“Art has been a part of my life in ways I didn’t expect, but looking back, I realize it was always there. As a child, I was always drawn towards art and craft, actively participating in school competitions and projects. It was something I enjoyed but never thought much about. Years later, during my B.Tech in Civil Engineering, it unexpectedly became more than just a hobby. During a college break, I picked up a brush out of curiosity. I didn’t have any prior training or guidance- just a desire to try something new. YouTube and Google became my teachers, and I have spent hours experimenting. Slowly, I found myself falling in love with painting.

One of my first works was a painting about the struggles women face. It was personal and close to my heart. I submitted it in a competition, not to win, but to express something that mattered, but has also won jury award which has given me some confidence . Around the same time, I participated in an exhibition. I was nervous and unsure if anyone would even look at my work. When three of my paintings got sold, it felt like my efforts had meaning. It wasn’t about the money- it was about seeing that my art could resonate with others.

For a while, life took over. Between preparing for Civil Services and other responsibilities, painting became something I did occasionally to unwind. Then, one day, a close friend and well wisher Manoj Aavula asked me to teach art to his daughter. I wasn’t sure if I could do it- I had never taught anyone before. But he believed I could, so I gave it a try. That small step changed everything. It eventually grew into workshops, commissioned projects, live paintings and a steady art practice. I started experimenting with new styles—landscapes, wood log paintings , mandala art, mini canvas paintings, portraits, bottle art, and more. Every piece was a challenge, but also a new way to express myself.

One of the most memorable moments was creating handmade decorations for St. John’s Church in Secunderabad this Christmas season. It was a week of hard work, late nights, and detailed designs, but my family stood by me the entire time. Their support made it possible.

Now, I’m an art teacher at St. Andrews School. My days are spent teaching high school students, evenings are for commissioned work, and weekends are for private classes. A year ago, I even set up a stall at my sister’s school Christmas carnival, the response of which had motivated to do something more in this field.

My family has been my biggest strength. They’ve encouraged me and supported me at every step. My mother has always helped me with changes and modifications and guided me towards perfection. I know not everyone is lucky to have a supporting family. So many people let go of their passions because of life’s pressures. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: if you hold on to what you love, it will find a way to grow.”

– Sai Deepika Gunnam, Artist, Teacher