Meet Dr.gattem Venkatesh

We were lucky to catch up with Dr.gattem Venkatesh recently and have shared our conversation below.

Dr.gattem, looking forward to learning from your journey. You’ve got an amazing story and before we dive into that, let’s start with an important building block. Where do you get your work ethic from?

miniature art form

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

Dr.Gattem Venkatesh is a pioneering World micro-artist and architect recognized for his extraordinary ability
to merge art, design, and cultural storytelling on the smallest of canvases. His works—ranging from intricate
sculptures carved onto pencils and seeds to detailed miniatures of architectural landmarks—embody
both technical mastery and deep cultural meaning.Emerging from humble beginnings, Venkatesh has overcome
significant challenges to establish himself as one of World most innovative creative voices. His practice stands out for
its fusion of architecture and micro-art, where he translates monumental ideas into delicate, portable works of art.
Through this, he makes culture, history, and design accessible to a global audience in uniquely powerful ways.
His achievements have earned him national and international recognition, including features in record books,
exhibitions, and cultural showcases. Beyond his personal creations, Venkatesh’s journey inspires countless young
artists and designers to pursue their craft with resilience, imagination, and purpose.Today, Dr.Gattem Venkatesh is celebrated not only for his artistic excellence but also for his vision of using art as a medium for cultural preservation, innovation, and global dialogue.

Dr. Gattem Venkatesh is an World micro-artist. He has carved many sculptures and names on a wide range of mediums, including toothpicks and pencils. He came to notice after winning the Guinness World record for carving
the Empire State Building on a toothpick.

Early life and career : Gattem Venkatesh was born in Chinadoddigallu village,
Visakhapatnam district on 28 May 1996. His father Suribabu supports his
family as farmers and his mother Satyavati is a housewife. He completed
schooling at Gowtham Model School and Graduated from GITAM school of
architecture in 2019. Masters from New York institution of technology .in 2024
At New York , USA

Art : Venkatesh started his first sculpture after the tenth standard, a miniature
of Lord Ganesh on Bangles. With constant support from his family, he
continued his work as a micro-artist. Some of the well-known micro-sculptures
made by Venkatesh Include, Empire State Building on Toothpicks, which helps
him to bag Guinness world record in 2017.

Legacy : Venkatesh conducts annual workshops to teach youth about Micro-art
in more than 80 schools, mostly in government and rural areas. He has trained
about 24,000 students. He teaches children to make decorative items out of
Waste Materials.

Here’s a more detailed look at Gattem Venkatesh:
Micro Art: His work is characterized by its incredible detail and precision,
pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in micro art.
Guinness World Record Holder: He has been recognized by the Guinness
World Records for his astonishingly detailed creations.
Smallest toothpick sculpture , replica of empire state building on single
toothpick ,
its height : 18mm , within 21 minutes
Artist and Designer: both a visual artist and a designer, with his work
showcasing a wide range of artistic skills.
Architect: also an architect, further expanding his skill set and creative
expression.
National Awards: has been awarded the National Youth Award, the Rashtriya
Gaurav Award, and 100 + Awards
Limca Book of Record: 5432 Paper boats mosaic largest boat .
Founder of VENKY-ART: He is the founder of VENKY-ART, a platform for
showcasing his work and artistic endeavors.
Padmashri : Nominated for 4th civilian award in the filed of Art in social service
.
Awards : – Guinness Book of records for world’s smallest Empire State Building
on a toothpick in 2017-Limca Book of Records in 2016- Artist Certification ,New Jersey govt ,USA – America President Appreciation Letter – India book of records for 90 cm tall Eiffel Tower
with empty thread
reel in 48 hours- Rashtriya Gauram Samman by NYAFI in 2018- Ugadi Puraskar by the Government of Andhra Pradesh in 2018- Honorary Doctorate from International peace University, Germany- National Youth Award in 2019 by Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports,
Government of India- World Records India for Miniature Matchstick carving.[7]- Unique World Records for biggest Paper boat mosaic made by Most
Paper boats

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Gattem Venkatesh’s pioneering blend of micro-art and architectural precision has inspired
both emerging and established artists to explore miniature scales with greater technical rigor
and cultural depth. His demonstrations, public exhibitions, and workshops have led to a
noticeable increase in micro-art awareness in both mainstream and niche art markets.
Educational institutions and art festivals have incorporated his techniques into their programs,
ensuring that his methods are shared with the next generation of creators.

Impact of the ProjectWork
The impact of this project has been profound and multifaceted. By conducting workshops in
over 80 schools, predominantly in government and rural settings, and training over 24,000
students, the project has significantly enhanced the accessibility and appreciation of art in
these communities. Students have been empowered to express their thoughts, emotions, and
perspectives through art, fostering a culture of creativity and innovation. This initiative has
also contributed to the participants personal development, enhancing their confidence, focus,
and patience through the meticulous process of creating micro art.
Moreover, the project has facilitated a stronger sense of community and collaboration among
students, as they share materials, ideas, and techniques. The environmental aspect of using
waste or easily available materials has heightened awareness about sustainability, teaching
students to see value in what is often overlooked. This holistic approach to art education has
not only cultivated artistic talent but has also sown the seeds for a more sustainable,
inclusive, and expressive society

Thanks so much for sharing all these insights with us today. Before we go, is there a book that’s played in important role in your development?

Several key factors contribute to the success and ongoing impact of this project. Firstly, the
innovative approach to art education, focusing on micro art and the use of accessible
materials, ensures that the workshops are inclusive and sustainable. Secondly, the dedication
and expertise of the individual leading this initiative provide students with high-quality
instruction and mentorship, inspiring them to pursue their artistic interests further.
Community engagement and support play a crucial role in the projects success. By partnering
with local schools, government bodies, and non-governmental organizations, the project
ensures a wide reach and sustainability. Additionally, the positive media coverage and
recognition through awards and records have raised awareness of the project, attracting
volunteers, sponsors, and participants.
Lastly, the projects adaptability to the needs and resources of different communities ensures
its effectiveness and relevance across various settings. Tailoring workshops to the specific
context of each school or community maximizes the impact and engagement of participants.
In conclusion, this initiative stands as a testament to the power of art to transform lives and
communities, demonstrating that creativity knows no bounds and that everyone, regardless of
their background, has the potential to create something beautiful and meaningful

Contact Info:

Image Credits

art works
taj mahal
titanic ship
eiffel tower
white house
capitol building
train
elephant
statue of liberty

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