Stepping into her house is akin to entering a living museum, where the walls come alive with an enchanting display of paintings. Each corner is adorned with a kaleidoscope of artistic creations that transports you to different landscapes across the globe.
Mrs Vinod Kapoor, 82, the artistic soul of the house, has poured her passion onto the canvas, capturing the essence of diverse subjects. Her artistic repertoire knows no boundaries, as she delves into myriad themes, from the ethereal beauty of devotional paintings to the profound simplicity of ordinary women. Her brush dances across the canvas, bringing to life the enchanting allure of birds and the abstract wonders of imagination. With every stroke, she weaves tales of emotions and experiences that resonate deep within the hearts of those who gaze upon her art.
Together with her husband, a professor of Civil Engineering at Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, Mrs. Kapoor born in Moradabad, has travelled the world, living in countries as diverse as the United States, Iraq, New Zealand, Malaysia, and India.
When he retired, they returned to their roots and started a new chapter in their lives together. Sadly, fate had other plans, and just months after their return, Dr Kapoor was diagnosed with a chronic illness and he passed away. Left with two children living abroad, Mrs Kapoor found strength in her art and her faith, using her hobbies to connect with the divine and find meaning and purpose in her life.
Her landscapes evoke a sense of wanderlust, inspired by the breath-taking vistas she has encountered during her travels around the world. From the mist-shrouded mountains to the serene seascapes, she paints Nature’s wonders with a reverence that stirs the viewer’s imagination and ignites a longing for exploration.
As one engages in conversation with Mrs Vinod Kapoor, her artistic fervour becomes contagious, and one can’t help but be captivated by her unwavering passion. She speaks of her paintings as if they were living beings, each carrying a piece of her heart and soul.
“Inspiration can be found in the most ordinary things, from the colours of the sky at different times of the day, to the beauty of flowers in bloom, to the grace of birds in flight”, says Mrs. Kapoor. Her house, adorned with a treasure trove of her artistic expressions, is a testimony of a life well-lived.
Art has been the driving force behind her life, empowering her to face every challenge with strength, humility, and courage. With the power of talent, she overcame societal biases and mental barriers many a time.
She has been honoured with the Neerja Bhanot Award of Excellence, as well as the Award of Excellence for being among the most prominent women artists of Punjab in 2021.
But Mrs. Kapoor’s interests extend far beyond her art. At 83, she is a woman of many interests and skills, from cooking to gardening to meditation and yoga. She is loved by people of all ages, from toddlers to the elderly, who are drawn to her warmth, hospitality, and generosity of spirit.
With a double Masters in Sanskrit and Hindi, Mrs. Kapoor has a deep appreciation for the finer things in life, from music and literature to philosophy and spirituality. She comes from a family of nine siblings, each with their own unique interests and passions, and together they embody a holistic approach to living that has guided her throughout her life.
Sharing her artistic journey with CityWoofer, Mrs Kapoor said, “Whether it’s through travel, creative pursuits, or simply connecting with others in meaningful ways, I believe that we all have the ability to find joy and purpose in our lives. It’s important to stay open-minded, to take risks, and to always keep learning and growing”.
“And above all, I believe that cultivating a deep sense of gratitude and love for oneself and others is key to leading a fulfilling and meaningful life,” she adds, with a glint in her eyes.
In the midst of her artistic sanctuary, Mrs Vinod Kapoor exudes an infectious zeal, recounting the stories behind each painting with boundless enthusiasm. Her eyes sparkle with the fervent desire to hold her own independent exhibition, where her creations can take centre stage and touch the souls of art enthusiasts.
Mrs. Kapoor’s story is a testament to the power of talent, perseverance, and faith to overcome even the most difficult challenges. Through her art and her life, she has touched the hearts of countless people around the world, and her legacy will continue to inspire others for generations to come.
(The writer, Shweta Yadav, is an independent writer and researcher, passionate about uncovering untold narratives)
