VINI
530 West 25th Street, New York, NY
Vini Venugopal, a.k.a. ‘ViniV, believes in getting close with her oil paintings – so close in fact, that the artist skips a brush and creates by use of her fingertips. Upon a creative painting session with her young son, ViniV discovered the liberating potential the method offered. From that point on, she committed to finger painting and currently crafts expertly detailed and excitably colorful scenes of varying forms and identities. Hypnotic performers, galloping midnight blue horses, and the soul-revealing eyes of wild animals are only several of ViniV’s surrealist makings. Growing up, her father’s transferable job required many moves across India. ViniV saw this as a massive contributor to her artform, as it provided her sights and sensations she would have never experienced had she lived a more sedentary lifestyle. Natural landscapes like the Bahrain palm gardens and desert safaris, are a source of inspiration for the artist, alongside her rich cultural exposure to both modern and traditional Saudi Arabia – a place she now resides. Women empowerment and wildlife conservation are two main subjects of commentary within ViniV’s art. Inclusions of animals and woman permit the artist to open discussions on wildlife protection, animal cruelty, and the support for a woman’s place in society.
ViniV was born and raised in India and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Fashion Illustration and Design. The artist participates in exhibitions across the world and her portrait of the Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince titled, His Royal Highness, the Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Bin Abdul-Aziz Al Saud, was presented and accepted in the country’s palace. ViniV has also worked with charities, such as the Sanad Children’s Cancer Support Association, by raising money through the sale of her art. “I feel very fulfilled and happy when people enjoy my artwork and it brings a smile to their face,” she says. “Especially when they relate to the essence of what I have tried to capture.”
VINI VENUGOPAL ON
After exploring traditional painting techniques with oils and watercolors, I found my true path in finger painting. By eliminating any barriers between my hand and the canvas, I feel an unparalleled sense of freedom. I am able to channel my passion and emotions with the utmost purity and intensity and form a genuine bond with the viewer. Having grown up between southern India and the Middle East, my art reflects the amalgamation of cultures and ethnicities and the stunning natural variety of these geographies. Wildlife and animals are abundant in both regions, influencing not only lifestyle, but also culture and religion, the essence of which runs across the majority of my artworks. I also reference traditional music and dance celebrations as well as clothing and accessories worn by locals. No matter the subject matter, nature is the underlying thread encompassing my oeuvre. Even when I depict objects and figures, the choice of colors, depth, and movement is inspired by my natural environment and its breathtaking beauty.
