Art is a powerful tool to educate and inspire.
Roshan Sahi is a dedicated visual artist who has been making a mark in the artistic profession since 1996. His journey into the world of art began in the outskirts of Bengaluru, where he grew up and attended boarding school. After completing his basic education, Roshan decided to take a year off to explore the art and culture of various places. This journey took him to different parts of India and the UK, enriching his understanding and appreciation of diverse artistic traditions.
Coming from a family deeply rooted in the arts, with his father being a visual artist and writer and his mother a poet and educator, Roshan naturally inherited artistic qualities from both. He dreamed of becoming a visual artist and even entertained thoughts of being a dancer at times. To pursue his passion for art, Roshan underwent art training in Shantiniketan, a place renowned for nurturing creative talents. Alongside his formal art education, he also played acoustic instruments, the flute, and string instruments, showcasing his versatile artistic interests.
Despite his enthusiasm and talent, Roshan soon realized that the field of visual art was highly competitive. He faced the harsh reality that establishing himself in the art market would be a challenging endeavor. He had initially thought that his creative endeavors would seamlessly translate into market success, but he quickly learned that the market for visual art was limited and required much more effort and strategy than he had anticipated.
Seeking new avenues for his creativity, Roshan began spending time at his mother's school, observing the creativity and modes of expression of the students. This experience opened his eyes to the possibilities within the educational sector. He established ties with academia and started working on a project at the National Institute of Advanced Studies in Bengaluru. This project involved traveling to rural areas in Karnataka and visiting government schools. Here, Roshan connected with students and teachers at the primary level, coming up with innovative ways to use simple materials like sand, sticks, stones, and colors to tell stories and create beautiful artworks.
Roshan dedicated three years of his life to a district in Karnataka, immersing himself in the lives of students, parents, and children. This period allowed him to gain a deeper understanding of his own aesthetics and creativity. His focus on sustainability led him to explore the subject of ecology more thoroughly. This curiosity eventually led to a job as a horticultural therapist, where he worked with people with special needs. Using art and gardening as therapeutic tools, Roshan helped individuals become more aware of their relationship with nature and the environment, demonstrating the powerful connection between art, therapy, and ecological awareness.
When asked about his role models, Roshan cites the writings of Mahatma Gandhi as a significant source of inspiration. Gandhi's vision of an India that deeply understands and values its crafts resonates with Roshan's own artistic and ecological values. Gandhi's emphasis on self-reliance and sustainability has profoundly influenced Roshan's approach to both his art and his work as a horticultural therapist.
Roshan's journey as a visual artist has been one of continuous learning and adaptation. His ability to integrate his artistic talents with his passion for education and ecology has allowed him to make a unique and meaningful impact in various fields. Through his work, Roshan continues to inspire others to explore their creativity, connect with nature, and embrace sustainability in their lives.