Graphite narrative digitally awakened! A lot can change in a few months. 🔄 When I first finished this hyper-realistic graphite piece “The Keeper of Wisdom” for my “My India” series in the first half of 2025, it felt complete. But as I’ve recently embraced new digital tools, I’ve found a way to give more dimension to the art that lives on my paper. I’m not calling this new version “the art”, the art is the hours of graphite and sweat. But these tools have allowed me to interpret the grayscale into color and movement, transforming a static narrative into a living experience. Seeing the “Keeper of Wisdom” breathe and look back at us brings a perspective I couldn’t have imagined when I first sharpened my pencils. ✍️✨ I am not sure whether traditional art is being replaced as many fear; maybe sane art but new experiences! #MyIndiaSeries #graphitenarratives #ArtEvolution #traditionaltodigital #keeperofwisdom

Title: Blowing Wishes Sometimes a photograph finds you and brings a memory rushing back. When I saw the reference for this piece, I was immediately taken back to a quiet sunset spent with my daughter. There’s a specific kind of magic in watching a child find total wonder in something as simple as a soap bubble. In this graphite study, I wanted to capture that stillness. I added a bit more drama to the hand and the light catching the bubbles to emphasize that “frozen in time” feeling. This piece was a reminder for me to slow down and find beauty in the everyday. #artistsofinstagram #hyperrealisticart #graphiteart #blackandwhite #pencilartwork

Title: Beyond the Veil 👁️✨ Medium: Graphite Pencil on Paper Reference: Inspired by the photography of @vignesh_snaper This piece has been a long journey for me. It is more than just a study in hyper-realism; it is a tribute to my roots. The drawing depicts a transgender individual adorned as Lord Shiva during Mayanakollai, a festival celebrated in my home state of Tamil Nadu, India. This image resonated with me on so many levels: • Cultural Identity: Hailing from Tamil Nadu, the imagery of Shiva and our local festivals is deeply personal. • Representation: It highlights a beautiful moment of religious participation by the transgender community, who are often marginalized. • The Human “Mask”: It reflects the various masks we all wear to navigate society. A special thank you to @vignesh_snaper for giving me permission to recreate his stunning shot and for providing a high-def reference that allowed me to push the boundaries of my graphite work.

Work In Progress - 10 hours of creative journey condensed into 60 seconds ✨ Revealing my latest piece from the ‘My India’ series: ‘Beyond the Veil’ 🇮🇳 Thanks to @vignesh_snaper for the inspirational reference photo #myindiaseries #beyondtheveil #ArtProcess #TimelapseArt #IndianArt #ArtistsOfInstagram #creativeprocess #artjourney

‘Keeper of Wisdom’ finding its place in various sanctuaries of modern life - from home offices to workout spaces. Where would you display this contemplative piece? The contrast of ancient wisdom against contemporary settings reminds us that moments of reflection belong everywhere in our daily routines. #sfart #sfartist #artgallerysf #sanfranciscoart #bayareaart #bayareaartist #artinsf #graphitedrawing #graphiteart #pencilportrait #pencilart #contemporaryart #artcollector #moderninterior #artanddesign #workspaceinspiration

‘The Keeper of Wisdom’ - Completed Some souls carry centuries in their gaze. First piece from ‘My India’ series. . . . #hyperrealism #artspansf #realism #sfopenstudios #bayareaartist #indianartist #modernart #pencildrawing

@dav_pilkey is here in San Jose, promoting BiG JiM begins #dogman #comicbooks

✨ What does wisdom look like? ✨ This artwork, “Keeper of Wisdom,” captures the serene gaze of a Hindu Sadhu — a timeless symbol of spirituality and simplicity. Does this evoke a sense of connection to our roots? Let me know your thoughts below! 🙏 #IndianHeritage #ArtForSoul #ContemporaryIndianArt #DrawingDaily #IndianDiaspora #ArtThatSpeaks #SpiritualJourney #GlobalArtScene #realismart #indiansworldwide

✨ Final Touches to Keeper of Wisdom ✨ Creating this hyper-realistic drawing of a serene Hindu Sadhu has been a journey filled with inspiration and reverence. Each stroke of the pencil was guided by the intent to capture not just the form but the essence of wisdom and spirituality. Sometimes, it’s the details that breathe life into art — the wrinkles etched by time, the calm gaze, or the quiet power of simplicity. What emotions does this artwork evoke for you? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments. 🙏 #MyIndiaSeries #hyperrealisticart #timelapseart #sadhuwisdom #spiritualindia #artofindia #realisticdrawing #pencilartjourney #pencildrawing #pencilart #artistsofinstagram #contemporaryart

✨ Introducing “Keeper of Wisdom” ✨ This hyper-realistic pencil drawing captures the serene presence of a Hindu Sadhu — a figure believed to have renounced worldly pleasures in pursuit of spiritual liberation (moksha). Their simple attire, dhotis, sacred powders, and head coverings are an art form in themselves, reflecting India’s timeless beauty and spirituality. This artwork is meant to stir emotions and help every Indian and Indian-origin viewer reconnect with our roots — a reminder of the wisdom that continues to guide us through generations. What does wisdom mean to you? What emotion does this artwork evoke? Share your thoughts in the comments. 🙏 #myindiaseries #hyperrealisticart #spiritualindia #SadhuWisdom #artofindia #culturalroots #indiantradition #realisticdrawing #diasporaart #pencilartistry #contemporaryart #pencilartwork

Pencil Crafts By Arvind