Meet Sailesh Vaghela
Sailesh is sharing drawing tips and demo videos with Sktchy subscribers throughout August. Learn more
What's your background?
I’m from the UK, born in the Midlands and currently living in Guildford. I think I’ve always been into art, I remember trying to paint very young in my granddad's room, whilst the TV was on. Making random splotches on one side of paper and folding it over, to then reveal some sort of abstract butterfly.
I got more serious into my art when I bought an iPad 3 in 2012, and then the next boost was when I got the Sktchy app in 2015, and that is when I got really addicted to creating art. I just can’t stop now.
What's your medium of choice when you're creating art?
I work in digital, I use a couple of platforms for my work. My main workspace is my iMac using Photoshop CC and a Cintiq 13HD. I’ve had the Cintiq for a few years now, and it’s amazing to work on. The other thing I try to use is the large iPad Pro (white/gold✨) and Procreate. It’s very good, superb 1:1 feel. I mainly use it to plan my Sktchy pieces – like line work. I need to use it more to paint, however. Still learning.
How did you build your creative habit?
I think my current habit is built on praise. Posting on Sktchy, Instagram, Twitter, I always look forward to the likes and comments. Unfortunately these days, algorithmic changes on some platforms has affected this, so it’s turning into a downer for me. But I can’t seem to let go either. It’s a bad habit, if I’m honest. You shouldn’t rely on praise to push your skill, but that’s just a sign of the times we live in.
On the flip side, I’ve found creating art is extremely soothing for me, especially after a stressful day at work. It’s something I just need to do.
When you find yourself in a creative rut, how do you get out of it?
Exercise! I’ve been in many ruts in my life, and when you’re in one, it’s hard to think of any sort of remedy. But having a good work out does wonders. It gets rid of that wooly sensation that clogs your head. Your mind feels more precise, and you can focus. It’s definitely worth the effort. And good for you, apparently.
Which of your recent Sktchy artworks most expresses who you are now as an artist?
My portrait of Jaymes Anthony: full of colour, attitude, emotion, symbols, and depth. I want my art to mean something, even if it’s not the intended idea. I’d love to think my art could be emotive enough to make a person feel something. Especially in these times, which are so fleeting and deficient of attention.
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