Skip to content
Search

Latest Stories

Sangeeta Weatherley: Passion to help people find an inner Picasso

Sangeeta Weatherley: Passion to help people find an inner Picasso

MANY reconnecting with art during the pandemic has turned it into a very popular pastime.

Apart from being an avenue for creative expression, the colourful hobby has also helped mental wellbeing and been a way to connect with like-minded people. West London-based artist Sangeeta Weatherley has created a space for those wanting to learn painting through hands-on individual and group classes at her studio in Chiswick.


She now balances creating eye-catching works of art with helping people reconnect with their inner Picasso and discussed her colourful classes with Eastern Eye. She also spoke about art helping with mental wellbeing.

What first connected you to art?

I am passionate about outdoors. On one of my walks in India, I came across a group of watercolourists and discovered a love for capturing nature through art.

How would you describe your work?

My work is packed with vibrant colours with an element of spontaneity and abstraction. I use watercolours and acrylics, which have quick drying times that allow me to paint more and express myself more freely. I am challenging myself constantly by experimenting with various techniques.

Is there any one piece that is closest to your heart?

Every painting is special. If I must pick one, then Crazy Little Thing Called Love is my current favourite as it’s the first artwork I painted in my studio.

What made you start art classes?

I started my art classes to help people connect with their creative side. I have a passion for working with people and can lead diverse age groups and abilities. It has been proven that art provides an array of benefits.

Tell us about the art classes?

The art classes are suitable for all ages and abilities. I provide all materials. I demonstrate and guide you through a chosen theme.

How can art and classes help people?

Art helps you relax and connect with your inner creativity. It also boosts self-esteem and confidence.

What kind of feedback have you had from those attending your classes?

Some of the feedback I’ve received is, Silvia Del Corso saying, “my daughter and I attend Sangeeta’s classes; it is something we truly enjoy. It sets the mind free, allows us to express our creativity and it is a moment of mindfulness. Thank you so much for your passion, talent, patience, and dedication.” And someone else (Robert Marshall), said, “I find Sangeeta’s art very stimulating. Regardless of the subject matter, each piece conjures up emotions and memories not just of the physical, but something deeper. No wonder, then, that her teaching reflects the same energy and zest.”

Why should more people take up art?

The average person has more than 6,000 thoughts per day and 90 per cent of them are the same, day in and day out. Creating art provides a distraction, giving your brain a break from your usual thoughts. It helps you get in a state of flow. This meditative-like state focuses your mind and temporarily pushes aside all your worries.

How has art helped you?

It has provided an outlet to express myself. I am a much happier person. It also helps me connect with a lot of amazing people. It has allowed me to evolve both as an artist and businesswoman.

What else can we expect from you?

I’m expanding my classes – Art for Wellbeing for corporates, Art Parties for all occasions and one-to-one sessions. I also exhibit regularly. Details can be found on my website www.sansart.co.uk

What inspires you as an artist?

I am inspired by nature. London is abundant with parks and waterbodies. I paint a lot of florals inspired by spring and autumn colours. I live close to the Thames and draw a lot of inspiration from the tidal variations and seasonal changes.

Why should we attend your art classes?

There might be a Picasso waiting to be discovered! My class might inspire you in many ways. Art could be a new way to journal a creative colour diary, a way to capture your day or to clear your head.

Visit Twitter: @SanThoughts and Instagram: sans.art

More For You

Manoj Malde’s Chelsea garden aims to stem HIV stigma

Manoj Malde in the Eastern Eye Garden of Unity in 2023

Manoj Malde’s Chelsea garden aims to stem HIV stigma

MANOJ MALDE, whose design for Eastern Eye’s “Garden of Unity” at Chelsea in 2023 was a triumph, has another entry this year at the world’s premier flower show.

Two years ago, there was such a buzz around Eastern Eye’s spectacular garden that it became a “must see” even for King Charles and Queen Camilla.

Keep ReadingShow less
Eastern Eye and AMG partner with The Old Vic for exclusive Oedipus performance
Old Vic Theatre

Eastern Eye and AMG partner with The Old Vic for exclusive Oedipus performance

EASTERN EYE and the Asian Media Group (AMG) partnered with the Old Vic to bring a special audience to the world-famous theatre for a performance of Oedipus, starring Oscarwinner Rami Malek and Indira Varma in the lead roles.

“The thing I’m most excited about is the number of brown faces in the room,” joked Pavita Cooper, a trustee of the Old Vic.

Keep ReadingShow less
Whitby Chocolate Festival Raises Funds for Life-Saving Defibrillators

Chocolate festival feels like a natural fit for Whitby

iStock

Whitby chocolate festival unites community to fund life-saving defibrillators

Nestled along the rugged North Yorkshire coast, Whitby is a town steeped in history, folklore, and charm. From its iconic abbey ruins to its cobbled streets and bustling harbour, Whitby has long been a magnet for visitors seeking a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Now, the town is adding a new layer to its rich tapestry: a chocolate festival set to debut this December. But this isn’t just any festival; it’s one with a heartwarming mission: to raise funds for the maintenance of life-saving defibrillators across the town.

A town with a taste for history

Whitby’s connection to chocolate might not be as well-known as its ties to Dracula or Captain Cook, but it’s a story worth telling. Chocolate has been a beloved indulgence in Britain since the 17th century, and Whitby, with its bustling port, would have been no stranger to the exotic imports of cocoa beans. Fast forward to today, and the town is home to a thriving community of artisans, bakers, and chocolatiers who continue to craft delicious treats inspired by Whitby’s unique character.

Keep ReadingShow less
‘Bad Feminism’ is the most honest kind: Why imperfect feminism is real power

The beauty of imperfection: Challenging outdated ideals.

iStock

‘Bad Feminism’ is the most honest kind: Why imperfect feminism is real power

The myth of the flawless feminist

Women are expected to be walking, talking TED Talks on feminism, unproblematic, unapologetic, yet somehow never too much. Every misstep, every contradiction, every guilty pleasure becomes proof that they’re “not feminist enough.” Like Beyoncé can’t call herself a feminist and still love a killer red lip? Like you can’t demand equal pay and secretly binge-watch reality TV? The expectation that women must embody a perfect, textbook feminism is not only exhausting, it’s also a trap.

Keep ReadingShow less
Ramadan 2025

Ramadan meets technology! Explore five interactive tools that make faith fun and engaging for the digital generation

iStock

Ramadan 2025: 5 interactive tools that make faith fun for Gen Alpha

Just imagine a glow-in-the-dark Ramadan countdown, Quran stories unfolding like animated blockbusters, and AI-powered gamified learning, all wrapped in the sacred essence of the holy month. Sounds like something out of a futuristic Ramadan playbook? Welcome to Gen Alpha’s way of embracing faith.

For kids who’ve never known a world without touchscreens, faith isn’t just something to read about; rather, it’s something to experience. Suhoor and iftar still hold their charm, but when tradition meets technology, learning about Ramadan transforms from a lesson into an adventure.

Keep ReadingShow less