ArtDayMe: Amidst the bustling art world, one artist's journey stands out as a testament to the transformative power of passion and perseverance.

Akshita Lad a visionary force in the art world, is challenging conventions and pushing boundaries with her groundbreaking approach to visual storytelling. From the timeless allure of classical techniques to the bold experimentation of contemporary expression, Akshita Lad captivates audiences with a diverse portfolio that defies categorization.

- How and when did you interest in art?

 My interest in art traces back to my earliest memories. Raised in a household where art was revered, I was exposed to the masterpieces of renowned artists like Michelangelo, da Vinci, and Monet from a young age. My parents, especially my father, instilled in me a deep appreciation for the skill and beauty behind these iconic works.

Accompanied by my family, I had the privilege of visiting museums and palaces across India and Europe, where I was mesmerized by the breathtaking creations of the great masters. These experiences cultivated my sense of aesthetics and left an indelible impression on me.

Art became an integral part of my life, and I often found solace in drawing and painting during my formative years. Despite the demands of everyday life and academics, my passion for art persisted. However, it wasn't until 2018, during a challenging period in my life, that I rediscovered my love for painting.

Art became my sanctuary, providing me with a sense of purpose and fulfillment. With no predefined agenda, I immersed myself in the creative process and realized the profound impact it had on my well-being. Painting became more than just a hobby—it became a calling.

I believe that my artistic talent is a gift from God, guiding me towards my true purpose in life. Through hardship, I found clarity and discovered my mission—to bring joy and happiness to others through my art.

Painting is not just a creative outlet for me; it's a transcendent experience. When I'm immersed in my work, the outside world fades away, and I find myself in a state of profound meditation and healing. It's a sacred space where I feel connected to something greater than myself.

In essence, my journey as an artist has been nothing short of magical, guided by God and fueled by passion. I am committed to honoring my calling and sharing the beauty of art with the world.

- Tell about Soft Impression Series , when did you think about this collection and how created?

The creation of the Soft Impression Series was a deeply personal and introspective journey. It emerged as I delved into my own experiences and emotions, aiming to translate them onto canvas in a way that would evoke feelings of peace, serenity and joy in the viewer.

Inspired by the timeless works of Claude Monet, whose paintings never fail to bring a smile to my soul, I embarked on this series with the intention of infusing each piece with the same sense of happiness and tranquility. I wanted the colors, harmony, and composition to work together melodiously, creating an atmosphere of peace and serenity, joy, and happiness for those who view them.  I used a semi-abstract style characterized by thin layers of acrylic paints and pastels for this series. This allows for  Soft Impression Series to radiate a soft, ethereal quality that draws viewers into a world of tranquility and contemplation. The transparency and interplay of colors evoke a sense of harmony and balance, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the peaceful serenity of the scenes depicted.

Each painting in the series is imbued with a profound reverence for the beauty of nature and its cyclical nature. They serve as a metaphor for life, inviting viewers to reflect on the beauty that can be found in the present moment and in the transitions that transform our lives.

Everytime I think about Soft Impressions, the Song Turn Turn Turn, by The Byrds comes to mind. The lyrics are below:

 To everything, turn, turn, turn There is a season, turn, turn, turn And a time to every purpose under heaven

A time to be born, a time to die A time to plant, a time to reap A time to kill, a time to heal A time to laugh, a time to weep

To everything, turn, turn, turn There is a season, turn, turn, turn And a time to every purpose, under heaven

A time to build up, a time to break down A time to dance, a time to mourn A time to cast away stones A time to gather stones together

To everything, turn, turn, turn There is a season, turn, turn, turn And a time to every purpose under heaven

A time of love, a time of hate A time of war, a time of peace A time you may embrace A time to refrain from embracing

To everything, turn, turn, turn There is a season, turn, turn, turn And a time to every purpose under heaven

A time to gain, a time to lose A time to rend, a time to sew A time for love, a time for hate A time for peace, I swear it's not too late

Beyond being mere visual representations, these paintings serve as an invitation to slow down and savor the simple joys of life. They gently remind us to pause, breathe, and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us, even amidst life's busiest moments.

Ultimately, the Soft Impression Series is a heartfelt tribute to the enduring beauty of nature and a celebration of the profound sense of contentment that can be found in embracing the present moment. It is my sincere hope that these paintings will serve as beacons of tranquility, inspiring viewers to find solace and joy in the ever-changing tapestry of life.

- Lights are very important in your artworks.why?

The use of light holds immense significance in my artworks, particularly in the Soft Impression series. I have a strong preference for working in high key, where light serves as a central element in creating an atmosphere of lightness and joy. Light has the remarkable ability to infuse my paintings with a sense of vibrancy and vitality, elevating the mood and enhancing the overall aesthetic.

In the Soft Impression series, light serves as more than just a visual element; it is a vehicle for communication. By employing a high key palette and strategically incorporating light, I am better equipped to convey the feelings of joy and serenity that are integral to the essence of this series. The luminous quality of light imbues each painting with a sense of warmth and tranquility, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the beauty of the scene.

Furthermore, light serves as a metaphorical symbol in my artworks, representing hope, positivity, and renewal. It illuminates the path forward, guiding viewers towards a sense of inner peace and contentment. Through the strategic manipulation of light and shadow, I aim to create a visual narrative that transcends the canvas, evoking a profound emotional response in the viewer.

Ultimately, the careful use of light in the Soft Impression series enhances the overall impact of each artwork, enriching the viewer's experience and reinforcing the underlying themes of joy, serenity, and appreciation for the beauty of life's fleeting moments.

- Your artworks are colorful , do colors come from your homeland?

Certainly, the vibrant colors in my artworks are a fusion of my upbringing in India and my intuitive appreciation for various artistic styles. Growing up in India exposed me to a kaleidoscope of hues, from the colorful festivals to the vibrant clothing. This rich tapestry of color deeply influenced my intuitive understanding of color. It has allowed me to develop a deep understanding of color's expressive power.

My artistic palette is also influenced by my admiration for artists who skillfully employed color to evoke emotion. Their use of color reflects a deeper understanding of how hues can evoke mood and atmosphere, which aligns with my own artistic sensibilities.

Whether it's the soft, harmonious hues reminiscent of natural light by Masters like Renoir and Monet, or the bold contrasts of light and shadow by Rembrandt, I'm drawn to palettes that resonate with my own emotional landscape.

Each stroke of color on my canvas is a reflection of this intuitive understanding, creating artworks that speak to the vibrant diversity of life and the emotional depth of human experience.

- We can see Impressionist movement and strong strokes please explain about these?

Painting in an impressionist style feels incredibly natural to me, particularly in conjunction with my intuitive use of color. It's an organic and instinctive process that allows me to express myself authentically on canvas. Impressionism, with its focus on capturing the essence of a moment and the fleeting effects of light, resonates deeply with my artistic sensibilities.

Impressionist paintings are characterized by their loose brushwork and emphasis on capturing the play of light and color. For me, this style offers a means of translating my personal experiences and emotions onto the canvas, creating artworks that are imbued with a sense of vitality and movement.

The use of strong, bold strokes allows me to convey a sense of energy and dynamism in my paintings, while also infusing them with a feeling of spontaneity and freedom. By juxtaposing colors next to each other and allowing them to blend optically, I aim to evoke a sense of atmosphere and depth, drawing viewers into the scene.

At its core, impressionism represents a departure from strict realism, instead embracing the subjective perception of reality mediated by personal emotion and memory. Through my impressionist paintings, I strive to capture not just what I see, but how I feel in response to the world around me, creating artworks that resonate on a deeply personal level with both myself and the viewer.

- You said before about Greek and Roman schools of thought , these thoughts how come in your canvases?

My art is inspired by two important schools of thought: the Greek and Roman philosophies. The Greeks believed in creating art that showed idealized versions of reality, focusing on balance, harmony, and beauty. This influences me to aim for a sense of harmony and beauty in my artwork.

On the other hand, the Romans were more practical. Their art was often used for practical purposes like commemorating events or glorifying leaders. In my landscape and abstract paintings, I take inspiration from their realistic approach but also want to challenge traditional ideas about art.

For example, in my landscapes, I strive to capture the beauty of nature while also infusing them with a sense of harmony and balance. Similarly, in my abstract paintings, I aim to evoke emotions and provoke thought, challenging viewers to see art in new ways.

I aim to show a diverse range of people and perspectives in my portraits and landscapes to shake up the idea that art should only feature certain types of people. So, my art is a mix of aiming for beauty and balance like the Greeks, but also wanting to change how we think about art, like the Romans.

- Please tells for our audience about recent accomplishments has been awarded ?

Awards & Nominations

• Award Winner - Botticelli International Prize, 2024 (Italy)

• Award Winner-Contemporary Art Collectors Harmony for Humanity:The Global Consciousness Art Prize 2023 (U.K)

• Award Winner  - International Prize Pegasus for the Arts, Italy - 2023

• Nominated Best Emerging Artist Icons , Dubai, UAE (Magzoid) - 2023

•  Art Ideal Cover Finalist Distinction, Circle Foundation for the Arts   -  2023 

• Artistic Excellence Certificate for “Vibrant Sky”, Circle Foundation for the Arts   – 2023

• Artistic Excellence Certificate for “Spring”, Circle Foundation for the Arts   – 2023

- Why did you chose Dubai for immigration?

Dubai was not just a choice for immigration but a deliberate decision influenced by a multitude of factors that resonated deeply with my personal and professional aspirations. Beyond its glittering skyline and economic prowess, Dubai offered a unique blend of safety, friendliness, and ease of living that appealed to me on a profound level.

The city's reputation for safety and security provided me with peace of mind, allowing me to focus wholeheartedly on my artistic pursuits without the distractions of uncertainty. Moreover, Dubai's welcoming and inclusive community fostered a sense of belonging, making it easy for me to integrate and forge meaningful connections.

One of the key drivers behind my choice was Dubai's proactive and supportive government, which consistently endeavors to enhance the quality of life for its residents. From its initiatives to beautify the cityscape to its unwavering commitment to the happiness and well-being of its inhabitants, Dubai stood out as a beacon of progress and prosperity.

These values deeply resonated with me as an artist, as I sought a nurturing environment where I could thrive creatively and personally. The city's vibrant cultural scene and avant-garde spirit provided me with a platform to showcase my work and engage with a diverse audience.

In essence, Dubai is not just a place of residence for me; it is my home—a place where I feel inspired, supported, and proud to contribute to its rich tapestry of culture and innovation. It is here that I have found the perfect balance between pursuing my artistic passions and enjoying a fulfilling quality of life—a testament to Dubai's enduring appeal as a global city of opportunity and growth.

- What do you see future of Middle East and Emirates women artists?

The future of Middle Eastern and Emirati women artists is incredibly promising, marked by a growing recognition of their talent, creativity, and contributions to the global art scene. As societal attitudes evolve and barriers to gender equality continue to be dismantled, women artists in the Middle East, including those from the Emirates, are poised to make significant strides in the coming years.

One of the most notable trends is the increasing visibility of women artists in the region, both locally and internationally. Emirati women artists, in particular, are gaining recognition for their unique perspectives, storytelling, and innovative approaches to art. Artists like Shaikha Al Mazrou, Maitha Demithan, and Zeinab Al Hashemi are leading the charge, creating thought-provoking works that reflect a rich tapestry of cultural influences.

Furthermore, with the influx of expatriates into the Middle East from all over the world, artists based in this region should be able to reach a wider audience and get the recognition that is long overdue. Initiatives aimed at promoting cultural exchange and collaboration are providing opportunities for artists to connect with diverse audiences and showcase their work on a global stage.

Additionally, initiatives aimed at empowering and supporting women in the arts are on the rise, providing opportunities for skill development, networking, and showcasing their work.

 As the region continues to invest in cultural development and diversification, there is growing momentum to promote gender equality and inclusivity in the arts. This bodes well for the future of women artists in the Middle East, who are increasingly being recognized as trailblazers and change-makers in their own right.

Looking ahead, I envision Emirati and Middle Eastern women artists continuing to push boundaries, challenge stereotypes, and inspire audiences with their creativity and passion. With the support of a thriving artistic community and an increasingly progressive society, the future is bright for women artists in the Middle East, poised to leave an indelible mark on the global art world.