Pre-teen prodigies

Two prodigies — (one of who is only 22 months), are showcasing their artwork in Bengaluru proving that artistic talent is indeed inborn. Virat and Pranav are two exceptional artists who started painting even before they could walk!

The 22-month-old Bengaluru prodigy, Virat Karan has always been inclined to art, according to his mother, Divya Rajashekhar, who is also an artist. “Virat started painting when he was around six months. We saw him painting the balcony walls with his hands” says Divya about her son who’s paintings have been displayed alongside the works of legends like M.F Hussain and Ram Kumar.

Virat’s parents say that he started to identify colours and shapes as early as 10 months! But they ensure that he also listens to music and plays games. “In the beginning we wondered if we were forcing him but later realised that children can’t be forced to do something they don’t like. They retaliate and it shows in their work. But Virat is so interested that he has started to use different materials to make sure the painting has a particular texture. He uses household items like combs, seeds, forks and has just begun using the sponge to create different textures for different paintings” says the proud mother.  

While Virat prefers acrylic colours for their bright shades, Pranav Senthil Kumaran likes using water colours. “It is difficult to balance the colours and water equally but I like them the best and have been using them ever since I started to paint at,” says the 13-year-old who is studying in Chennai. “At the age of one, I started painting spiders and other creatures I saw on walls but now mostly do abstract art,” says the prodigy who has won a number of district and state level awards for his artwork. “I want to become an architect when I grow up because I love drawing and designing buildings,” says Pranav. But how does he manage with school, homework and other passions? “I don’t paint much on weekdays because I’m at school till 5 pm and then go for badminton classes. But I manage to paint on weekends when I’m a little more free. My family has always been supportive and let me pursue my hobbies. My friends at school are also very proud of me and encourage me to participate in more shows, ” concludes Pranav happily.