We recently connected with Aarti Bartake and have shared our conversation below.
Aarti , so excited to have you with us today. So much we can chat about, but one of the questions we are most interested in is how you have managed to keep your creativity alive.
For me, creativity is less about a single spark and more about an ongoing conversation with the world. It thrives in the little details—the play of light on water, the rhythm of a city street, the quiet patience of an artisan at work. I try to stay open to these moments, knowing that inspiration often comes when least expected.
Nature has always been my greatest muse. Bali, is a place I often return to for creative rejuvenation. The scent of frangipanis, and the golden light at dusk makes everything feel dreamlike. The island’s serene ambience, the rhythmic crash of waves, and the green swaying rice fields have continued to subtly influence my take on Art.
Travel, too, plays a big role in keeping my imagination alive. Every new place offers a fresh perspective, a different color palette, a new way of seeing the world. During a previous trip to Bali, I had an unforgettable sea-walking experience, where I found myself surrounded by the delicate beauty of marine life. That moment beneath the ocean’s surface inspired my Jewels of the Sea series, reminding me that wonder often exists just beyond what we can immediately see.
In Minneapolis, I wandered through Chalk Fest, watching artists transform pavement into fleeting masterpieces, each stroke filled with energy and impermanence. In Vietnam, I was captivated by artisans who meticulously embroidered entire landscapes, their stitches forming rivers, mountains, and stories passed down through generations. Seeing that level of patience and craftsmanship reminded me that art isn’t just about expression—it’s also about devotion.
My visit to Glacier National Park was another moment of creative awakening. The vast, untouched wilderness, with its towering peaks, pristine lakes, and shifting skies, left an undeniable impression on me. Inspired by its raw beauty, I created ‘Wonderful Nature’, a piece that captures the park’s grandeur and the sense of stillness that comes from being surrounded by such an awe-inspiring landscape.
More recently, my time in Switzerland left an imprint on my imagination in ways I’m still unraveling. The ever-shifting light over the snow-capped peaks, the mist rolling through Lauterbrunnen’s waterfalls, and the mirror-like stillness of alpine lakes felt like walking through a living painting. I found myself absorbing the subtle hues of dawn and dusk, the interplay of shadow and reflection—elements I know will find their way into my future work in ways I can’t yet predict.
Even closer to home, art itself fuels creativity. Immersing myself in exhibitions, collaborating with fellow artists, or revisiting ‘Gardens by the Bay’ for the works of Monet —whose water lilies once left me completely spellbound—helps me see endless possibilities in my own practice.
But creativity doesn’t just happen; it needs space to grow. I make time for quiet moments to sketch, paint, or simply let my thoughts wander. Meditation and mindfulness help me tune into my intuition, allowing ideas to emerge naturally. I’ve learned that creativity isn’t something to chase—it’s something to cultivate, like a garden that flourishes with care and curiosity.
As long as I keep exploring, asking questions, and staying open to the world around me, creativity will always find its way into my work in ways I never expect—and that’s what makes the journey so exciting.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Art, for me, is a powerful language—one that speaks through color, texture, and movement. As an award-winning artist, my work is deeply rooted in nature’s wonders, human connections, and the emotions that bind us all. I strive to capture the essence of fleeting moments and translate them into paintings that evoke joy, wonder, and introspection.
My Artistic Journey
My creative path began with academic excellence, graduating as a top student from SNDT University in Pune. I further honed my skills with a Diploma with Honors in Graphics, Animation, and Multimedia from Aptech Arena. After moving to Singapore, I pursued Art Exploration workshops with renowned painters Teh Chan Kerk and Wen Shan at My Art Space. These experiences helped me build a strong foundation for my artistic pursuits, allowing me to refine my expressive abstract style.
Exhibitions, Museum Recognition & Collaborations
Over the years, my work has been showcased in numerous international group and solo exhibitions, solidifying my place as an artist on the global stage. A defining moment in my career was when my art was acquired for the permanent collection of the prestigious Haemgeumgang Theme Museum in Geoje, South Korea—an honor that reaffirms the lasting impact of my work.
Beyond exhibitions, my art has found its way in corporate offices like GJC Law Firm, Catapult by Capitaland, hotels such as 21 Carpenters, and private collections worldwide. It has also been featured in leading lifestyle publications like Tatler Asia. One of the most unique aspects of my artistic journey has been inspiring artists across other creative domains. Dutch piano composer Alain Vandenbroeck has drawn inspiration from my paintings to create evocative musical compositions, showcasing how art transcends mediums and connects deeply with the human spirit.
The Energy Behind My Art
My artistic signature lies in my dynamic use of color and texture. I embrace both the chaos and harmony found in nature and human experiences, transforming them into vibrant compositions. My abstracts strike a balance between movement and stillness, evoking emotions that range from serenity to exhilaration. Whether through bold, expressive strokes or delicate, fluid transitions, my goal is to create pieces that resonate on a personal level with the viewer.
Giving Back Through Art
Art, to me, is not just about self-expression but also about impact. I actively engage in community projects, conduct enriching workshops, and serve as a jury member for various art competitions. My commitment to the art community extends to my lifelong membership with the Women Artists Association Singapore and my involvement with Mama on Palette, a platform supporting artist mothers.
Philanthropy has also been an integral part of my journey. Over the past decade, I have consistently donated a portion of my art sales to charitable organizations, thus using my passion to contribute to meaningful causes.
2025 is turning out be an exciting year filled with new projects, exhibitions, and artistic explorations. Inspired by my recent travels, I am working on a collection that reflects the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural influences I’ve experienced. As I continue to grow and evolve as an artist, my goal remains the same—to create art that inspires, uplifts, and connects people across borders.
To explore my work, learn more about upcoming exhibitions, visit aartibartake.com.
or connect with me on instagram – @aartibartakeart
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, three key qualities have been instrumental in shaping my journey as an artist: curiosity, resilience, and a strong sense of connection. These qualities have not only helped me evolve creatively but have also allowed me to build a fulfilling career in the arts.
1. Curiosity – The Drive to Keep Learning
From the beginning, I have always approached art with a deep sense of curiosity. Whether it was exploring different mediums, studying the works of masters like Monet, or immersing myself in new cultural experiences, I have found that staying open to learning has been crucial to my growth.
Advice for Emerging Artists: Never stop exploring. Experiment with techniques, visit galleries, travel, and engage with different artistic styles. Take workshops, study both traditional and contemporary art, and allow yourself the freedom to evolve. Growth comes from staying curious and embracing the unknown.
2. Resilience – Pushing Through Challenges
The artistic path, like any creative profession, comes with its share of challenges—self-doubt, creative blocks, or even external setbacks. Early on, I learned that resilience is essential. Not every painting turns out as envisioned, not every exhibition leads to immediate success, but every experience contributes to the journey.
Advice for Emerging Artists: Keep creating, even when inspiration feels distant. Not every piece will be perfect, and that’s okay. Learn to embrace failure as part of the process. Trust that persistence will refine your craft and open unexpected doors. Surround yourself with a supportive artistic community that encourages growth.
3. Connection – Building Meaningful Relationships
Art is deeply personal, yet it thrives on connection. Whether it’s engaging with fellow artists, collaborating across disciplines, or finding ways to resonate with audiences, the relationships we build add depth to our creative journey. Some of my most fulfilling experiences—like inspiring a musical composition by Alain Vandenbroeck or seeing my art displayed in corporate and museum collections—came from meaningful connections.
Advice for Emerging Artists: Actively engage with the art world. Attend exhibitions, join artist communities, and share your story. Building authentic relationships will open doors to opportunities and enrich your perspective. Remember, art is not just about self-expression—it’s about inspiring and being inspired by others.
Ultimately, I believe that staying curious, resilient, and connected creates a foundation for long-term artistic growth. Keep learning, keep creating, and most importantly, stay true to your unique voice.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
Yes, I am always open to meaningful collaborations with individuals and organizations who share a passion for creativity, storytelling, and the power of art to inspire and connect. Art is a universal language, and I believe that when creative minds come together, something truly special can emerge.
Who I’m Looking to Collaborate With:
Artists & Creatives – Whether you’re a painter, sculptor, musician, or digital artist, I love exploring interdisciplinary collaborations that merge different art forms into something unique and immersive.
Writers & Poets – I believe art and words can complement each other beautifully. If you’re a writer looking to pair poetry or prose with visual art, I’d love to explore ideas together.
Musicians & Composers – My work has already inspired musical compositions, and I am excited about continuing to bridge the gap between visual and auditory storytelling.
Galleries, Museums & Curators – I’m always interested in working with curators and galleries for exhibitions, artist residencies, and creative projects that bring art to new audiences.
Corporate & Hospitality Brands – My artworks have found homes in hotels, corporate spaces, and private collections. I welcome partnerships with interior designers, architects, and businesses looking for bespoke art commissions.
Sustainability & Conservation Initiatives – Given my deep appreciation for nature, I am especially keen on collaborations that raise awareness about environmental conservation, such as my Jewels of the Sea series inspired by coral reefs.
How to Connect & Collaborate
If you have an idea or project that aligns with my artistic vision, I’d love to hear from you! You can reach me through:
🌐 Website: aartibartake.com
📩 Email: aartibartake@gmail.com
📱 Social Media: Instagram – @aartibartakeart
Let’s create something meaningful together!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.aartibartake.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aartibartakeart/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/artistAartiBartake/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aartibartake/?originalSubdomain=sg
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AartiBartakeArtist
Image Credits
Navarasa Photo Arts, Singapore
Exquisite Art Gallery, Singapore
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
