In 1931, I was born in a small town, Beawar, in India. I began painting when I was 8 years-old. I always dreamed of becoming an artist who would “capture colors of the moment.” When I was 9, my painting of Mahatma Gandhi was placed in The State House's art exhibit.
My father was a very affluent engineer who wanted me to be a structural engineer just like him and never encouraged my talent. So I had to hide in a barn for days to complete my paintings. My mother was the only source of encouragement. Her early demise caused me to distance myself from my family and spend more time with nature. The close bond I developed with nature is reflected in many of my paintings. My great passion led to my admission into one of the most prestigious art institutes of Mumbai. But I was forced to decline this amazing opportunity to pursue my father's dream of becoming a civil engineer.
I looked for fulfillment in my family and job, but always felt my life was incomplete. I taught school kids how to sketch and paint but I knew something was still lacking. I continued to feel like I was betraying myself somehow. After persistent coaxing from my daughter, I decided it was finally time to retire at 58 and follow my true passion: painting.
My artistic style is on the border between expressionism and impressionism. My paintings emphasize light and color with bright hues and the highlights applied in loose sketchy brushstrokes create a flickering effect. My inspirations are the classics: Monet and Vincent van Gogh. I even dedicated a few early paintings to him.
After suffering a stroke at age 80, I continue to pursue painting. I always keep in mind my mantra, "to never give up” and this helped me recover almost completely. I never sign any of my paintings. I would like the world to just observe the recorded “moment on the canvas.” I feel that people would not admire my work any more or any less with or without my name on the canvas. I want the world to just love the art and preserve the elements of beauty, water, color and light as the essence of happiness.
To Contact Me:
Email: yppethe@gmail.com
Phone: (617) 584-4223