Unexpected Destinations

A long-time Columbus, Indiana resident, Usha Raghavan grew up living in many cities in India. "I remember doodling in school and sketching using pencils, but I never formally painted as a child because of lack of opportunities and means,” she said. Later in life, while desiring a creative outlet, painting found her. 

As luck would have it, she bought a painting from Indianapolis-based artist Quincy Owens, who was about to embark on a trip to India for an artist retreat. He considered the purchase divine intervention. Usha and Quincy met when he returned from his trip, and their journey into a teacher-student (Guru-Shishya) relationship began. 

Since that fateful day almost a decade ago, Usha has flourished, slowly refining and evolving her style and skills, from reproducing the works of others to passionately developing her own paintings. "In the past couple years, I have grown a lot. Now, I am confident in creating art and starting to see my own distinctive style of painting." 

This freedom is evident in her work, which, while not vast yet, is varied. Colors come together in abstract patterns and manage to speak to each spectator in a unique way. “I draw inspiration from memories, current events, and the mood I am in while being with my teacher learning the art form,” she said. “I am so glad my art is making a real connection with people, and I am blown away by the support of so many.”

The show can be viewed anytime in the Gallery Annex through the month of June during Gallery Hours: Monday – Friday from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. The works can additionally be viewed and purchased on our online gallery. All proceeds from the exhibit will be donated to charities supporting women.