“I’m Drdha Vrata Gorrick, an artist who focuses on Vedic iconography. My journey in this field started under the guidance of master iconographers in South India. Over the years, I’ve worked to preserve and promote classical arts, teaching students and showcasing my work across the globe.
Though I was born in the United States, my artistic path blends both Eastern and Western techniques, all while staying grounded in Vedic traditions.
Growing up in Florida, our home was full of art—sculptures, textiles, and vibrant colours that told stories. Even though we lived in the West, my parents had a deep connection to Indian philosophy and classical traditions, which they had explored in their youth. My brother and I grew up with Indian stories, scriptures, and rituals. But while we read about the culture, it wasn’t until I visited India that I truly understood it.
When I was 15, I made my first trip to India. I’d heard the usual things—how chaotic and overwhelming it was but experiencing it firsthand was something else.
Though I travelled across India, South India truly drew me in. When I reached Mahabalipuram, I felt like I had stepped into history. The ancient temples, the intricate sculptures, and artisans working with stone and metal—it was something I had never seen before. Indian art had always fascinated me in books, but here, it felt alive. It was woven into the fabric of everyday life, and I knew I wanted to be part of that.
My parents always encouraged me to follow a meaningful path. They didn’t push me toward India, but they didn’t stop me either. They trusted me to figure things out for myself. I decided to stay in Mahabalipuram, where I became a student of traditional Indian art under master artisans. Unlike a formal school, my training was more traditional—knowledge passed down from teacher to student, just as it had been for centuries.
I spent years sketching, refining my skills, and learning the principles of iconography, proportion, and storytelling. My guru didn’t just teach me techniques; he took me to temples, explained the symbolism in every line, and shared the philosophy behind the art.
I lived in Mahabalipuram for five years, renting a small house near my teacher’s home. His family welcomed me as one of their own. During this time, I worked on various projects, including designing murtis, painting temple murals, and collaborating with artisans on large-scale works. One of my first major projects was a detailed sketch series of temple architecture, followed by a mural inside a temple, where I brought ancient stories to life through colour and form.
Over the years, I’ve experimented with different mediums—creating bronze idols using the exact measurements outlined in the Shilpa Shastras, painting on silk, and designing motifs for Kanchipuram saris. Each project has strengthened my bond with the traditions I have come to love.
Eventually, I settled in Udupi. It felt like home, with its spiritual atmosphere and landscapes. It was here that I met my wife, who shares my passion for classical art and music. She has been my greatest support, always encouraging me, even during times of doubt.
Teaching came naturally to me. My guru’s words, “If you learn, you must teach,” stayed with me, and I have made it my mission to pass on what I’ve learned. Today, I teach nearly 100 students from all over the world, through online classes. Some are experienced artists looking to refine their skills, while others are beginners drawn to the beauty of traditional Indian art. I always tell my students that talent is secondary—it’s the dedication, the curiosity, and the willingness to understand the philosophy behind the art that truly matters.”
- Drdha Vrata Gorrick, Artist & Graphic Designer