Jyotsna S Kumar
What media of art do you work in?
My favorite art form is painting, where I lose myself in the fluidity and vibrancy of acrylics, blending bold strokes and delicate layers to bring my visions to life. I also love experimenting with other mediums like pastels and inks, each adding its own unique texture and depth to my work, creating a dynamic interplay of color and emotion.
How would you describe your genre of painting?
Abstract expressionism.
Can you describe your creative process? When you begin a painting, do you have an idea of what the end result is? Do you prepare sketches first? Do you know the colors you are going to use?
My creative process is a dance between intention and intuition, where I begin by observing the world around me with a keen eye for detail. Everyday moments, like the rhythmic motion of sweeping a floor or the organic forms in a pile of laundry become a wellspring of inspiration, revealing hidden shapes and patterns that spark my imagination. While I often start with a feeling, I rarely have a fixed vision of the end result. Instead, I let the piece evolve organically, guided by the interplay of colors, textures, and emotions that emerge as I work.
I thrive on spontaneity, allowing each layer to inform the next. Using a variety of mark-making tools, I paint, scratch, and sculpt the substrate, building depth and complexity. Glazing, painting over, and sanding back are integral to my process, revealing hidden layers and creating a sense of history within the work. This cyclical approach reflects my love for storytelling, as each piece becomes a tapestry of moments, accidents, and discoveries.
Colors are chosen intuitively, often influenced by the mood, but they too evolve as the painting progresses. This fluid, exploratory process is where the magic happens, happy accidents become deliberate choices, and the painting takes on a life of its own. It’s a journey of uncovering, where the final piece is as much a surprise to me as it is to the viewer.
What is the message you want people to take away from your artwork?
As an abstract artist, I draw inspiration from the ordinary, the shapes, colors, and rhythms of everyday life that often go unnoticed. My work is an invitation to pause and find beauty in the mundane, to see the extraordinary hidden in the routine. Through bold brushstrokes, vibrant colors, and layered textures, I aim to capture the energy and vitality that pulse through even the simplest moments. My paintings are not just visual experiences; they are reminders to look closer, to feel deeper, and to celebrate the quiet magic woven into the fabric of our daily lives. I hope my art sparks curiosity, ignites emotion, and encourages viewers to discover their own stories within the layers.
100 years from now, how do you want people to remember you as an artist?
I hope to be remembered as an artist and educator who lived and breathed creativity, not just through my own work but by igniting that same spark in others. I want my legacy to be one of passion and generosity, a life dedicated to sharing knowledge, nurturing talent, and encouraging others to see the world through a lens of wonder and possibility. My art and teachings should stand as a testament to the power of expression, inspiring future generations to explore, create, and leave their own indelible mark on the world.
What is your favourite praise you have received from a client or about your work?
”A breathtaking interplay of form and depth, where every mark feels alive with intention and every layer tells a story. It’s not just a painting, it’s an experience, a journey into the sublime that lingers long after you look away.”
What are your hobbies outside of Art?
Outside of art, I find joy in the simple pleasures of life, playing with my spirited furballs, Thea and Kyra, whose antics never fail to bring laughter and lightness to my days. I also love experimenting in the kitchen, dishing out simple yet flavorful recipes that turn everyday meals into little celebrations of creativity and comfort.
What is an interesting piece of trivia about you that people don’t know?
I have a deep love for wearing sarees, embracing their elegance and cultural richness. I’ve also had the unique honor of participating in Singapore’s National Day Parade, a vibrant celebration of unity and heritage. Beyond that, I’m a Reiki practitioner, channeling energy healing to bring balance and harmony to myself and others
Give me one or two sentences about your family?
We’re proud doggy parents to our two beloved furballs, Thea and Kyra, who fill our home with endless laughter and unconditional love. Kannan, with his passion for photography and videography, is not only my biggest supporter but also my creative partner, capturing the essence of my art and helping bring its stories to life. Together, we create a vibrant and nurturing environment where artistic inspiration flows freely, and the joy of shared moments with our goofballs enriches every day.
What has been your strongest influence in your art career thus far?
As an artist and educator, my strongest influence has been my dedication to nurturing creativity and exploration in young minds. Inspired by Gerard Richter, I’ve infused my teaching with the same spirit of experimentation and freedom found in abstract art. By encouraging my students to embrace their individuality and express themselves boldly, I’ve not only fostered a love for art but also empowered future generations to see the world through a lens of boundless possibility and imagination.
What is your vision for yourself as an artist 5 years from now?
My vision is to have established a recognizable presence in the art world, Singapore and beyond, particularly within the realm of abstract art through exhibitions and collaborations, especially working with various communities.
Which one is your favorite artwork you have ever done and tell us why?
“Courtyard” draws inspiration from the treasured memories of my ancestral home, where family gatherings filled the air with joy and blissful, carefree days unfolded under the sun. The artwork features a prominent expanse of vibrant yellow, symbolizing the heart of the courtyard, a space where life converged and stories were shared. Surrounding this central area are layered textures and intricate details, suggesting the aged charm and rustic elements of the home, with hints of cooler tones representing the shaded nooks and surrounding structures.
Through a mix of vibrant colors and nuanced patterns, Courtyard evokes a sense of nostalgia, capturing the essence of cherished moments and the comforting embrace of a place that felt timeless. The painting invites viewers to step into a world where memories linger, and the passage of time adds depth to the warmth of the past.
Which is one of your most recent works?
"Blue Energy” pulses with a divine rhythm, where form and fluidity intertwine in a cosmic dance. The vibrant swirls suggest more than motion-they evoke the sacred silhouette of the remover of obstacles, emerging from the depths of abstraction. This painting hums with spiritual vibration, a convergence of earthly energy and celestial grace. Is it a vision, a revelation, or a trick of the eye? More than art, it is a portal to the spiritual, a meditation on transformation, and a celebration of the boundless energy that flows through all things. Let its enigmatic presence guide you, as it whispers secrets of movement, transcendence, and the infinite.