Meet Purvi Shah | Mixed-Media Artist & Writer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Purvi Shah and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Purvi, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
I’m inspired by a myriad of things, big and small, around me, in my art practice.

I find myself inspired by my writing that emerges during moments of solitude. There is something profoundly intimate about the act of writing in quiet seclusion, where thoughts have space to breathe, and ideas flow freely. The purity and depth of emotion that surface in these instances often result in some of the most authentic and poignant pieces of art. My creations are a direct reflection of my experiences, feelings, and the current events in my life. Each piece I produce encapsulates a part of my journey, capturing moments of joy, pain, growth, and contemplation. Outdoors and the beauty found in nature serve as my muses as I come up with imagery to communicate personal narratives and lived experiences. My goal is to create a connection with the viewer that transcends mere aesthetics, inviting them to pause, reflect, and perhaps find a piece of themselves within the art. At the core of my inspiration, I always want to stay aligned with my mission to encourage people to explore their world within.

In my personal life, I find myself continuously inspired by the everyday moments that unfold around me. Whether it’s a simple conversation with a loved one, a quiet moment of reflection in nature, or even a challenging experience that pushes me out of my comfort zone, each instance has the potential to spark creativity within me. These moments serve as the foundation for my artistic pursuits, infusing my work with a depth and authenticity that resonates with others. As I navigate the highs and lows of life, I am reminded that inspiration can be found in the most unexpected places, shaping not only my art but also my perspective on the world.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Brace yourself, I have a long answer for this!
I’m a mixed media artist and I love to work with different kinds of materials. I take immense pleasure in recreating the ethereal beauty found in nature. I love to infuse vibrant colors onto the canvas, but with a whimsical and abstract twist that is uniquely my own.

Utilizing mixed media allows me to create intricate layers that form a narrative unique to my artistic expression. I ensure that every element contributes to the depth and richness of the artwork. To give you some examples, I draw circles spiraling off my canvas, signifying the uncontainable nature of the circle of our lives. Using a palette knife adds a raw, instinctual quality to my work, a direct channel from my intuition to the canvas, capturing the very energy present in that fleeting moment of creation. This amalgamation results in a body of work that not only engages the senses but also transcends the physical, inviting viewers to ponder the interconnectedness of existence and the timeless flow of life.

I’m a full-time artist but that’s not where my journey started. With degrees in Engineering and Management and a long stint on Wall Street, it was in 2023 I realized the universe had a different plan for me. The biggest struggle for me hasn’t been learning how to be an artist but unlearning all the societal conditioning to achieve certain things to be successful. I’m not here to fit any mold or check the boxes that society and the world have created for all of us. The journey of self-love, self-reflection, and acceptance is the hardest of all, in my opinion. I read the quote somewhere, and it has stuck with me like nothing ever before – ” Maybe the journey isn’t so much about becoming anything. Maybe it’s about unbecoming everything that isn’t you”.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Great question!

At this time in my life, I’m a “let’s wing it” sort of person so it would be unlikely that I will have a week’s itinerary. However, there are some places I would certainly hit. First and foremost, I will take them to the Art Social Gallery in Plano where my art is on display! It’s a walk-in art gallery located amidst the hustle and bustle of Shops at Legacy. My ideal day out would be a walk in Dallas arts district followed by dinner at Rise no.1. And, the Dallas Arboretum is a must too.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Wow, this question has been a fantastic opportunity for me to pause and express gratitude toward so many people who have played a significant role in my journey.

My journey as an artist has been deeply influenced by the loss of my mother, a pivotal moment that shaped my artistic expression. Through my grief, I came to understand the significance of embracing one’s true self in this vast circle of life, where change is constant and inevitable. This profound realization propelled me to explore the depths of my creativity like never before.

My husband has played a significant role in my journey as an artist. His unwavering support, encouraging words, and belief in my talent have fueled my passion and creativity. With his patience and understanding, he has stood by me during the challenging times, inspiring me to persevere and explore new aspects of my life with art. His presence provides me with a sense of comfort and motivation every day.

In 2023 I decided that I wanted to quit my Finance job and pursue art full-time. I joined Milan Art Institute’s Mastery program and I can confidently say that Milan Art Institute truly lives up to all its claims and more. The founder, Elli Milan is extremely knowledgeable and also genuinely invested in helping the students grow. The curriculum is thoughtfully designed to challenge and inspire, pushing me to explore new techniques and styles. Through the institute’s and my mentor Rita Vicari’s, guidance and feedback, I have witnessed significant improvement in my skills and creativity. I am grateful for the nurturing environment at Milan Art Institute, which has played a vital role in shaping me into a better artist.

Website: https://www.artbypurvishah.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artbypurvishah/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/purvi-shah-5648077a/

Image Credits
kkdoesphotos