Congratulations to Ratna Sari for earning her place as a Finalist in the Boynes Artist Award 9th Edition [Emerging Artist category]!

Who are you?

Hi there! I'm Ratna, a wildlife artist from Seattle, USA. I've loved plants and animals since I was a kid, and that interest drives my art. My passion for nature has fueled my art since childhood, and drawing has been a part of my life for as long as I can recall. During school, I explored various artistic tools and techniques. In college, I embraced more advanced art classes with different materials, though I've always had a special fondness for graphite pencils. After a hiatus, I'm now a visual designer, integrating my skills to enhance my artistic abilities.

What inspired you to utilize Painting as a medium?

I adore the simplicity of pencil and paper. This approach lets me really dive into value studies, which bring lifelike qualities to my work. Using graphite gives me the ability to layer, blend, and even use an eraser strategically to create highlights. Graphite is lightweight, flexible, and portable, enabling me to create art while traveling.

How would you describe your ARTwork?

A lot of my practice goes into depicting realism at the highest standard. I strive to remove any sign that my final pieces was created by pencil strokes. Because of that, it is very important to master blending techniques as much as possible. A significant portion of my practice revolves around achieving the pinnacle of realism. I aim to erase any traces of pencil strokes in my final pieces. This drives me to master blending techniques extensively.

Can you discuss the inspiration and thought process behind your winning work?

I'm concerned by the increasing loss of endangered species over the years. The pencil drawing "Risky Disposition" showcases a peaceful white rhino resting gracefully, one leg tucked beneath its massive body. The rhino's eyes reflect wisdom and its deep bond with nature. Yet, a somber message lies within, as the title suggests the dangers from illegal poaching, causing their decline. The artwork prompts conservation awareness, highlighting the delicate balance between the rhino's serenity and the urgent need for protection. "Risky Disposition" serves as a powerful call to action, reminding us to share the responsibility of safeguarding these majestic animals.

Can you walk us through the technical steps of creating your winning work?

Creating "Risky Disposition" begins with selecting the right image as my reference. Lifelike accuracy is crucial, so I heavily rely on reference photos. I opted for an image of a resting rhino to convey a narrative. Once I've determined the final size and format, I use a grid to ensure precise detail capture. The process of drawing begins. For this artwork, I dedicated around 100 hours to finish the piece, prioritizing intricate details without any compromises.

What do you hope to communicate to an audience with your work?

We are all interconnected and integral to this world. It's crucial not to underestimate the value of nature.

Can you talk about your biggest learning experience during the process of creating your work?

I have a couple of insights to share. First, I discovered that I was being overly cautious when applying pencil to paper, which made the process slower and less enjoyable. My fear of mistakes hindered me from accurately depicting my artwork. However, I realized I could be more relaxed and even introduce patterns and textures to my subject, allowing some artistic freedom while maintaining realism. Second, I learned that the choice of paper greatly influences what you can achieve with a pencil, sometimes even more than the pencil itself. While there's no simple answer to what paper is "best," the decision hinges on the technique or texture you intend to convey.

Can you discuss your biggest success since starting your artistic journey?

Through social media, I discovered art communities and competitions. In 2023, I entered the Wildlife Artist of the Year competition hosted by David Shepherd's Wildlife Foundation with "Risky Disposition." Given the remarkable artworks showcased, I didn't anticipate becoming a finalist. Surprisingly, my artwork "Risky Disposition" was selected, and it will be exhibited at the Mall Galleries in London alongside fellow finalists in September 2023! This is my first prestigious recognition for my artwork, and I feel immensely honored. The exciting aspect is that half of the sale proceeds will contribute to conservation efforts. Creating a remarkable animal artwork that also aids endangered species is truly fulfilling.

Can you share with us the best piece of advice you you wish you had known at the start of your career?

Don't hesitate to stick with your chosen art medium instead of following trends. Keep nurturing your artistic expression without compromise.

What projects are you working on currently? Can you discuss them?

I'm currently immersed in developing intricate storytelling within my art pieces. While it's in its early stages, I don't have visuals to share yet. But you can stay updated by following my latest work on my Instagram.

Lastly, I like to ask everyone what advice they would give to their fellow artists, what is your advice?

I'd like to share two things. Firstly, discover your strengths and unique talents, and consistently work on enhancing your skills. Secondly, don't hesitate to decline opportunities that don't align with your goals. By doing so, you'll free up time to concentrate on your art and chosen projects.

To view more of Ratna Sari

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Website