We’re looking forward to introducing you to Indra Persad Milowe. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Indra, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
I know I will not always be energetic. And there are many people in this world who are more intelligent than me. Integrity is absolutely crucial. If you give your word, your promise to do something, to help another human being or a cause and you do not follow through, all of your energy and intelligence are of no use.
“Image is what people think we are. Integrity is what we really are.”
John C. Maxwell
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My work has gained international recognition, leading to numerous exhibitions and press releases. My travels have significantly influenced my art, as seen in my three collections: (1) Beautiful Ubud, Bali, (2) My Journey to Morocco, and (3) Festivals & Folklore of Trinidad, West Indies. My time as an Artist-in-Residence in Ubud, Bali, allowed me to immerse myself in local traditions, attending festivals and ceremonies that enriched my artistic repertoire. In addition to my exhibitions, my contributions to the Rotunda Gallery in the Red House, Port of Spain, and Art Impact International in Washington, D.C., showcase my commitment to sharing my culture and stories with the world. My attendance in the Singapore International Festival of Arts (SIFA 2023) further highlighted my global participation. My recent residency at Mauser Eco House in Costa Rica culminated in the creation of a 6 x 6-foot mural titled Lutchmie and the donation of one of my paintings to a local restaurant. My public art for Salem, MA, consisted of two outdoor painted artworks. I painted two large murals in my art studio, Tulsi and Rishi. My love of painting, joined with planning, persistence, and publicity have helped me to exhibit my art and gain recognition.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who taught you the most about work?
My artistic journey began in my youth, nurtured by the encouragement of my high school art teacher, Mrs. Helga Mohammed. Mrs. Mohammed, a native of Madrid, married to a Trinidadian, left an indelible mark on my artistic perspective. On the first day of class, she inscribed on the blackboard: “Art is not just a painting hanging up on a wall, art is in every aspect of your daily life.” This profound statement resonated with me, shaping my understanding of art’s omnipresence. During my high school years, my talent blossomed. My paintings were chosen for the school’s yearbook for two consecutive years. At 15, I painted orchids on a branch, capturing nature’s delicate beauty. At 16, I created a still life featuring an apple, pear, and a bunch of grapes. These early works garnered incredible reviews, boosting my confidence and affirming my artistic potential.
Despite my passion for art, my career took a different path. I pursued nursing, a profession that took me across continents. I worked in England, Malta, Trinidad, and the United States. Only after retirement from that profession did I reignite my youthful desire to be a successful artist. Where one road ends, a new one begins!
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
My very first public exhibition at a lovely public library was in March, 2020. One week after it opened, a public emergency, the COVID pandemic, closed the library for 18 months! So lots of flies and spiders and maybe the night watchman were my only viewers! Finally, after the library reopened, my exhibition was shown for three months. It garnered great praise and recognition, and so finally, my art career was really launched!
I took advantage of the pandemic period to discover the digital art world. I entered exhibitions in the United States as well as in Trinidad, West Indies.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
In this age of preoccupation with social media and constant texting, it seems that many people have forgotten the joy of quiet time and reading. Sarah Jessica Parker is a voracious reader! In this regard, she is a role model for youth and for us all. She works on projects for the American Library Association. In 2025, Parker served as an executive producer on the documentary The Librarians focusing on librarians combating book banning in the United States. She is also a serving as a judge this year for the prestigious Booker Prize, awarded to outstanding writers.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope that people will know that I contributed to our community. When they sit in one of our public squares, where farmers’ markets and outdoor concerts are regularly held, they will see what I left behind! I painted a huge ugly green utility box there in beautiful bright rainbow colors (named Kailash). And just across the street, on Artists’ Row, I painted the 24 dull black bollards in bright multicolored patterns (collectively named Mirabai). I believe public art can make people smile and it can brighten their days. And for that, I am very grateful.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.indrapersadmilowe.com
- Instagram: indra.persad.milowe
- Facebook: Indra Persad-milowe
Image Credits
Joshua Satyam Milowe
George Milowe
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