Degree Show 2024: Meet the Graduates - Roopini Venkatasubramanian

Introduce yourself and your work. What ideas and themes are important to you?

I am Roopini, an MPhil graduate in Theoretical Physics coming from Chennai, India. My academic background encouraged me to delve into the microscopic concepts of nature, deepening my inclination towards spirituality. I owe my career transition and inner transformation to the holy feet of my spiritual master, Shirdi Sai Baba. Being a traditional art practitioner, I see the work of science in theory, the innate sacredness in every action, and the divinity in the beauty of creation.Constant remembrance of the Lord through artistic practice is my pathway to seek guidance, surrender, and work as an instrument of the Divine.

What materials do you use? Why have you chosen to work with these materials?

My work focuses on three media: ceramics, stained glass, and miniature paintings. Working with clay reminds me of the potter devotee Gora Khumbar (13th-century saint devoted to Lord Vittala), who would stamp clay by chanting the name of the Lord incessantly. While working with stained glass, I observe and experience the inherent philosophy of light emanating from darkness. Indian miniature paintings resonate with me due to the meditative practice of lines, forms and intricate details. The practice of repetition, be it the repetition of processes or patterns, is a common thread in these media that makes them more valuable.

What drew you to the School, and what do you want to remember about these last two years?

I came across KFSTA when I transitioned from my research position in physics to start gaining knowledge and skills in Indian traditional arts. Having a School practising sacred and traditional arts involving various media was a boon to someone from a different academic background keen on identifying her path in the art world to delve more into her spiritual practice. These two years have been a beautiful journey filled with rich learning experiences from the tutors and students of varying faiths and cultural backgrounds coming together to work with One principle of love and surrender to the Divine.

Describe your studio to us – what would we find?

During my MA, I built a special connection with the School's workshop space, which became my primary work area. It is, to me, a place of growth to see my inner self and work, evolve with time and effort. Working with the klin for a longer time allowed me to contemplate on the severe hardships undergone to see the inner beauty revealed. Every scraping process involved in making the encaustic tiles and the shading process in stained glass helped me to focus on the inner unveiling journey. I hope to have a similar workspace to nurture my practice.

Professionally, what are your hopes and goals?

I wish to continue my practice as a ceramic, stained glass and miniature artist. I hope to upskill my studio experience and produce meaningful works that define my purpose. I am building my online space - Abhyasata, to share my work with the world. This platform will function with the core values of constant practice and detachment. I aspire to teach the traditional techniques I have learnt and nurture this platform where people can learn, grow and reflect on the work of the Divine, feeling grateful to be a micro part in His infinite play.