Landscape Theme Print on Canvas, "Landscape I"

"I have been a keen fan of art ever since I was young. In fact, art has been in my family for four generations — it practically runs through our blood. My father, H. K. Kejriwal, is a collector of arts. His passion for it was passed down to me.

"When it comes to art, along with the technique of the artist and the visual elements of the artwork, the story of the artist calls out to me. It the story of struggle, of joy and sadness, of ups and downs, and this is clearly reflected through artists' work. This told-but-untold story attracts me most.

"I come from the beautiful city of Bangalore where I started on my journey by learning everything from my father. From there, my teachers have been my many interactions with people, the myriad of books I've read and the experiences I've had.

"I have been privileged to meet so many talented artists, and this led to starting my art gallery. The decision to begin the gallery in 2003 was one of my most challenging ever, despite an extensive knowledge of the art world. My idea was basically to build a platform to showcase the work of upcoming contemporary artists alongside their well-established contemporaries. I wanted to open its doors to everyone with even a remote inclination towards art.

"In the beginning, many told me that — though commendable — a gallery might not be able to emerge as a self-sustainable institution. But today, it is still standing and is still holding to its foundational values. I believe that was a challenge well overcome. Like everyone, I've faced many obstacles in life that I have had to overcome.

"With some confidence, more determination and a lot of trial and error, I have come this far. There have been many moments of elation along with moments spent immersed in doubt. The entire process has been a whirlwind, with no warning as to what might come next. But, in retrospect, everything, every moment has built up to where I am now and it has been worth the chaos.

"Not long ago, we thought of reproducing the original paintings as prints to make the artwork more accessible for all art lovers. With this initiative, we are on our way to make art by, of and for the people. It also gives an opportunity to artists for their work to be shown to a larger audience and for people to be able to view and collect contemporary Indian art.