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

Hi Geetha, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
I am originally from India, but have travelled all over the world. My childhood was spent in Iran and the Middle East. After a few years back in India, marriage brought me to the United States. I have now lived here longer than in any other country. My husband and I also love to travel and I use those trips to inspire me to create impressionistic abstract pieces.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I started painting about 4 years ago. Initially I used oils on canvas but now I am branching out into other mediums like acrylics and water colors. I initially took classes at the Plano Recreation Center but now I am exploring on my own. I am inspired by nature, my own culture and travel. My initial pieces were more representational but now I prefer painting nature inspired impressionistic abstracts. I do not have a lot of time to devote to my art since I have another job and a family. However I try to paint as much as possible unusually in 30 minute segments. I am proud to have exhibited in one or two shows every year. I hope to have a Web site up soon and in the meantime you can find me on my Instagram page.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My favorite places are the Dallas Museum of Art. I love exploring the exhibits and checking out the new art. The Nasher Museum is also a good space to visit and while you are there you can eat at their cafe too. The food trucks at Klyde Warren Park are a fun place to get lunch and people watch. Since there are lots of different trucks and cuisines, with lots of different options, everyone can eat whatever they like. We love to go the Arboretum during spring and fall. We carry a picnic if we visit and then grab ice cream at Paciogos in Plano.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to recognize my teacher Elliot Fallas, for bringing me back to art and inspiring me to paint again. He is encouraging and supportive and a great mentor. He currently holds art classes at the Plano Recreation Center. I have also had loads of help from other artists on social media . It is a community of cooperative competition and I love that!

Instagram: @raoart
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/geetharaoart

Image Credits
Nalneesh Gaur Geetha M. Rao