, making them perfect for artistic exploration.

Why do you like to paint traditional subjects?

I like to paint traditional subjects because they connect me to my roots and culture. They tell stories of the past and by painting them, I can preserve these traditions and share their beauty and importance with others. Traditional subjects also inspire me with their rich details and timeless appeal.