From Petri Dishes to Paintbrushes

As I stand before my canvas, brush in hand, I am reminded of the serendipitous journey that led me to this moment. From the confines of a laboratory to the limitless expanse of art, my path has been nothing short of transformative. With a Ph.D. in Microbiology and training in intellectual property rights, I had all the trappings of a successful career. Yet, the void within me lingered. Motherhood and the pursuit of a traditional 9-to-5 job seemed incongruous. The search for meaning continued.

Resin art, a chance encounter, sparked a fleeting interest. Acrylic painting, another fortuitous discovery, became the catalyst for my artistic awakening. But, the journey was not without its challenges.

Self-doubt and fear of failure threatened to derail me, as the blank canvas seemed intimidating. But, I researched techniques, gathered courage, and started painting. Acrylics, forgiving in nature, allowed me to experiment and learn.

The quest for a unique style drove me to overwork, leading to stress and creative blocks. I learned to take breaks, reflect, and return to my art with fresh eyes.

Skepticism and criticism from others made me question my purpose. But, my mentor's guidance and encouragement helped me understand that art is a personal journey, not a means to impress others.

Depression and mental health struggles lingered, but art became my solace. I learned to embrace constructive feedback, take breaks, and prioritize self-care.

Through these challenges, I discovered my strength, resilience, and true passion. I am proud to be part of Dipannita Mukherjee's mission to empower self-taught women artists, creating a platform for hassle-free art sales in India. Together, we aim to break the shackles of conventional norms and unleash the creative potential within.

In conclusion, my journey from scientist to artist has been a testament to the transformative power of art. I am no longer just a microbiologist or a patent agent; I am an artist, a creator, a dreamer. And in this journey, I have found my true calling.