30 exhibitions and 4 cities: How this art festival spreads creativity far and wide

Launched in 2014, PhotoSparks is a weekly feature from YourStory, with photographs that celebrate the spirit of creativity and innovation. In the earlier 865 posts, we featured an art festival, cartoon gallery, world music festival, telecom expo, millets fair, climate change expo, wildlife conference, startup festival, Diwali rangoli, and jazz festival.

The India Art Festival (IAF) wrapped up its Hyderabad edition this week, with a diverse range of artistic themes, styles and genres. See our coverage of IAF’s earlier editions from 2022 onwards in Bengaluru and Mumbai here.

In this photo essay, three artists from the Nehru Centre exhibition in Worli share insights on what art means to them, their choice of genre and style, and how the festival benefited them. They also provide hard-earned lessons and tips for aspiring artists.

Mumbai-based Danashrri Wazalwar has a background in textiles, hand embroidery and fashion. “I have dedicated over two decades to developing my distinctive artistic approach around the Mriga series, which explores the deep symbolism of deer in mythology and spirituality,” she tells YourStory.

IT engineer Ashwin Kumar leads media agency Digital Vibe, which specialises in the creative and technical sides of digital experiences. “Beyond the business, I have cultivated a strong interest in art, and receive insightful feedback from my art stream on social media,” he explains.

Mumbai artist Neha Gangal spent around 10 years in the corporate world before plunging into learning and practicing art. “My work is deeply inspired by my culture and identity, reflecting stories that resonate with my roots,” she says.

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Art and meaning

Gangal explains that art is a medium to express the emotions of the artist and others through colours instead of words. “Art gives me the ability to share unsaid stories,” she says.

For Kumar, deconstructing hyperrealism has given him a profound appreciation for the intricate beauty of nature, with artworks requiring months to complete. “I am an artist with red-green colour blindness, but my eight-year-old daughter helps me validate colour mixes and colour recognition apps help ensure accuracy on the canvas,” he explains.

For Wazalwar, art is a profound dialogue between energy, emotion, and the tangible world. “Art is not just a medium of expression but a spiritual and intellectual pursuit—a way to explore the unseen forces that shape our reality,” she says.

Style and genre

Kumar specialises in hyper-realistic landscapes, a style that demands meticulous detail and technical precision. “I am drawn to this form because of its ability to evoke a powerful and positive emotional response, something I feel is often under-appreciated in this modern age,” he describes.

“My work often focuses on Utsah (enthusiasm) and Umang (joy), infused with a playful attitude that comes alive through a vibrant colour,” Gangal explains. Each piece extends her thoughts and experiences, while also allowing viewers to reflect on deeper narratives.

Wazalwar describes her style as a fusion of layered textures, intricate detailing, and symbolic storytelling. “I work with mixed media, incorporating natural elements like plant pulp, gold, silver, and jewels to create artworks that evoke both visual and spiritual depth,” she says.

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Festival experience

For Wazalwar, exhibitions are always an enriching experience, offering direct engagement with art lovers, collectors, and fellow artists. “Many viewers connect emotionally with my Mriga series and its spiritual undertones,” she enthuses. Her works are priced from Rs 25,000 to Rs 7 lakh.

“For me, success is not measured in sales or exhibition counts, but in the immediate, awe-struck response of those who experience my art. Due to my primary business, I am privileged to create without the financial pressures faced by many full-time artists, which may diminish the integrity of their artworks,” Kumar explains. His works are priced from Rs 50,000 to Rs 2.5 lakh.

Gangal, whose artworks are priced from Rs 25,000 upward, says she was both humbled and motivated by her festival experience. “I was humbled and inspired by the amazing work of my fellow artists, and motivated by the great interest shown by visitors in my artwork and the underlying stories,” she explains.

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Tips and advice

All three artists share lessons from their diverse experiences for aspiring creators. For example, Kumar believes true art comes from internal exploration and finding one’s own style. 

“Create for yourself first. When art becomes solely about money, the creative spirit often suffers. Actively exhibit your work; it expands your audience, provides motivation, and connects you with key industry figures,” he suggests.

Artists should not underestimate the power of social media either. “It has been a game-changer for my artistic journey,” he affirms.

“Stay true to your artistic voice and never stop experimenting. Mastery comes with persistence, and every artwork is a step in your journey,” Wazalawar says.

“Be patient, be open to learning. Most importantly, create with passion and authenticity,” she adds.

Gangal advises aspiring artists to stay true to their vision and let the art speak their story. “Patience and consistency are key, as the artistic journey is filled with both challenges and triumphs,” she observes.

Aspiring creators should not be afraid to experiment, make mistakes, and learn from them. “Growth often comes from unexpected places,” she adds.

“Engage with the art community, seek feedback, and always stay curious. Most importantly, believe in yourself and your work—when your heart is in your art, success follows naturally,” Gangal signs off.

Now, what have you done today to pause in your busy schedule and harness your creative side for a better world?

(All photographs were taken by Madanmohan Rao on location at India Art Festival Mumbai 2025.)