Today we’d like to introduce you to Rupali Swain.
Hi Rupali, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey as an artist started in a very simple way. When my son was little, we would paint together as a fun craft activity. At the time, I never imagined it would become such an important part of my life. As he grew, I continued exploring different mediums on my own, experimenting with acrylics, watercolors, textures, and mixed media simply because I enjoyed the creative process.
As I shared more of my work with friends and family, they started encouraging me. They loved my paintings and began asking if they could buy them or commission custom pieces. That support gave me the confidence to take my art more seriously.
What began as a hobby slowly grew into a business. I taught myself not only new painting techniques but also everything that comes with being an artist—from creating collections and photographing my work to selling online and sharing my journey on social media.
Today, I create original artwork that brings warmth, texture, and a sense of calm into people’s homes. I still love experimenting and pushing my creativity, and I feel incredibly grateful that something which started as quality time with my son has grown into a career I truly love.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but I think those challenges are what have shaped me the most.
One of the biggest challenges has been wearing so many hats. As an independent artist, I’m not just creating paintings. I’m also the photographer, videographer, social media manager, marketer, customer service representative, accountant, and shipping department. Being a one-woman business means there’s always something to do beyond actually making art.
Another challenge has been learning that creating beautiful work is only half the job—you also have to help people discover it. Social media has become an important part of running a creative business, but the constantly changing algorithms can make it feel like you’re spending as much time creating content as creating art. I’ve learned that while marketing and sharing my story are essential, I can’t let them take away the joy of the creative process. At the end of the day, the artwork has to come first.
When I was teaching art, another challenge was helping parents understand that creativity can’t always be measured in a one-hour class. Art isn’t just about finishing a project; it’s about experimenting, making mistakes, building confidence, and enjoying the process. Every child develops creatively at a different pace.
Over time, I’ve also learned not to measure success by likes, views, or whether every painting sells immediately. Success, to me, is continuing to create work I’m proud of, connecting with people through my art, and constantly growing as both an artist and a business owner.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I specialize in mixed-media textured art, landscapes, watercolor paintings, Gond folk art, cityscape illustrations, ultrasound baby portraits, unique hand-painted Christmas ornaments, and small artistic gift pieces. I enjoy working across different mediums because each one allows me to tell a story in a different way.
One thing I’m known for is using unconventional tools and everyday materials in my artwork. I love looking at ordinary objects and imagining how they can create extraordinary textures. I’ve incorporated everything from sand, coffee grounds, caulk, clay, and tree bark to recycled materials into my work. I enjoy experimenting because it keeps the creative process exciting and reminds me that inspiration can come from almost anything.
What I’m most proud of is knowing that my artwork has found homes across different states, countries, and even continents. It’s incredibly humbling to think that something I created in my studio becomes part of someone’s home and story, no matter where they are in the world.
I also take pride in never limiting myself to one style. I love exploring new techniques, materials, and ideas because I believe growth is an important part of being an artist. At the same time, I try to make thoughtful choices whenever I can, including reusing and recycling shipping materials to reduce waste and be a little kinder to the planet.
I think what sets me apart is my willingness to experiment. I don’t see limitations in materials—I see possibilities. Whether it’s transforming everyday objects into artistic tools, blending traditional and contemporary techniques, or constantly challenging myself to create something new, curiosity is at the heart of everything I make. I want every piece to feel unique, handcrafted, and created with intention.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
There are many ways people can connect and work with me. They can commission a custom piece, whether it’s a painting, a meaningful keepsake like an ultrasound baby portrait, or a unique artwork created specifically for their space. I also love collaborating with brands, businesses, interior designers, and fellow creatives who appreciate handmade, thoughtful, and story-driven art.
I enjoy sharing my creative process as well, so workshops and art experiences are another way people can be part of my journey. I believe art is not just about the final piece—it’s also about the joy of creating, experimenting, and discovering your own creativity.
One of my goals is to make original art feel more accessible and affordable. I want people to know that owning original artwork doesn’t have to feel out of reach. That’s why I create pieces in a variety of sizes and price points, so more people can enjoy handmade art in their homes or give it as meaningful gifts.
For those who want to support my work, simply following my journey, sharing my artwork with others, and helping my art reach new audiences means just as much as purchasing a piece. Every time someone welcomes one of my creations into their home, it reminds me that art has the ability to connect people across different places and experiences.
My goal is to continue creating meaningful, unique pieces while building a community of people who appreciate creativity, craftsmanship, sustainability, and the story behind each artwork.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://studioabsoluthues.etsy.com/
- Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/studioAbsolutHues
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StudioAbsolutHues
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@studioabsoluthues?si=zmQKoX6_Hc1fp3cV
