'Artists are the same, be it in Chennai or Spain'

CHENNAI: From a sheet of paper, an old woman looks out - every crease of her weary face a story in itself. In another painting, a vivid pop of red dresses up an empty chair, the only colour in an otherwise muted background. In the midst of her paintings and sketches, sits Silvia Sanchez Ortega.
Inspiration can strike anywhere, says the Spanish artist who has been painting for nearly 25 years."I take notes and then try to replicate a scene later, or paint my perception of it," she says, fingering the pages of her book filled with sketches and their repetitions. Does she practise a lot? "It is a misconception that art is an innate talent. It comes with hours and hours of practice," she says, adding that she began sketching and painting as a child. "I held a lot of jobs over the years and had to paint on the side, but I finally came back to it."
In the city to conduct workshops and exhibitions as part of the 'Arts of the World' initiative by The Phoenix Company, the 49-year-old sees a lot of similarities between Spain and Chennai. "Artists are the same... We paint what inspires us, and I have seen a lot of them paint their surroundings- the trees, streets, people they know."
Portraits are her favourite and oils the preferred medium. "A portrait comes alive when you know the person you are painting," she says, unfurling a painting of her aunt, whose exuberance seems to leap from paper. "I am also experimenting with watercolours at the moment. I am glad I have time as they are a little difficult," says Silvia.
On the art community and its perception in society, she says, "Art is not encouraged as a career option in Spain, too, as parents wish their children to take up more 'useful' jobs that generate a stable income."
When it comes to payment for artists, it is almost always uneven, she says. "Well-known artists are paid way too much, and lesser-known artists too less."
Silvia was in the city about 20 years ago as a magazine designer for The Theosophical Society. "The city has changed so much," she remarks. "Indian art is a lot more colourful," she says, adding that even though she is not a fan of contemporary art, there are quite a few artists she likes.
The second installment of the workshop will be held from August 28 to 31, and will focus on portraits, landscapes, still life and painting techniques. The exhibition will be held at the Crowne Plaza on August 26 and from August 27 to 31 at Studio Palazzo in Nungambakkam.
(Maya Nandhini)