Born in Mumbai, India, surrounded by artists and musicians, Neelam quickly discovered her creative spirit and developed a keen interest in various forms of art. After earning a BFA in Graphic Design from the University of Mumbai, Neelam emigrated to the United States in 1984. While raising her family she studied computer graphics. She worked for 2 years as a computer graphics designer, and then trained in web design as well as computer programming.

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While working as a programmer for a large telecommunications company, she quenched her artistic thirst by painting on glass, wood, fabrics, and canvas. After being laid off during the economic downturn of 2001, she became a full-time floorcloth (hand-painted canvas rug) artist. The patterns of her floorcloths are inspired by Colonial American wall and floor designs. She also creates one-of-a-kind pieces as per supplied designs. She has been recognized by Early American Life magazine as a top floorcloth artist for historical accuracy and museum-quality workmanship. Her pieces are displayed in several museums, period homes as well as private collections. So far she has created over 19,000 sq. ft. of floorcloths.

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After 14 years as a full-time floorcloth artist, Neelam found the creative process to be pleasing yet repetitive. In pursuit of the next stage in her art career, she discovered the freedoms of abstraction by studying the works of Henri Matisse, Mark Rothko, Frank Stella, Helen Frankenthaler, V. S. Gaitonde, and S. H. Raza.

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Neelam’s initial abstract works were geometric paintings, which did not come spontaneously. Starting with pencil sketches, she used her computer skills to create multiple digital representations before painting on canvas. This methodical process came naturally because of her graphic design training, but she continued to perceive a void in her creative mind. However, an unplanned immersion into spirituality released her from her comfort zone and gave her the courage to express herself freely. The subjects and colors of her landscape paintings are influenced by the pairing of nature’s inspirations reflected in her mood and impulses. Neelam crafts her landscapes with acrylics, oil sticks, graphite, and charcoal by using brushes and knives. By working with these mixed media in a meditative state, she shares her inner spirit with the viewers.

 

Artist Statement

I express my emotions, illusions, and thoughts through my paintings. My landscape paintings reflect the overall essence of nature that I see or imagine. Using a limited palette I keep compositions simple and my focus is on balancing colors, values, and texture.