Featured Artist Ramesh Mahalingam

For Ramesh Mahalingam, art is more than a pastime. It’s a thread woven through his life, waiting to be picked up again. Enjoy this collection and view more on his website.

 

 

Since early childhood, I have been deeply fascinated by art. Even as a young child, I would spend hours sketching and painting, often drawing inspiration from the world around me. Winning several prizes in art competitions at a young age further fuelled my passion, reinforcing my confidence and interest in creative expression.

 

 

Art has always felt like a natural extension of who I am — perhaps in part because it runs in the family. From my grandfather and aunt to my sister and cousins, artistic talent and a shared love for the arts have been a common thread through generations.

 

 

Despite this strong interest, I never received formal training or a professional education in the visual arts. I am essentially self-taught, having learned by closely observing the works of accomplished artists, studying their techniques, and practicing on my own. Over time, I developed a working knowledge of composition, colour theory, and technique through experimentation and sustained personal effort.

 

 

Academically, I pursued a different path and earned a Master’s degree in Business from the University of Michigan. My professional journey led me into the world of corporate finance, and I spent over 15 years at PepsiCo in the United States, navigating the demands of a high-paced corporate career. During those years, art slowly moved to the background as professional responsibilities and family life took precedence.

 

 

It wasn’t until I returned to India that my passion for art was rekindled. A major influence in this rediscovery was my sister, Rama Balakrishnan — an accomplished artist in her own right. Her encouragement and dedication to her craft inspired me to return to painting with renewed enthusiasm. What began again as a hobby soon grew into a significant part of my life.

 

 

Over the past several years, I have held multiple successful exhibitions alongside my sister. These exhibitions have been well-received, and I take particular pride in the fact that proceeds from the sale of our artworks were donated to charitable causes. This intersection of artistic passion and social contribution has made the experience especially meaningful.

 

 

My interests span a wide range of artistic forms — from acrylic and oil painting to watercolours, pencil sketches, and mixed-media work. I have never confined myself to a single style or technique. Instead, I embrace variety and experimentation.

 

 

Whether it’s traditional landscapes, abstract concepts, or intricate sketches, my work reflects a diverse range of themes and styles. I believe this openness and adaptability set me apart as an artist — offering viewers something new and unexpected with each piece. Ultimately, art has remained a powerful means of self-expression for me, and I continue to explore its possibilities with curiosity, passion, and a desire to connect with others through creativity.

 

 

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