Meet Katyayini Singh Waghela, the young scioness of Sanand as she expresses her budding journey as a mixed media artist. An Ahmedabad-based law student, Katyayini finds solace from her hectic schedule by immersing into this dynamic form of art.
Her initial roots as a young photographer from her schooling days in Mayo, as well as the artistic inclinations of both her parents have unitedly driven her into this artistic pursuit which is both, a hobby as well as Katyayini’s homage to her homeland.
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Rajputana Collective shares the budding artist's unique perspective in an exclusive interview : -
Rajputana Collective (RC): You have created some innovative portraits in 3D. As a photographer, what made you undergo this shift in dimension? Katyayini Sinh Waghela (KSW): I have always been passionate about art. My father, Late Maharana Jaishiv Sinh Waghela of Sanand was a wildlife photographer and my mother, Ranisaheb Sridatri Sinh Waghela of Sanand a painter; and this prompted my interest in these forms of art. My shift towards 3D dimensions took place after exploring different art forms and mediums so that I could bring the pictures to life and show my story on canvas.
RC: Your newer works represent mixed media art pieces. What is your understanding of mixed media work? What inspired you to pursue it? KSW: In my understanding, art is limitless. It has no borders, it allows the artist to explore different avenues thus bringing authenticity to their work. Art mediums transcend life forms to a different level, vision and thought to be shared by the viewers individually. For me, mixed media art has served as an ideal medium wherin I can use various mediums such as jewellery artefacts, safas, saris, textile and various forms or embroidery to portray the desired effect of our rich culture and tradition. I was introduced to mixed media art by curators, Mrs. Ritu Singh and Mr. Surya Singh, who lead the Wolf Jaipur. Working with them on a few occasions inspired me to explore this form of art through my own perspective.
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RC: You seem to have a very hectic schedule due to your specialised profession around law. How do you prioritise art therein?
KSW: Art is my getaway, a space where I let out my thoughts and be myself in solace, away from my hectic life. I believe in balancing my profession with my hobbies. Pursuing one’s hobbies is very necessary and something that one should not let go of. I try taking time out for my art at night after my working hours and on the weekends, and this space truly exhilarates me.
RC: Is there any reason that restraints you from pursuing art full time? If so, what and why?
KSW: There is no reason for my not pursuing art full time. I did not study art academically in order to become an artist. It grew on me gradually as I pursued my degree in law.
RC: Is there any native element from Sanand that you maintain in your expression of art?
KSW: Sanand is known for its background in classical music and religious spirituality. Being in this environment has inspired me to illustrate photographs and paintings of our deities that I often visualise in my thoughts. I am also inspired by my native roots to revive the dying art that was earlier pursued by various artisans for different patrons.
The auspicious moli (sacred thread) which I have around my right wrist is considered to be very sacred and wards off evil in our religious tradition. I often use the moli in my artworks to accentuate the portrayal of the paintings of deities and photographs that I have clicked.
When I exhibit my artworks on social media, my music selection adds vibrancy to the artworks and rejuvenates the culture and classical tradition that Sanand stands for.
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RC: Lastly, what is the road ahead for you in your art journey? Are there any pieces/ exhibitions in the pipeline? KSW: My journey with art is inseparable. I will continue to hold exhibitions from time to time and hope that the viewers enjoy it as much as i enjoy working on them.
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Art is limitless. It has no borders, it allows the artist to explore different avenues thus bringing authenticity to their work. Art mediums transcend life forms to a different level, vision and thought to be shared by the viewers individually. For me, mixed media art has served as an ideal medium wherin I can use various mediums such as jewellery artefacts, safas, saris, textile and various forms or embroidery to portray the desired effect of our rich culture & tradition.
![](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4052b2_0fa5ce33c9ad443abefe90602a1ca606~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_49,h_65,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,blur_2,enc_auto/4052b2_0fa5ce33c9ad443abefe90602a1ca606~mv2.png)
![](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4052b2_10d026179d554f9d9501343abb9b7225~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_147,h_196,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,blur_2,enc_auto/4052b2_10d026179d554f9d9501343abb9b7225~mv2.jpg)
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