It’s been close to a decade since artist Masuram Ravikanth broke into the art scene. He’s created a series of works on rocking horses and many others... but he always finds himself going back to the ’70s and creating work that bears a connect with the decade.
Q When did you decide to take up art?
I come from a family of artists, where both my father and grandfather were artists, so art was sort of in my blood... My first artwork was sold in the year 2001 after I finished my BFA. Back then it sold for Rs 10,000 and that was a huge amount for me.
Q Who is your inspiration?
My father and grandfather. I didn’t need to look further than my family.
Q A turning point in your life?
Actually there were two. The first was when I moved to Karnataka for further studies. Coming from a small village near Warangal and moving to a different state, changed everything. I started reading more about art and that broadened my horizons. I studied in a Telugu medium school, so being exposed to different languages was a great experience.
The other point was when I was in Mumbai. I went around the place looking for art galleries to showcase my work and at one art gallery the person there told me ‘Get out’. I was initially taken aback, but I walked away from there. It left me a little shaken, but that was enough to push me to do better.
Q Any regrets?
No. I’ve learnt to give everything a try and even if it doesn’t turn out to be great it’s alright.
Q Where do you see yourself five years from now?
It’s hard to answer this... I want to become a better artist and do much better work. But my work is forever evolving... whatever I do, I hope I am able to give it my best.
