This world needs more visual storytellers like Sheetal Verma. This artist calls herself Varna_Katha which is what a tale of colours would mean and her artworks, in her own words, reflect her journey of self-expression.
The artworks on her Instagram page are an inspiration to not just aspiring artists but also pull in people towards the charming universe of visual storytelling. I remember asking her if we could use one of her artworks for a cover in an issue focused on successful women. I was the editor of ‘Education Post’ then and wanted an artwork for the cover. A request was messaged, and we were fortunate to have this wonderful young artist, who was in IIM, Kozhikode, reply in the affirmative.
Art at home… the one on top is by Sheetal Verma (Varna_Katha) and the one below it is by Raseel Gujral
‘Sure,’ she wrote back, ‘Can email you a hi-res jpeg by email as the artwork may take some time to reach.’
‘That jpeg will be perfect,’ I wrote back, ‘And you may please keep the original with you. We will be glad to get your no-objection if the magazine prints your artwork on the cover.’
Varna_Katha artworks can be bought on www.fizdi.com. One simply needs to reach the website and search for Sheetal Verma. Life for an art lover cannot be made simpler than this, I presume. Her artworks are a nuanced treatment of women from the folk, mythological, and the contemporary world of women in India. Her brushwork and the way she plays with colour mixes is fascinating… and the mind of a viewer can easily conjure up a million stories for every artwork. She works with acrylics on paper and/or canvas.
Her art has a vivid portrayal of women, drawing inspiration from traditional Indian art forms and contemporary themes. Her piece ‘Lady and the Bird’ exemplifies this fusion, depicting a woman adorned in traditional attire, symbolizing the harmonious relationship between humans and nature. Similarly, ‘Chitralekha’ captures the essence of feminine grace and strength, reflecting the artist’s deep connection to Indian cultural narratives. Her ‘South Indian Lady Portrait’ highlights the elegance of traditional South Indian attire, while ‘Banjaaran’ portrays the free spirit of nomadic women, highlighting their resilience and vibrant culture. These works not only celebrate the diversity of Indian womanhood but also challenge societal norms by bringing marginalized stories to the forefront.
By integrating elements from folk traditions, mythology, and contemporary life, Sheetal Verma’s art serves as a visual dialogue that connects the past with the present. Her paintings invite viewers to explore the multifaceted experiences of women in India, emphasizing the importance of visual storytelling in preserving and reinterpreting cultural narratives. Sheetal’s visual storytelling is more than just an aesthetic pursuit. It is a powerful means of communication, a bridge between the past and the present, and a reflection of cultural identity. Through colors, textures, and forms, she breathes life into narratives that transcend words, evoking emotions and sparking dialogue.
For an artist who paints women from the folk, mythological, and contemporary perspectives of Indian womanhood, visual storytelling becomes a way to reclaim and reinterpret history. In folk traditions, women are often depicted as symbols of resilience, devotion, and wisdom, while mythological representations capture their divinity, strength, and contradictions. Contemporary narratives, however, explore the evolving roles of women in society, questioning norms and redefining power dynamics.
By weaving these perspectives together, the artist not only honors traditional artistic legacies but also challenges viewers to see the continuum of womanhood in India. The vibrant hues of Madhubani, the intricate details of Pichwai, or the expressive strokes of modern art—each choice amplifies the story being told. This form of storytelling does not merely document; it provokes, inspires, and transforms.
Visual storytelling allows the artist to become both a historian and a visionary, shaping how future generations perceive the essence of womanhood in India.
.
.
.
Arvind Passey
Written on 24 February 2025
