Introduction
Sunita Lamba’s artistic journey began with a striking moment of inspiration. As a child, she was captivated by a painting by Shoba Singh, a renowned artist from Kangra, Himachal Pradesh. That painting, vividly etched in her memory, sparked her lifelong passion for art. She recalls, “I was maybe 5 or 7 years old, and that painting is still in front of my eyes.” This experience was the turning point that led her into the world of painting and, eventually, sculpting.
A Life Steeped in Art and Creativity
Sunita’s early interest in art was nurtured by her father, growing up surrounded by casting and designing processes in their family factory, Sunita was drawn to 3D forms. This exposure laid the foundation for her deep connection with sculpture. While working as a graphic designer and creative director for a multinational company for 28 years, Sunita pursued her passion for 3D art on the side, exploring sculpture with unbridled enthusiasm. “3D was always my passion, and it’s something that has stayed with me since my father’s work,” she explains.
Sculpting Her Path
Sunita’s love for sculpture became a lifelong pursuit. “From that day till today, I have been regularly working in sculpture, and it’s my passion. I’ll be working as a sculptor until the end of my life,” she says with conviction. Even though her career led her to graphic design, her heart remained in the 3D realm. She adds, “I recently started painting again, but sculpture will always be my first choice.”
Her unique approach to sculpture blends various materials, such as steel, and her work has often focused on social causes and day-to-day life emotions. Whether working on sculptures inspired by tree trunks or experimenting with semi-realistic forms, Sunita strives for a rhythmic flow in her work, often incorporating music into her creative process.
Breaking Boundaries and Innovating
In 1997, Sunita became a pioneer in digital art when she conducted groundbreaking research on transferring digital paintings onto glass. She was among the first artists to experiment with this technique, producing works on 5mm glass. Her innovative spirit has been a constant in her career, and she continues to explore new methods and materials in both painting and sculpture.
Recognition and Legacy
Sunita’s work has been recognized internationally. In 2008, her art was selected for the Beijing Olympic Fine Arts exhibition, where she won a gold medal—an honor that remains one of her most cherished achievements. Closer to home, she has served as a jury member for the 26th January Tableau for the defense, a prestigious role that underscores her reputation in the Indian art community.
Over her 40-year career, Sunita has maintained a distinct artistic voice, ensuring her work is easily recognizable. “I wanted my work to be identified from a distance,” she says. Whether in her sculptural pieces or paintings, Sunita’s creations are imbued with grace and emotion, qualities that resonate deeply with viewers. Her dedication to the craft is unwavering, and as she notes, “While working, I enjoy my work more than anyone else.”
