Namrata Kumar, a native of New Delhi, found her path in art and design as naturally as the rhythm of the city itself.
“Growing up, I was a bookworm with an appreciation for all things artsy,” Namrata reflects on her early connection with the art. Attending the Shri Ram School, renowned for its art department, laid the foundation for her journey. It’s no surprise that Namrata’s mother, a textile design graduate from the National Institute of Design, played a pivotal role in nurturing her creative side.
‘Eames Home’ by Namrata Kumar. Image Courtesy of the Artist. © Namrata Kumar.
After graduating in Visual Communication Design, Namrata ventured into the corporate world, working as a graphic designer in New Delhi for nearly a decade. Her calling finally led her to pursue a new chapter in 2017, transitioning from graphic design to painting and illustration. This shift was a natural progression, reflecting her dedication to the craft.
Namrata’s art finds its roots in the world around her, drawing inspiration from various cultures, people, and places. “For me, travel is not just about collecting passport stamps or checking off landmarks; it’s about collecting moments and emotions,” she explains. Her art residency in Naggar, nestled in the Himalayan foothills, offered her the opportunity to immerse herself in mountain life and explore indigenous architectural and craft forms. These experiences enriched her both creatively and personally.
‘Kochi Backwaters’ by Namrata Kumar. Image Courtesy of the Artist. © Namrata Kumar.
India’s rich diversity is a central wellspring of inspiration for Namrata’s work. “India offers an extraordinary wealth of beauty that is profound and multi-layered.” The sights, sounds, colours, and aromas of her homeland influence her art, creating a multi-layered tapestry of beauty and complexity.
‘Goan Summer’ by Namrata Kumar. Image Courtesy of the Artist. © Namrata Kumar.
Namrata’s art is a contemporary interplay of colours and shapes. “I tend to embrace imperfection and spontaneity in my work,” she notes. Her work is rooted in intuition, transcending the visual to become an experience. “A palette thoughtfully curated can breathe life into a creation, making it vibrant and evocative.”
‘Flower Sellers’ by Namrata Kumar. Image Courtesy of the Artist. © Namrata Kumar.
Namrata’s art also invites viewers to explore, to momentarily inhabit another’s perspective. “When I create art, my aim is to conjure precisely this transformation.” Her work serves as a transformative lens, offering fresh visions and emotions to those who engage with it.
‘Women of Ceylon’ by Namrata Kumar. Image Courtesy of the Artist. © Namrata Kumar.
An invitation to engage, to dream, and to explore the colours of life – her work doesn’t romanticise; instead, she harmonises the complexities of life, offering viewers a glimpse of the beauty and richness that surround us.