Meet Kanchan Shingwekar | Oil Painter

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

Hi Kanchan, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
Some people are naturally good at sports. Some excel with numbers. I happen to be good at a few things—like computer programming, cooking, raising kids—and I’ve also discovered that I’m truly good at painting. What draws me to art isn’t just the final result, but the slow, honest learning process it demands. In art, there are no shortcuts—only practice, patience, and persistence. And I genuinely love that hard work.

I realized later in life that perhaps I should have chosen art as my professional path from the beginning. But I have no regrets about the journey I’ve taken. Every part of it—engineering, parenting, exploring other skills—has shaped who I am and how I now approach my art.

I believe there’s no “right age” to begin a new career, especially a creative one. I’m beginning mine now, with more clarity, commitment, and joy than I could have imagined. And I’m grateful every day for the chance to finally follow this path.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy?
I’m actually at the very beginning of this journey—and no, it hasn’t been easy. Starting something new, especially in a field like art, takes courage, vulnerability, and patience. Art isn’t about instant rewards or big profits. In fact, it often feels like the opposite of business. It’s about freedom of thought, expression, and at the same time, learning to work within certain boundaries—whether technical, emotional, or practical.

Right now, I’m in a place where I see failure and learning as the same thing. Every challenge, every setback, is also a lesson. And that perspective keeps me going. I may be just starting professionally, but I’m deeply committed—and genuinely excited—for all the opportunities and growth that lie ahead.
In the next few years, I see myself becoming a more confident and skillful oil painter, someone who’s not only creating art but also helping others grow through it. I would love to teach someday—whether it’s through small workshops, online lessons, or mentoring other beginners like I once was. Art has given me so much clarity and peace, and I want to share that experience with others.

I also hope to build a small but meaningful space—online or in-person—where people can connect with my work, understand the stories behind my paintings, and feel something personal when they view them. My goal isn’t fame or huge sales—it’s connection, growth, and authentic expression.

And most of all, I want to keep learning. I never want to lose that sense of curiosity, that feeling of being a student. Because in art, every canvas is a new beginning.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Trails around Grapevine Lake
Shops at Highland Village Flower Mound

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I owe so much of where I am today to the love, support, and encouragement of the people around me.

First and foremost, my husband and kids—they’ve given me unconditional support, the space to grow, and the freedom to chase my passion without hesitation. Their belief in me has been a constant source of strength.

My sisters, Trupti and Dipti, have been my lifelong companions and constant motivators. Their quiet encouragement has meant the world.

When it comes to mentors, I’ve been incredibly fortunate.

Alan was my first coach—he taught me everything from how to hold a brush to how to care for my paint tubes. His patience laid the foundation.

Phil Starke challenged me in all the right ways. With him, I had to unlearn a few things, but what I gained was invaluable. He instilled in me the mantra that keeps me going: “Miles of canvas and stacks of paintings.”

I stand on the shoulders of every one of these people—and I’m grateful beyond words.

Website: https://www.pkcartstudio.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574489321471

Image Credits
Kanchan Shingwekar