Today, we live in a career-oriented world. What you choose for your career will determine your future, not only in terms of money but also your status and relationships. A constant societal pressure to become an engineer, a doctor or a lawyer exists, especially in India. So, opting for an unconventional or creative career in such an environment can be tough. Sushmit Kishore, is here to share his experience and learnings as someone who chose to pursue a creative career.
Humble Beginnings
Though Sushmit Kishore was never an academic genius, his passion for art surpasses all. He has been drawing since he was as young as three years old! But his talent was recognized when he was in fifth grade.
They had a free period in school, Kishore narrates the tale. He was drawing away in his notebook when his partner showed the teacher his sketch. Since he was not good at studies, he had never received much attention from his teachers. But his drawing left her speechless! She showed the sketch to his art teacher.
He instructed Kishore to draw the same thing on the blackboard. Both were amazed by Sushmit Kishore’s talent. Then they introduced him to a senior art teacher, who then made him participate in various drawing competitions. Soon, he began to get recognized for his work.
He started drawing sketches for his friends, who always left in awe of his talent. He would draw maps whenever he forgot to bring them to school. And all the competitions and encouragement from his peers and professors gave him the exposure and confidence he needed. Not only this, but he also was able to gain a lot of experience.
“I never thought I would choose art as my career because I never took it seriously.”
Sushmit Kishore
Aside from art, Sushmit Kishore was also very into music. In eighth grade, he started playing the guitar. And by the last three years of school, he decided to pursue music as a career. But soon after school ended, he realized that his love for music was not enough to make it a career path. Your career path is a life-time commitment, something you will have to do all your life. And for him, that was art.
Choosing the Unconventional Path
Kishore enrolled in law college in 2016. But in reality, he wanted to pursue art. By 2017, he had cemented his decision. He was stubborn even though it was not appreciated by many, and he did not have the support of his father. You see, his father, like most parents, believed that there was no future in art – no money. But Kishore knew what he wanted to do with his life.
It was not easy, he admits. It is hard to oppose the expectations parents build for their children, but sometimes it is necessary. Sure, their behaviour is influenced by societal standards and concern. But at the end of the day, you cannot force someone to pursue a career they do not want to. That will only lead to the failure of the child.
Kishore did not want that for himself. Hence, despite all the hurdles he knew he would face, he chose art. For you, can take never take the artistry out of an artist. And Sushmit Kishore is an artist – through and through.
Lessons Learned in The Journey
Failure is inevitable. Kishore believes it to be a part of the process. It has to happen for you to learn and grow. All of which is required for you to achieve your goals. Having unrealistic expectations is never going to help. Instead, focusing on the process and consistently working hard will push one closer to their goals.
“The process of making art has taught me the importance of patience, observation, understanding. It is about mastering your senses”
Sushmit Kishore
He talks about how art has taught him patience. Once you start looking at things as they are, you neither exaggerate them nor degrade them. You observe. Your senses heighten, and your brain is at peace. He shares how people invalidate his art as it focuses on hyper-realism. But the truth is, replicating reality is one of the hardest things to do. You have to observe and understand each crease and curve, lights and shadows, emotions and tell their story on your sheet of paper.
“You can be inspired by anything and anyone.”
sushmit Kishore
Sushmit Kishore admits that he likes to take inspiration from anything and everything. And music is a big part of that. Zayn Malik, Mike Shinoda and Eminem are three artists that pose as his greatest inspirations. Their success and advanced skills always fascinated him. It is something he wants to achieve in his field.
His Advice for Young Aspirants!
Everything is possible. Do not let others tell you what to do; follow your passion. But remember the principles of patience, understanding and observation along with consistent practice and growth. Do not carry hate for anything or anyone, and try to find peace in your lives. There is no right time waiting for you to start. Whatever it is you want to do, start now.
