Today we’d like to introduce you to Arvind Vanmali.
Hi Arvind, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I was born and in Panama, Central America .I am of Indian descent. Spent part of my child hood in Mumbai ,India where I graduated from High school . I am a self taught artist with no formal education in arts. My passion for art began early in High school. I was nominated BEST ARTIST in school back to back three years in a row and placed second in an all India freehand drawing competition. Flying back to Panama I graduated from Canal Zone College with a degree in Medical Technology followed by a masters in Clinical Microbiology and Immunology From Hahnemann Medical College in Philadelphia. After completing my post graduate courses and dissertation I pursued a career in Business assisting my family for decades in electronic shops and hotels.
Along all these years I never left my practice of making art in anticipation that this activity would be of great value in my retirement years. I have exhibited at the university of Panama, I am a member of the IAAA organization (Indian American Artists Association) based in the USA. Together with some of the members we had a group exhibition Tuscumbia ,Alabama
and a group traveling exhibit over the Southern USA. Currently I am participating in an exhibit at the Danville Art gallery in California and a n exhibit at the Alpharetta Cultural arts center.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road in my life has not been near smooth. I truly believe today that that has been a blessing. The hard times have humbled and pushed me to grow in my craft and in life as a person with stacking resilience. In 1989 as the US military
invaded Panama in the pursuit of the Dictator Manuel Noriega, the chaos in the city resulted in the total loot of our three story electronics business leaving us void of inventory and totally drowned in debt . Over the years to come we gathered the strength to rise up to what we are today, a thriving successfull loving family with conserved core values. Difficult to operate businesses in Atlanta never stopped me from conserving my hopes towards success. I understand that success is a result of
a lot of failures.
As you know, we’re big fans of Douglasville Hospitality/ Hotel. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Currently I am enjoying my retirement. I managed and operated a family hotel in Douglasville-Econolodge Inn & Suites
which formerly began as a Best Western brand Hotel. I managed and operated the hotel for 24 years. Previously I owned and operated a cheesesteak restaurant for eight years and was also a broker dealer for financial securities and insurance.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Today I focus my attention in enjoying life day by day . I discern my attention from worrying about little issues that don’t matter in my life . Most issues are petty. I practice staying away from gossip and stay in my own lane. I enjoy reading to inform myself and transform some of this information into daily practice. I challenge myself to find new ways to create original arts .
I believe that this practice brings me joy and satisfaction more than the thoughts of selling art. I do not worry much since God is always on my side ready to direct my life and the decisions I make. All I try to do is to be mindful of communicating with Him frequently. I practice aligning my will to His will.
Creating and sharing my art reinforces a sense of contribution and purpose. When I offer my works without strings, I am inviting meaning beyond personal achievement. To me creating art allows me to express my thoughts and emotions that many times can be challenging to articulate in words. Sharing it openly fosters a sense of authenticity and self-compassion. Generous sharing nurtures a mindset of gratitude. Even when praise and material gains aren’t forthcoming , I notice that small acts of kindness or recognition
feel rewarding within themselves.
Regular practice of making art builds my skills and confidence. Sharing my work publicly can invite constructive feedback
that supports my growth, while still maintaining my choice to share without demanding praise.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tezkaart.com
