Ishro – Woman power celebrated

Ritanjali Hastir Freelance Writer

“I do not draw what appeals to others but what I feel for my paintings are the mirror to my thoughts”, says Ishro Devi, a young artist from Hamirpur, though believing there is no much scope for art in Shimla, still follows her dream without ever being disheartened.ishro

Once, Rita Mae Brown an American Writer said that “Creativity comes from trust. Trust your instincts. And never hope more than you work” and following the same dictum Ishro is treading towards her dreams. “My father, who works in army always wanted to be an artist himself but due to certain reasons he was not able to pursue his passion so when he realized that I was so much interested in painting he always encouraged and supported my decision of becoming an artist”, says Ishro.

With a masters degree in Visual Art (Painting) from HimachalPradeshUniversity, Shimla, Ishro is further doing her Ph.D. She likes to use water colour, oil colour, acrylic colour, oil pastel, charcoal and waste material. Creative landscape and figurative work are her art style.painting2

“Though I love to draw almost anything on any given subject but the closest to my heart are the Kangra paintings, children, women and current affair related paintings. I do not draw what appeals to others but my paintings are a mirror of my thoughts and I do not want them to be influenced by any eternal force”, expressed Ishro.

Her other interests include writing poems on things that click her, listening to music and being part of NCC was the most eventful period for her as she shared, “Every time I use to wear my NCC uniform, I use to be filled with great pride and it always motivated me as I use to feel that even I am someone. I think that is the source of my motivation and not giving up on my passion to paint.”

She has participated in nearly 10 group exhibitions and five solo exhibitions held at various places in Shimla. However, she considers her first solo exhibition dear to her heart as she states, “It was first time in Rotary Hall that my work was exhibited and till this date I can remember the ambience of it though after that I participated in many other exhibitions but the memories of it are still fresh in my mind.”painting1

Ishro has also participated in number of workshops and while reflecting on one of the best workshop experience she said, “Art exhibition organized by CSIR- Palampur in 2010 was the best experience not only because of the exposure I got but in spite of being the youngest female participant my work was appreciated by the director. I felt so encouraged.”

Her achievements include serving as a Judge in painting competitions for various school exhibitions, and teaching painting skills to almost 50 students varying from age group of 5 to 45. “If there is anyone who is eager to learn painting I do not hesitate going to their place as well and teaching them”, she says.

Ishro’s future plans are to become a successful artist and a teacher despite the fact that there is not much scope in Shimla but she has a firm determination and says that she will never let her passion for painting die.