Hema Nalini: A Multifaceted Artist and Advocate of Nature's Beauty
Hema Nalini: A Multifaceted Artist and Advocate of Nature's Beauty
Article by Dr Harvinder Mankkar
Hema Nalini, an Indian artist based in Hyderabad, is an accomplished illustrator, article writer, and hobbyist photographer. Her vibrant paintings convey powerful messages, while her photography captures nature in its pristine glory. Hema’s artistic pursuits extend to poetry, complementing her visual works with evocative words.
A self-taught artist, Hema intimately depicts nature in her landscape paintings, imbuing them with harmony and balance. Her works often feature rural Indian women, reflecting her deep connection to her roots. "As an artist, I often try to explore the world of art with different mediums and forms," she says.
Hema's passion for art began in her childhood, nurtured in a family of teachers in Andhra Pradesh. Her early life in the village fostered a love for nature, a theme that permeates her work. Despite excelling academically and in extracurricular activities, Hema's heart was always drawn to art.
After earning a postgraduate degree in microbiology, a Bachelor's in Education, and a Diploma in Bioinformatics from IIT Bombay, Hema began her career as a lecturer. However, her love for art led her to leave science and pursue artistry full-time. Her years in the United States further fueled this passion, transforming it into a profession.
Today, Hema is a successful artist with over 20 group exhibitions, participation in art camps, workshops, and numerous national and international online art exhibitions to her name. She has received various accolades, including the International Kalaratnam Award, Mahila Pratibha Award, and Mega Global Award. The International Education Forum in Australia conferred her with the Vishishta Kala Ratna Award.
Notable achievements include participation in "Colours of Independence, 75 Years of Art" by The Bombay Art Society and a first jury selection by the State Art Gallery, Hyderabad, in the All India Art Competition and Exhibition 2021. Hema has also earned medals in online art events conducted by Guinness World Records and Unique World Records.
Her talents extend to illustration, with her work gracing the cover of several Telugu literature books, earning appreciation from the Vice-President of India, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu. An article on her artistic journey was featured in the June edition of Lifestyle magazine.
Hema's contributions to art were recognized by Dr. Harikrishna Mamidi, Director of the Department of Language and Culture, Government of Telangana, at a Cultural Self-Painted Saree Ramp Walk event. She held a solo exhibition at Maker's Faire, T-Works Hyderabad, in December 2023.
Additionally, Hema has been chosen as a judge for The Times of India NIE Hyderabad edition's Colour Splash 2023-24 interschool painting competition. Her painting was featured on the cover of the October edition and the April 2022 edition of the Global magazine 'Cultural Reverence,' an international digital journal of art and literature.
Hema Nalini's journey from a science lecturer to a celebrated artist underscores her belief that art is a source of serenity and joy, proving that following one's passion can lead to a fulfilling and successful career.
