We share an intricate relationship with nature: Rashmi Pitre

Rashmi Pitre’s innate creativity finds inspiration in nature. The artist’s solo exhibition, Inscapes, comprises abstract and semi-abstract paintings inspired by the feelings and moods in nature. Rashmi, who has exhibited her acrylic and oils on canvas in several cities across India, Canada and the US, tells us more about her creations...

You have always explored nature in your paintings. But this time, along with that you seem to have diverted the gaze inwards. How do your current works depict that feeling?

Inscapes are abstract and semi-abstract paintings inspired by the different moods of nature. I’ve been painting since early childhood and have travelled extensively in India and abroad, so I think the natural world has always been in my conscience and subconscious mind. Preservation and maintenance of the environment has primarily been my concern. Over the years, I have realised that the rocky hills, lush green hillocks, snow mountains, gushing waterfalls are all trying to convey something to us, which we need to listen and feel. There is an intricate relationship of feelings between the living world and us. Peace, silence, love, mystery, rage, it’s all to be found in it. However, I’m not trying to depict anything rigidly. It’s a spontaneous expression in the abstract on canvas.

Your use of bright and pastel shades is really interesting. What is the idea behind using these combinations of colours?

I’m instinctively attracted towards vibrant hues since I love their positivity and energy. Over the years, I have fallen in love with subtle pastel shades for more detailed work. The complexities of feelings and experiences can be prominently sketched. There are so many colours in nature. Some of them, like the blues, greens and the earthy shades are seen in my paintings. I have explored blue extensively in this series since I’m fascinated by its versatility. The choice of colours depends on my mood at the time of painting. But the use of the shades and their impact is a spontaneous journey and that’s why it’s thrilling.

As an artist, where do you seek your inspiration for your works? Are there other themes you would like to explore in the future?

There is no one single inspiration. Sometimes, I get motivated after hearing a beautiful song, or my life experiences. When I see the mountains, snowfall, rocky hillocks and the rains, I feel like painting. Most of the works in this series have been done at the time of monsoon. In future, I’m just keen to explore my work. I’m loving this journey. I’m curious to see how far I can explore in infinite nothingness. It’s like a poetry in the brush...What lies beneath is important.