“In school, I enjoyed drawing, but I got more serious about it during college. While most of my classmates saw record books as a chore, I enjoyed working on the diagrams—whether it was botany or anatomy. It was one thing I didn’t mind spending extra time on.

My father is both an artist and a poet, and his support played a big role. He encouraged me to see creativity in small things. I’d look at kitchen waste or scrap material and wonder what I could make out of it. I started experimenting with eggshells, empty liquor bottles, pieces of wood—turning them into something artistic.

Over time, I explored other forms like zentangle, abstract work, wooden decor, clay modelling, canvas painting, and more recently, acrylic and oil painting. I also create hand-painted diyas during festive seasons. Most of what I’ve learnt has been self-taught—through YouTube, and constant trial and error.

In 2014, I started my own studio, Shruthi Sripada Creations, in Hyderabad. I began receiving orders through my website, then got invitations to put up stalls at exhibitions, teach at workshops, and even speak at schools. I’ve conducted sessions for children at orphanages and elders in care homes as well.

I tend to work quietly for long hours. I don’t like leaving anything halfway. Even when I travel, I look for local crafts and visual art that inspire me. Those little discoveries help me evolve.

My family has always stood by me. My father, my husband, and close friends have all been a part of this journey. Their encouragement gave me the space to pursue this full-time along with my corporate career.

Someday, I’d love to open a bigger space to display my work and welcome more people into the world of art. But for now, I’m happy doing what I love at my own pace.”

• Shruthi Sripara, Artist