“Art is a lifelong pursuit—that belief guided me when I chose to become a full-time artist. There are no fixed rules to succeed in this field; only sincerity and passion can take you forward. For me, that journey is rooted in Nirmal paintings, a traditional art form from the town of Nirmal in Telangana, dating back to the Kakatiya dynasty. Preserving its legacy while bringing in a fresh perspective has become my purpose.
I come from an agricultural family, and my father worked in the government health department. While art wasn’t a direct family profession, a few relatives were creatively inclined, which helped me discover my interest early. My school, Sri Saraswathi Sishu Mandir, played an important role in nurturing it, as I actively took part in extracurricular activities.
One of the strongest influences in my life has been my Guruji, Shri Ravinder Sharma from Adilabad, a metal craftsman who travelled across villages to understand local art forms. Through him, I was exposed to tribal life and culture. I was deeply fascinated by his work, and those experiences shaped my artistic vision. The raw beauty of nature, greenery, wildlife, and the simplicity of rural life around me became my biggest inspiration.
Like any parent, my father wanted me to choose a stable career. I respected his wishes and appeared for entrance exams, but I continued painting in my free time—and even sold a few works without his knowledge. After marriage, I tried running a stationery business, but my heart remained in art. That realization pushed me to take a bold step—to pursue Nirmal paintings full-time.
With the constant support of my family and friends, I participated in art shows and exhibitions across India. Over time, my work found appreciation from buyers across the country.
What makes my art unique is its rootedness in rural life and everyday village scenes—presented with a subtle contemporary, westernised touch. I feel grateful that I could stay true to my passion and contribute to this beautiful art form. For me, art is not just a profession—it is a lifelong journey of learning, expression, and joy.”
— Thota Laxmi Narayana, Nirmal Artist