IN CONVERSATION - Pradeep Kumar

Pradeep Kumar’s father very kindly asked him these questions for part five of my ‘In Conversation’ series. Pradeep answered in Hindu, with his father translating for me to share. India where Pradeep is living is still very much in lockdown, but he seems content to be at home being creative. Read on for more…

Do you think your artwork has changed because of the virus and what have you been doing to keep yourself busy?                        
I have not changed my artwork and my routine is the same.

Have you learnt any new skills during lockdown?   
No, I have not learnt anything new during lockdown.

Is there anything that you are currently missing doing that you are not able to do because of lockdown?   
No, I am not missing anything during lockdown because I have an ample time to spare.  

How does it feel when your work is exhibited and you see photographs of it or see it yourself in person?
I am thrilled with joy and find myself unique in the artworld when I see that my artwork is exhibited in so many art galleries and museums.

Can you tell us about the people and birds that we see featured in your works? Do you make these up or look at pictures?   
I have carved people and birds from matchsticks and toothpicks with my own imagination.

Individually carved matchsticks from Pradeep