Swati Rastogi
Instagram: @swatirastogi.arts
617-955-9431
From the time I remember, Art has always been my passion, driving me to a formal education that included my Bachelors in Fine Arts and Masters in History of Arts. My art is a combination of both Fine Arts and Crafts. I have developed my own style which involves my study, culture, traditions, aesthetics, emotions and intellect. I am highly influenced by folk and tribal arts of India- motifs from these reflect consistently in my creations. My connections with the indigenous artists of India and exposure to the international exhibitions and workshops has motivated me to paint further. Imbibing the social and cultural values, my works are recognized for their elegance and attention to detail. I work in mixed media. Its ornamental sometimes. Besides making art for the walls, I paint a lot of art that is functional. I love patterns. I observe them in everyday things from my food to my clothing to my art making. Having spent time with tribal artists of central India and many other states, I have a deep connection with the indigenous arts of India as well as America. I have lived a very artful life on the East Coast prior to moving to the Bay Area in late 2019. My contributions to the art scene in Jersey City were recognized by one and all and can be evidenced by the fact that I was awarded a citation by the mayor himself. Some of my major works include painting a couple of murals at arguably one of the most prominent Indian chain restaurants in New Jersey, a restaurant in New York city, painting the streets of downtown Jersey City for one of the biggest LGBTQ Pride festivals for two consecutive years, painting four catch basins (in Jersey City) and a few public art projects in the Tri Valley CA.
I paint a lot of mandalas- a motif of completeness and integrity. The design begins from a circle and then gradually emanates to bigger and fuller patterns, keeping everything to one central point. I also paint a lot of tribal art narratives of life and people. Some figures, some daily life, some nature. A few works speak of inspirations from Gond art since it is a part of me and my studies. Currently playing around with some abstract compositions, playing with textures over textures, revisiting my much older themes. Besides these, I do a lot of private commissions and a few art fairs and festivals. I have been an active participant of the Jersey City Art and Studio Tour for several years and now I am a part of the Tri Valley Art and Studio Tour and involved in various other art events in the Tri Valley.