Gopika Narula - IndiArt Ambassador

Gopika Narula is an artist with a passion for real flowers and leaves. All her creations are an effort to preserve their beauty. For the last many years Gopika has been creating paintings and art work using pressed real flowers, acrylics, water colors and mixed media .

All of her creations are touched by Mother Nature in a special way. She also likes to paint Landscapes, Seascapes, Still Life.
Her art work has been a part of many Solo and Group Art Shows and has been appreciated with quite a few awards- Second prize in “Lowell Art Walk 2007,” First prize award in mixed media in the Fourth of July art show 2007, and Honorable mention award in mixed media category in the Fourth of July art show 2008 and others...
Speaking of Art, she is also involved with Theater and loves to act. She has been acting in plays from last few years in addition to helping with designing promotional material as well as helping out in other areas of organizing the events.

1. Please tell us about your involvement with Art.

Art has been a big part of my life. Even though my background is in Technology, Art always had a special place. I started learning Art when I was a teenager. My mom, who is a very talented artist,is my teacher. She introduced me to art and taught me to love and appreciate art. When I was growing up, seeing her paint created a deep connection with Art. I used to look forward to Art Exhibitions we used to organize in India. It included paintings and Terracotta pottery that took months of preparation.

In US ,I started Art Exhibitions in 2001.  My artwork has been a part of many Solo and Group Art Shows.

My Art Work  has also been a part of "Doors Unhinged!" supporting Doors Open Lowell  and art community. I also worked with Revolving Museum, Lowell.

I had a blast coming up with fun projects with a theme for kids at "Essence of India".

I have been actively involved with different Art Organizations like ALL and Chelmsford Art Society. I am a Board Member of Chelmsford Art Society.

From last few years I has been teaching Art classes at different locations. I teach Art classes for kids as well as adults. I offers classes at Chelmsford Community Education and Fine Art workshops at  Michaels.

2. In your view, what is the role of Art in an individuals life/society?

Art is everywhere ...we are surrounded by Art. All we need is to stop and appreciate Art in our daily life. I believe Art is therapeutic. With the kind of lifestyle and hectic schedules we all have, art can help us slow down and enjoy the beauty around us. Each one of us is creative in our own way. Art in different forms brings people together and nurtures their souls.

3. How do you manage your time between a full time job, art, and family?

When we are passionate about something we can always find time and different ways  to do that. I love creating and teaching Art. So let's just say I love my job. I am thankful to God that I am able to pursue what I love. In initial years I used to take my son to most of the events I was part of. Result is he appreciates art now and I love it when he gives his expert comments!!! In addition to everything else my husband has always been very supportive. So balance has to be there and I try to maintain that balance.

4. Why did you join Ekal's IndiArt initiative?
I joined Ekal's IndiArt because I believe in the cause that Ekal Vidyalya is working for - providing basic education to kids in rural India. I saw this as an opportunity to do one good deed and give back a little. Just imagine a smile on a child's face who can go to school and learn instead of just dreaming about it. All my students are very excited to be a part of Ekal's IndiArt. I am honored to be a part of Ekal's IndiArt.
5. Any piece of advice for our young artists? My advice is "Follow your heart. Do your best and never give up."

6. In one line define art:… Art is…
"Art is life!!!".  
When I am painting or I am in class with my students, I am in a different world. I can't imagine my life without Art. I am thankful to God for his blessings.

|