This month’s art exhibit in the Livingston Public Library’s display case takes you on a journey into various art forms and styles from India through the creations of local artist Sharkara Jain.

Sharkara finds her primary inspiration in ancient Indian art forms such as Pichwai, Madhubani, Miniature, and Kalamkari. Each of these styles has profoundly influenced her creative process. She draws much of her patterns from Indian textiles and ancient Indian architecture.

Sharkara tries to create items which are functional and can be part of the household while being beautiful. Apart from some Madhubani and Kalamkari canvases, on display here are some hand painted vintage style boxes, facial tissue holders, and some faux books which can hold things while being a decor on the center table in the living room.

Sharkara’s journey as an artist began in her school years when she first discovered her passion for the rich and diverse art traditions of India. Growing up in India and traveling across the country, she was drawn to the intricate details and profound symbolism of ancient Indian art forms. Sharkara learned much from her grandmother, who was formally trained in Madhubani art at the Upendra Maharathi Shilp Anushadhan Sansthan and was also a trained oil painter. Her grandparents were instrumental in introducing her to various other art forms of India.

She also repurposes old wooden boxes, trays, trunks and things which we all get attached to and keep for memory’s sake, but can’t display because they don’t look so appealing. She paints them and restores their beauty, so they can once be proudly displayed in the home, reminding you of those happy times.

Since her high school days, Sharkara has exhibited her works in numerous art exhibitions across India.  Her pursuit of art was halted for a few years due to personal and professional commitments, but she recently started painting regularly again, which she describes as her pursuit of happiness.

You can learn more about her work or get in touch with her by emailing her at sharkarajain@gmail.com.

The exhibit can be viewed during library hours in the month of August.