Cut to perfection

Ritika Zharotia has creative juices running through her veins but it took her years to channelise that into something tangible.

Now, the artist and crafter can’t wait to get her hands and thoughts messy with colourful paints, thematic layouts, abstract imprints and sharp cuts.

Although she started nine years back with paints and sketches, she has since moved on to neatly carved decorative pieces that won’t fail to brighten up the house.

Book ends, wall hangings, coasters, lamps and more; she intricately designs and coats them with pride and satisfaction.

“I started painting nine years back although I come from an artistic family. I dabbled in many fields before I found my passion for crafting. I can’t believe it’s taken me this long but I’m glad I found it!” she says.

Influenced by her father, who was also a painter, she decided to make the switch from 2D to 3D because, “In 2013, I got thinking about the work I do. I realised that not everyone has an eye for art, especially abstract paintings. So I thought I’d do something that gives me a wider reach, something that people can relate to better. That’s when I decided to try making interior decor items.”

The first step was making lamps, which were elegant and monochrome. A style that she sticks to in all her works, she doesn’t look to clutter the space around her. Simple yet intricate cuts and pastel shades make her work. “I did six to eight months of research before I finalised on something.”

When she got a good response from her friends and family, she decided to take the next step forward.

“A friend introduced me to the Bangalore Craft Lovers group on Facebook and they have helped me a lot. It is one of the most positive groups on the site and people are always ready to help you out. This gave me the push I needed.”

Ritika finds the environment born from creative juices more relaxing than anything else. “I also have a very conducive environment at home. And I’m a one-woman show so I don’t have a workshop or studio. I do everything myself, step by step,” she adds.

Her first order was by someone who didn’t know her or her work very well but chose to take a chance.

“I decided to make something unique and the end result was good.” And every time she creates something new, a sense of excitement hits her.

“With every item I make, I get the same feeling I got when I completed my first one! I’m never going to look back now,” she says.

The decorative pieces either have a wooden, metallic or acrylic base. “I come up with an initial sketch, which is then computerised and given a three-dimensional look. After this, the base it laser-cut accordingly. The process is multi-layered and I am there for each step.”