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Reflections in glass
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Radhika Shetty discovered her love for glass painting rather accidentally. Today, she does not know how to contain orders
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Radhika Shetty: `Every piece to me is special.' — Photo: K. Murali Kumar
MANY WOMEN, who opt to stay at home, tend to spend their free time watching television, reading, and meeting up with friends. But not Radhika Shetty. Though she doesn't mind watching the idiot box and reading, she prefers to make use of her time in "a more constructive manner", which according to her means "doing something tangible, and that which is close to her heart".
Artistic by nature, she took to the world of colours and sketching as a child. She never sought any professional training. To this day, whenever she sketches or paints, it is merely her "inner instinct that takes over". It was during one such journey into art that she discovered she had a fascination for glass painting.
Initially, it was simply her fascination for the art. Soon, she turned into a skilled artist and friends and family were snapping up all that she produced. Such popularity for her works even prompted her to think of a solo exhibition. The dream was realised in August 2000 and all of Radhika's works were displayed. The exhibition was a big success that all the exhibits were sold out. Finally, Radhika was forced to stay up all night to create a few more pieces for the concluding day.
Ever since, Radhika has been flooded with orders and there has been no turning back. But she has had to turn down many orders as she works only to "satisfy my love for the art and not turn it into a commercial venture. I'm not averse to doing more than what I'm doing now, but not at the cost of being hassled with too many orders. Every piece to me is special."
Besides wall hangings, her creations also include some stunning lampshades, trays, key holders, and napkin-holders. Unlike the usual procedure in which a drawing is usually traced on to the glass, Radhika believes in freehand sketching. "If I have to trace them on to glass, there would be no originality. My creativity will not be expressed there. Besides, I do this because I enjoy sketching and the joy lies in actually drawing out those designs."
Festival time and marriage season is particularly busy for Radhika. It is actually surprising to learn that it is by word of mouth that people have learnt about her works. So much so that she even gets orders from the U.S..The beautifully structured sunflower and tulips, Winnie the Pooh gobbling up all the cherries in the basket, and many more such pieces are eye-catching and one knows why customers keep coming back to for more.
Radhika Shetty can be contacted at C-303, Landsdowne Apartments, 7th Cross, Domlur, or on 25359079.
N.S.
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