Calling my self an Artist was always intimidating to myself. Since I didn’t go to art school like so many artist I encountered did..I had always felt that there certain amount of legitimacy was missing. I wanted some kind of external validation to say that I truly did have a place in the art community.

Last October Blue Door Gallery asked its members to apply for a 2 months residency at David Rockefeller Creative Art Centre, Terry town. I looked up the Centre and I found the entire set up to be quite amazing. So I applied and was super excited to be accepted. My residency period was from 2nd January to 29th February, 2024.

Then as mid December drew closer, I found myself getting more and more nervous. I had no idea what to expect. And before I could realize, I was at the center at 9.30 AM on 2nd January. And within 20 minutes of my arrival, I met wonderful Elly Weisenberg Kelly, Manager of Public Programs and Residencies for Pocantico Centre. And she made me feel immediately at home. Soon she arranged a lunch with her wonderful team…..what a beautiful afternoon I had with all of them.

Time flew by and it was 10th February and I had a open studio and what a big turned out we had.. Amazing experience… with amazing audiences! And I felt completely validated with the positive feedback back of viewers .

Thankfully it ended up being a lovely experience and I learned a lot.. not only about Painting but also about myself.