We’re looking forward to introducing you to Durga Ekambaram. Check out our conversation below.
Durga, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What are you chasing, and what would happen if you stopped?
I am currently chasing something I have always pursued — a better version of myself. A better version of who I can be in my work and in pursuing my passions for art and writing. Ever since I discovered my love for art, I have taken a path that pushed me out of my comfort zone, and that journey gave me the confidence to venture into arenas I never imagined stepping into. I believe that if I had stopped at just being an artist, I might never have explored writing. At present, even though I am not pursuing or chasing a specific goal, my intention to do better and explore new things will surely lead me to something I have never done before.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am a professional mixed media artist and a published author. I love teaching the mediums I work with, as most of my art is rooted in Indian folk art forms, which have generated significant interest within the communities I engage with through my work. Over the years, I have showcased my work in several galleries, created murals, and collaborated with various nonprofit organizations through my art.
As an author, I have four published books on Amazon. I write Regency-era novels inspired by Pride and Prejudice, and I hope to write a modern variation one day as well.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a child, I always believed in luck. I thought that I could do everything right and still not be lucky enough to receive what I deserved, and I held on to that belief for many years. However, I now understand that any honest effort, when paired with passion and dedication, will always pay off; provided we do not give up at the slightest inconvenience or allow failures to weigh us down.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could look back at my childhood and say something to my younger self, something that may have truly helped me, it would be this: “Do not be a people pleaser.” Over the years, I realized that far too often, I tried to do things or become someone I truly was not. Many of my decisions were driven by an innate need to please the people around me. If I could speak to that younger version of myself now, I would tell her not to worry about seeking validation or approval from others, and instead focus on staying true to who she really is.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
A yes and a no. I can be an absolute extrovert, fully engaging an audience while teaching a class or performing at an event. On the other hand, I can spend hours completely absorbed in my plots during my writing process, ignoring the world around me. As a creative, I understand the importance of marketing myself and my work, and over the years I have become more comfortable with being a performer. Yet, the real me always craves solitude.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What will you regret not doing?
Something I would always regret is “not trying.” My entire career as an artist began because I dared to try something new, when I tried my hand at chalk art many years ago, and that single choice set off a journey that led to years of recognition as an artist, exploration of different mediums, gallery exhibitions, teaching, and performing at numerous events. Had I not tried then, I would not be who I am today. Likewise, had I not tried writing a novel as an amateur, I would not be a published author now. No matter how challenging, uncertain, or uncomfortable an opportunity may seem, I know I would regret it far more if I didn’t give it a try.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.amazon.com/author/durgaek
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/strokes_durga
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562212178045
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@durga-artist-author
- Other: https://durgaekambaram.wordpress.com
