Exploring the Wonders of Nature: An Interview with Krishi Shah

Art is a form of self-expression for any Artist. Every artist holds different kinds of art describing several meanings. The major ways of expressing the thoughts are painting and sketching. Every artist needs a place to showcase their talent and the Kala Spandan art fair is one of them. It is a leading International platform for contemporary art designed by Indian Art promoters for all kinds of artists, sculptors, galleries, photographers, animators, art Institutes,  art stores & art magazines etc. This year the fair consisted of 400 artists with their 5000 art. The art fair included artists from disability to young artists who have proven that art isn’t limited to disability or specific age. Youthincorporate Magazine visited the art fair and talked with multiple people who have come to present their artistic work via this exhibition. We met the 24-year-old Krishi Shah, the nature artist who represents nature through her art so beautifully. Some works are SUNDARBANS, GULF OF MANNAR, HIDDEN ARGYLE, GREEN GUARDIAN, and CIRCLE CYCLE each art has a different meaning.

About Krishi Shah

Krishi Shah (b. 2000), a visual artist based in Mumbai, India, graduated from the prestigious California College of the Arts, San Francisco, in 2022, where she was awarded a merit scholarship throughout her studies her deeply rooted work in the belief that nature is not merely a refuge but a vital connection to our inner selves. Her artistic practice mirrors the solace and sense of belonging she finds in natural spaces, feeling as though she were an ancient tree—grounded, stable, and at home in the world. The pandemic heightened her sense of confinement, driving her to seek even deeper connections with nature as a sanctuary. Each piece portrays nature’s fleeting dance—its unique personalities and interconnections. From the whisper of the wind to human emotions that evoke joy, solitude, or contemplation, each brushstroke becomes a tribute to life’s poetry. This meticulous process is meditative for her, fostering a deep connection with her work.

To learn more about her artistic journey we have interviewed her.

1. When did your journey as a nature artist begin, and what inspired you to specialise in this field?

My journey as a nature artist began in my childhood. I was always that kid who could spend hours locked in a room, completely absorbed in painting. Art and Films were my escape, a way to express myself, and I found immense joy in it. As I grew older, I followed a more conventional path, and I drifted away from art for a while.

In college, I rekindled my relationship with creativity. I pursued animation, which allowed me to reconnect with storytelling and visual expression. However, it was during the lockdown that I truly returned to painting. The stillness of that time gave me the space to reflect, and I found myself gravitating towards nature—my lifelong source of inspiration. Rain leaves and the colour green have always lifted my spirits, offering a sense of happiness and calm that I wanted to translate into my work.

Painting about nature during the lockdown wasn’t just about creating art; it became a way for me to process my emotions and find solace. It felt like coming home, reconnecting with a part of myself that had always been there, quietly waiting to bloom.

 2. How do you manage your personal and artistic life together? 

Balancing my personal and artistic life requires structure and consistency, especially as I also work as a concept artist. It takes a while to sustain oneself as an independent full-time artist, so I’ve learned the importance of creating a routine and balance. I dedicate specific hours to my artistic practice every day, regardless of whether inspiration strikes. I believe consistency is key—painting even on days when ideas feel scarce helps build discipline and ensures continued growth.

To maintain balance, I also prioritize time for myself. Regular outings in nature, galleries, site visits, or simply moments to pause and be present are essential for staying grounded. Without this, burnout and self-doubt can creep in. These practices not only nurture my mental well-being but also serve as a wellspring of inspiration for my art. By structuring my days and making space for both work and rest, I’ve found a rhythm that allows me to sustain my creativity and personal growth.

3. How does your connection to nature influence your artistic process and themes?

My connection to nature is the heart of my artistic process and themes. Being surrounded by nature feels like stepping into a sanctuary—it brings me immense mental peace and a sense of belonging. In a world consumed by the rat race, where we often lose sight of simply existing, nature reminds me of the bigger picture. When I’m in nature, I feel grounded, like a tree or any other creature—at home and at ease. 

Through my art, I aim to capture and promote this feeling of harmony and stillness, emphasizing how vital nature is to our lives. My work often reflects themes of conservation and focuses on beautiful landscapes rich in biodiversity, such as the Western Ghats, Sundarbans, and the Himalayan regions, which need our attention. I abstract the colours, patterns, and emotions of nature, blending them almost magically to create pieces that evoke wonder and contemplation.

Above all, my goal is to inspire others to cherish and protect what protects us. Nature is not only a source of beauty but also balance and resilience, and my art seeks to honour and amplify that message.

4- How did you recognise your talent? 

For me, the recognition of my talent came naturally as a child. I was always drawn to telling stories and painting—it was inseparable from who I was. Whether it was at home or school, I gravitated toward anything creative. People often told me they loved what I made, but for me, art was never just about technical skill or how well I could draw. I believed art was about much more: storytelling, expression, and its ability to stand for something and move people emotionally.

I knew early on that art was my purpose, and I wanted to pursue it, no matter how unconventional or challenging the path might be. I also firmly believe talent isn’t something you’re simply born with. While having an innate passion helps, it’s the hard work, perseverance, and constant unlearning of traditional notions—such as art being only decorative—that truly help you grow and refine your craft. My journey has been about developing the skills and voice to create meaningful art that connects with others on a deeper level.

5- What mediums and techniques do you typically use to bring nature to life in your art?

I primarily use oil paints for their vibrancy and soothing, meditative process. I begin each piece with an underpainting, which lays the foundation and helps guide the composition. From there, I build up layers gradually, creating a sense of openness, depth, and richness. This layering technique allows me to capture the subtle interplay of colours and textures, bringing my connection to nature’s beauty and harmony to life.

6- What does your art describe to the viewers? Is there any specific message? 

My art invites viewers to fully immerse themselves in the sensations, emotions, and healing power of my creations. Growing up in a society driven by a relentless race for success—where validation was often tied to achievement—I began questioning conventional definitions of worth. I challenge the belief that we must constantly prove our value, instead embracing the idea that we are enough as we are, just like any creature in nature.

With each piece, I seek to capture nature’s fleeting dance—its unique personalities and interconnections. From the whisper of the wind to the range of human emotions that evoke joy, solitude, or contemplation, each brushstroke is a tribute to life’s poetry. This meticulous process is meditative for me, allowing me to foster a deep connection with my work.

Through abstracted colours, I translate the heat, chaos, mystery, magic, and harmony that nature embodies, while rendering the fog, diversity, and subtle mystique of these landscapes. These places, rich in natural heritage, hold stories of resilience and coexistence that I aim to bring forward in every piece.

I also choose to depict places that are in dire need of attention for biodiversity conservation, such as the Western Ghats, Sundarbans, and Himalayan regions. Climate change in India is drastically affecting its flora and fauna—rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns are shrinking habitats and endangering species. Through my work, I advocate for mental well-being and environmental conservation, emphasizing the importance of protecting the natural world, which, in turn, protects us.

7- How has participating in such a prestigious event influenced your perspective as an artist?

Participating in such an event has broadened my perspective as an artist. It provided valuable exposure and the chance to connect with fellow artists, gaining insights into their work and learning about various art practices. Engaging with viewers and receiving feedback allowed me to understand better how my art resonates with them emotionally, helping bridge the gap between my intentions as an artist and how my work is perceived. Additionally, it offered an excellent opportunity to network and build connections with collectors, interior designers, and architects, further expanding my professional relationships within the art world.

8- What is the reason behind selecting nature as an art? 

I chose nature as the central theme of my art because it has always been a source of solace and connection for me. Growing up, nature’s presence was my escape from the noise and chaos of modern life. It provided me with mental peace, grounding me in a way that nothing else could. In today’s world, where we often get lost in the rat race, I believe nature reminds us of the bigger picture—that we are enough simply by existing.

Nature’s beauty, diversity, and resilience inspire me to tell stories that evoke a sense of wonder, grounding, and reflection. Through my work, I aim to highlight the importance of protecting the natural world that protects us. By focusing on conservation themes and depicting endangered places, I hope to foster awareness about the urgent need to preserve biodiversity, while also encouraging others to reconnect with the healing power of nature

9- What message would you like to give to the upcoming artist? 

To upcoming artists, I would advise staying committed to your passion. Focus on the purpose behind your work rather than financial gains. If you’re true to your craft, success will follow in due time. It’s important to consistently put in the effort—draw, paint, or create every day. Stay curious and keep learning, whether it’s through attending art events, fairs, or opening nights. Network with fellow creatives, seek constructive feedback, and continuously refine your skills. The journey may take time, but persistence, dedication, and connection with others will guide you toward growth and fulfilment in your artistic career.