Art, in its purest form, is a reflection of life—capturing moments, emotions, and the essence of existence through colors, shapes, and textures. For those who choose to dedicate themselves to this craft, it becomes more than just a profession; it’s a way of seeing the world, of making sense of its complexities. Shashank Shukla is one such artist who has given himself completely to his art. Widely known as a watercolour artist and excelling in detailed figurative sketches, Shukla’s work is thoughtful, beautiful, and careful with each brushstroke. Like all of ours, his journey was marked with ups and downs, passion and perseverance, and most importantly, self-discovery. In this delightful conversation with him, we’ve unpacked everything that comes with following an unconventional career path like art.
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Early Life: How Did Art Find Him?
Born and raised in Kanpur, Shashank Shukla completed his high school and intermediate studies by 2009 followed by admission to B.Sc. Shashank tried his hand at banking exams as well—reminding us of how there existed only this or that routes when it came to higher studies. Not that this ‘norm’ has completely vanished, it still penetrates our society. Having failed twice during the first year of his undergraduate studies, Shashank was upset and demotivated beyond words. Still grateful for his parents and brother’s unwavering support, Shashank tells us how his brother encouraged him to pursue what truly made him happy; And that happened to be art. In a fortunate turn of events, Kanpur University introduced a Bachelor of Fine Arts program the same year Shashank decided to switch his major.
“Sometimes, when a good thing awaits you, there are bound to be difficulties you will face before. It’s upon you to face that with a positive mindset or a negative mindset,” Shashank reflects.
Shashank Shukla: “Everyone draws. As kids, all of us have. The society doesn’t take it seriously.”
Entering the inaugural batch of the Fine Arts program at Kanpur University in 2011, Shashank faced skepticism from a society that often trivializes artistic pursuits. “Everyone draws. As kids, all of us have. The society doesn’t take it seriously. ‘Drawing me kya hoga?’—we leave it because we don’t know how we can take it forward,” Shashank Shukla shares. However, with his family’s support, he navigated the course with determination, even securing a gold medal in his final year. This is the reason why Shashank believes that there should be efforts by private and public institutions to hold seminars on Art and the contemporary integration of this field in so many others fields like social sciences, film and cinema, technology, sciences, etc., so that all aspiring students can know how they can take their skills to the next sphere of life starting their higher studies.
Shashank’s journey was not without its challenges. His first year was a humbling experience, realising he was very much an amateur in drawing and painting, but with his dedicated mindset, Shashank kept on taking the steps of the ladder boldly. He opted for applied arts in his later year, and got training in watercolour painting, sketching, as well as sculpture, along with digital art.
Overcoming Societal Barriers and Personal Growth
The societal disregard for art and the pressure to secure a job weighed heavily on Shashank. The constant glances of his distant relatives would often try to make him question his career choice and the uncertainty of the future. “The society doesn’t support you. ‘Mai kya kar raha hun, yeh log is cheez ko aise kyu dekh rahe?’ I want to change these people—maar na hai toh apne kaam se maaro (respond to everyone who questions you with your work),” he asserts. Over time, as his work gained recognition, even his initially skeptical relatives began to appreciate his talent. This personal validation fueled his resolve to teach his students the value of using art as a medium of expression and change, and as one’s medium of livelihood as well.
This incident also reminds Shashank of how people often ask artists, as friends and relatives, to paint them a portrait or a scenery, free of cost. They see it as a hobby which doesn’t require much skill or efforts. Art, painting, sketching, are all denied of respect and value and that needs to be changed. Artists shouldn’t let their work be devalued or mocked any longer.
The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges, including job loss and financial instability. It was a huge backset for artists who depended upon their physical studios and art exhibitions. Amidst losing his job, (when he almost decided to go back to Kanpur), it also opened new avenues for Shashank. He started teaching students painting through the online mode and has taught over 2,500 students since 2020. This was also when Shashank started posting his work on social media. Today he has more than 80,000 followers admiring his work! Famously regarded as a ‘watercolour artist’, although that is a bit limiting to define this artist from Kanpur! Social media is a game changer for artists who want their art to reach beyond borders.
Final Words of Inspiration and Advice from the Watercolour Artist from Kanpur
For Shashank Shukla, art is not just a profession but a calling. He recommends all aspiring and young artists to go out and connect with nature, and observe their colours. Nature has infinite numbers of contrasts, shades, and hues to offer. As a watercolour artist who specialises in landscape paintings, he shares that regular outdoor and live sketching sessions help one overcome the fear of public scrutiny and brush observational skills.
Shashank’s vision extends beyond personal success. He dreams of creating more opportunities for aspiring artists by establishing art institutes across the nation. He advocates for equal opportunities in art education. Anyone with an interest should have the chance to develop their skills.
For all aspiring artists, Shashank Shukla gives the advice to set a strong intention, commit to your craft with all your heart, and persevere through the challenges. Success will come, whether early or late, but it’s crucial to remember that true achievement isn’t just about personal gain. An artist, Shukla believes, must think beyond themselves—uplifting others is key to progressing in any creative journey. When you work not just for yourself but for the betterment of those around you, that’s when you truly move forward.