When foreign artists say that their work has been inspired by India, we can predict what their paintings will look like.
When foreign artists say that their work has been inspired by India, we can predict what their paintings will look like. Ganesha, rangolis, Ganges, hawkers, ancient Indian architecture, slums -- are subjects that are sure to find a place on their canvas. But German artist Daniela Florsheim's body of work is a pleasant change in that regard.
With innocent faces of children staring back at you and the flora and fauna of our country beckoning you, Daniela certainly hasn't stereotyped India like many other foreigners. The artist who is currently exhibiting her work at the Jehangir Art Gallery talks to CS about her love for India:u00a0
Who: Daniela Florsheim
What: Talks about putting on canvas her love for India and its people
Where: Kala Ghoda
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Incredible India
When I first came to India, I had no idea that my visit would have such a profound impact on my life. I instantly fell in love with it and came back to visit the country twice after that. I wanted to give something back to the people of this country and decided to prepare for a show. I was very fascinated by the natural beauty of the Gangotri and the children that I saw around me. I took their pictures and replicated them with my own interpretation. All the kids in my work are real, and that's how I think art should be, real and easy to relate to. Some people say that there is a touch of melancholy in my art, but it isn't conscious. When you draw from the heart, your emotions get translated in your paintings.
India, my second home
I don't want people to create walls and barriers between them, so the children in my paintings aren't rich or poor, intelligent or daft. I think everyone has the potential of becoming something and I want to give them that chance. I wish people in India would do away with such discrimination; you're such beautiful and warm people. I never expected people here to be so friendly; they look calm on the surface, but have an unmistakable inner strength. I almost feel Indian when I'm here.
Being me
I hope that people like my work. I'm not really following a recipe that is guaranteed to sell -- in Germany, artists believe in being different to draw the public. Recently, one artist got a janitor to perform a song during his show and it was a big hit. I don't think I can dilute my work. If I'm constantly worrying about producing something that has never been done before, I would be taking away the freedom that I have as an artist. I'm happy letting my heart call the shots, the strokes, I mean.
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