Sarojini Datta honed her artistic skills after her husband’s demise at 50, turning her solace into opportunity.
Sarojini Datta, a visual artist from Noida, epitomizes the idea that “art washes away the dust of everyday life from the soul.” Her journey in the art world took root during her formative years, nurtured by the encouragement of her teachers at Mater Dei School in Delhi. While she initially pursued a degree in Psychology at Lady Sri Ram College—largely due to parental expectations— her passion for art remained a constant presence in her life.
After marrying an Air Force officer and devoting most of her time to the family, Sarojini sought creative outlets that allowed her to express her artistic instincts. She painted baby clothes, undertook commissioned canvas projects and designed backdrops for school productions, all the while managing her responsibilities as a wife and mother. Despite adhering to societal norms and expectations, the longing to paint and share her work remained alive within her.
A significant turning point came with the loss of her husband at the age of 50. While this event was profoundly heartbreaking, it paradoxically opened a gateway for Sarojini to re-engage with her artistic passions. With reinforced determination, she began to immerse herself in the world of art. She invested in supplies, studied various techniques and embarked on travels to over 42 countries, where she created artworks inspired by her experiences in each new locale.
Her artistic style predominantly embodies realism, employing a range of mediums including acrylics, pastels and her current favourite, water colours.
Sarojini’s vibrant colour palette is intentionally designed to uplift the spirits of viewers while evoking feelings of nostalgia, inviting them to experience her journey. A practitioner of Nichiren Buddhism, Sarojini draws considerable strength from her spiritual beliefs, which highlight the innate goodness within every individual.
This framework supports her creative endeavours and helps to maintain resilience in the face of life’s challenges. In 2020, after waiting for 44 years, Sarojini realized her dream of holding a solo exhibition, an accomplishment that was bolstered by the encouragement of family and friends. Over the past 15 years, she has participated in more than 30 group exhibitions, gaining recognition for her work, including an honourable mention in a competition hosted by the Hindi daily, Dainik Bhaskar. At 69, Sarojini’s life is fuelled by an unquenchable curiosity and maintaining a desire for continuous growth. She firmly believes that each day presents new opportunities for discovery, allowing her to constantly evolve as an artist. Her creative output remains a testament to her resilience, and passion for life, echoing her sentiment that she has “miles to go before I sleep.” As Sarojini reflects on her artistic path, she recognizes the significant impact that both joy and hardship have had in shaping her work. Every brushstroke is infused with the experiences and emotions she has encountered throughout her life. Her journey reflects a tapestry of triumphs, trials, and an unwavering commitment to her art. In a world where many may overlook the therapeutic nature of creativity, Sarojini exemplifies the transformative power of art to inspire both the creator and the observer.
Through her works, she invites audiences not just to view her art, but to connect with their own life stories, reminding them of the beauty that can emerge from adversity. As she continues to explore and express herself through her art, Sarojini Datta remains a beacon of inspiration, demonstrating that it is never too late to pursue one’s passions and share them with the world. Her journey is a vivid reminder that art is a profound force for healing and connection, providing solace and joy in an often tumultuous world.
