In the Studio with Maryland Artist Varada (Vivi) Vaidya
Today, we’re going In the Studio with Maryland artist Varada (Vivi) Vaidya. Varada’s artwork was recently on display in the Chesapeake Arts Center’s Our Maryland Gallery exhibit.
Originally from India, Varada Vaidya moved to Maryland in 2015. Her background is in atmospheric science and she works as science support at NASA/Goddard. (How cool!) Though she has no formal training in art, her pieces are fabulous and her talent is inherent. Varada works in many mediums and each type of work that she creates has its own unique style. Her painted sticks are very graphic with a very bold use of color and air of the side of playfulness; Her oil paintings and pastel drawings tend to sway more toward realism with tighter lines and wonderful use of shadowing; And her hand-painted vases and vessels illustrate her heritage with their detailed patterns and fine lines.
Here’s Varada talking about her art, process and experience...
What art do you most identify with?
I identify with realistic style art, art that is detailed oriented and displays skills. I do not identify with art that I don’t understand. If ‘what is it’ is the first question that comes to my mind when I am looking at an art, I realize that I am not able to understand and identify with that art.
When did you realize you were an artist?
I realized it as a schoolgirl. I used to copy Mickey mouse and other cartoons and make my own stickers to display on my closet door.
How did you get into your art/side-gig?
Although I have been painting for few years, after coming to Maryland in 2015, I started participating in exhibitions and I started working on painting tree branches. As they are unique, they got selected by the jurors.
What are you currently working on?
I am currently working on researching new themes for my next painted branches. I am also working on another branch with ‘Kalamkari’ theme.
What's your favorite piece of artwork that you have created and why?
I have two favorite pieces of artworks in 2 different mediums (pictures attached). One is a tiger painting, which is oil on canvas. I painted a furry animal for the first time, and I liked how it turned out. My other favorite artwork is one of my recent painted branches with ‘Kalamkari’ theme. I like the color combination and detailed work on that piece.
What food, drink, song inspires you?
I like Indian food. Chai tea is my favorite drink and I listen to Indian music. As I grew up in India, I relate to and enjoy Indian food and music.
What memorable responses have you had to your work?
I always feel proud when my mother likes my paintings. A college roommate of mine wanted to scan my oil paintings and print them on paper (it was the time of flip phones with low resolution cameras) because she loved them and wanted a copy.
What work do you most enjoy creating?
I like to experiment with art. I explore my ability to produce certain effects in my artwork. I enjoy creating such art, where I am trying something new – a new type of art or a new technique – for the first time.
What’s your favorite quote?
‘Everything happens for the best.’
What role does the artist have in society?
Artists spread beauty and happiness. Artists are creative, innovative people. They invoke feelings in others.
What’s your dream job?
My dream job would be to create a piece of art that make me feel proud.
Is there any local artist that Inspires you? If so, who and why?
I like realistic style paintings. I once happen to walk through an ongoing painting class session taught by David Zuccarini, at the Howard County Arts Council building. I was very impressed by the work by all the participants. Everyone was working on oil paintings that were painted in a realistic style. I am hoping to learn from him in near future.
Why art?
Art is a soothing, stress buster activity for me. It satisfies my creative side and stimulates my brain. It makes me feel good.
For more information on Varada and her intricate paintings, check out her website: http://varadavaidya.wordpress.com/.
