Style, substance, success: Creativity insights and tips from India Art Festival

In this photo essay from this four-city festival, we showcase a range of artworks and creator insights from Mumbai.

Apr 20, 2025 - 03:00

Style, substance, success: Creativity insights and tips from India Art Festival

Launched in 2014, PhotoSparks is a weekly feature from YourStory, with photographs that celebrate the spirit of creativity and innovation. In the earlier 860 posts, we featured an art festival, cartoon gallery. world music festival, telecom expo, millets fair, climate change expo, wildlife conference, startup festival, Diwali rangoli, and jazz festival.

Held across four cities each year, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Bengaluru and New Delhi, the India Art Festival (IAF) showcases a diverse range of artistic styles, themes, and genres. IAF recently wrapped up its Hyderabad edition at King's Crown Convention (see our coverage of IAF’s earlier editions here).

In this photo essay, three artists from the IAF Mumbai exhibition share insights on their artistic journey, how art has inspired them, and benefits of exhibiting at the festival. They also reveal tips and hard-earned lessons for aspiring artists.

Based in Dehradun, Antra Srivastava graduated in English literature and also dug deep into ancient Indian scriptures and other philosophies. “I have always been a seeker and observer, though expressions always came out in the form of colours and words,” she tells YourStory, describing the journey of her inquisitiveness.

A group exhibition at IAF was organised by Naveena Ganjoo, who heads the Department of Painting at the School of Fine Arts, IPS Academy, Indore. Her artworks capture the nostalgia and emotional depth of childhood memories and nature, expressed through acrylic and oil mediums.

Mumbai-based Riddhi Mehta was a chartered financial analyst who spent over 15 years in the corporate world before transitioning into the world of art. “While finance shaped my early career, art has become my true calling,” she says. Her current work focuses on modern, minimalist, spiritual, and contemporary artwork that convey a sense of calm and connection.

Art and meaning

For Ganjoo, art is both a mirror and a doorway. “It reflects life, offering glimpses of truth we might miss in everyday moments – but it also opens a door to the soul for both artist and observer. It is a conversation between inner and outer worlds, often saying things we did not even know we needed to hear,” she explains.

Mehta describes art as a soulful reflection of life, a silent language that expresses what words often cannot. “Each piece I create is a blend of intention and intuition, allowing me to connect deeply with myself and others, and to bring a sense of peace, purpose and presence into the world,” she describes.

Srivastava regards art as a living entity that needs to be nourished gently and persistently. “Art has always been an extremely therapeutic way to uplift my being. With each new work I discover a new hidden key inside me, which opens up the next door to enter,” she says, describing the immersion and awe of the artistic process.

Naveena Ganjoo (centre) and students from SOFA, IPS Academy

Style and genre

Mehta’s style is a blend of modern, minimal, contemporary, and spiritual elements. “Designed to complement modern homes and workspaces, my artwork adds a serene yet sophisticated touch, creating spaces that feel both elevated and emotionally grounded,” she says.

Srivastava feels art should not be perceived only as visual, sensory and imaginary creative expression – it should also make viewers pause, reflect and question the very reason of their existence. Her artwork is based on extensive philosophical research and reflections from travels, and combines multiple layers of colours to achieve harmony and rhythm.

Ganjoo’s students from IPS Academy have completed thousands of artworks conveying stories of imagination, dedication and growth. “From tiny tots picking up a brush for the first time to adults rediscovering their love for art, we have seen talent blossom at every stage,” she says with pride, adding that many of the students have gone on to win competitions, pursue further art studies, and even start their own creative ventures.

Riddhi Mehta (L), Milu Chitrakar Gupta (R)

Festival experience

For Srivastava, art fairs offer a plethora of opportunities to expand her network and connect directly with art connoisseurs and art enthusiasts. “I have been taking part in major art festivals for more than decade and half, and feedback has always been honest and encouraging which further led to bringing out my signature style,” she enthuses. Her artworks are priced from Rs 20,000 to Rs 4lakh.

“Our experience at IAF was energising and deeply affirming. Being surrounded by such a rich and diverse community of artists, collectors, curators, and art lovers created a vibrant atmosphere that celebrated creativity at every corner,” Ganjoo says, acknowledging the personal connections that many viewers felt with the exhibited artworks.

Mehta also appreciated the opportunity to interact with such a wide and appreciative crowd. “Receiving heartfelt feedback and genuine appreciation for my work reaffirmed my passion and encouraged me to continue exploring and creating with even more intention,” she recalls. Her artworks are priced from Rs 5,000 upwards.

Tips and advice

The three artists offer tips and advice for aspiring creators. For example, Mehta advises them to trust their journey and stay true to their creative voice. “Do not be afraid to experiment, make mistakes, or step outside your comfort zone — that is where growth happens,” she observes.

“Stay consistent, keep creating, and let your work evolve naturally. Most importantly, create from a place of authenticity and passion. When your art reflects who you are, it will always find its way to the right hearts and spaces,” she adds.

Srivastava urges aspiring artists to keep working on their passion, come what may. “I feel we do not choose art, it is the other way round – we are the chosen ones and it is a life-long process to evolve as an artist,” she says.

“There are no short cuts – regular practice, perseverance and discipline lead you to your real self,” she adds. As trends in art, she points to the rise of digital art, combinations of different materials and concepts, and more professional opportunities for creators.

“Stay true to your voice, even when it trembles. Art is not about perfection—it is about expression, exploration, and growth. You will face doubts, rejections, and creative blocks, but do not let them silence you,” Ganjoo urges.

Every line, color and mistake matters. “It all teaches. Keep creating, consistently,” she adds.

“Inspiration is wonderful, but discipline is what shapes an artist. Sketch even when you are uninspired, paint when you are unsure. The breakthroughs often come through the struggle,” Ganjoo affirms.

Aspiring artists should be curious, take risks, and learn constantly. “Study other artists, experiment with materials, listen to feedback—but never lose your own perspective. That is what makes your art irreplaceable,” she explains.

“And most importantly: do not wait for permission to call yourself an artist. You already are,” Ganjoo signs off.

Now what have you done today to pause in your busy schedule and harness your creative side for a better world?