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N.K. Soni

"Hi, my name is Narendra Kumar Soni and I was born on September 29, 1970 in Rajasthan. I started painting when I was all of 15 years old. I have learned this beautiful art of painting from my Guru, Mohan Lal Soni, who is also a cousin-brother. There really aren't any other family members involved in this profession, except for my grandfather who was once an artist. I think I have inherited his talent or I may have been influenced by him up to some extent.

"I was mostly brought up in the amazing city of Jaipur. It is here that I started my workshop. I am basically into Mughal and Rajasthani miniature paintings on paper, silk, cotton, marble or on walls.

"I now need to have three people assisting me in my work and helping me in realizing my dreams. And with everyone's help, I have been honored with the State Award for Excellence in Painting in 1994. This has inspired me to work even more and better.

"My paintings have been exhibited thrice in Dubai Shopping Festival in 1998, 1999 and 2002. And during my exhibitions in Dubai, a lot of customers from around the world liked and appreciated my work - people from France, Australia and USA purchased my work. It has all together been a lovely experience.

"To paint one needs to concentrate a lot, and I always keep a clear mind every time I paint. My designs are basically of my own inspiration, but I am influenced by ancient paintings."

Soni has found an admirable challenge in his artistic career. He has been commissioned to paint 50-foot wall hangings to adorn several five-star hotels, which he began in 1999 and completed in 2002.

Miniature paintings are one of India's unique and legendary art forms, characterized by their beauty and finesse. Though originally small in size, the term applies to a style of painting that is rich in detail that is meticulously executed with delicate brushwork. Colors were once obtained from minerals, vegetables, precious stones, conch shells, silver and gold.