Making Art That Grows a Career!

Omkar Patil didn't go viral overnight - he built his creative career through quiet consistency, self-initiated projects, and a genuine love for sketching everyday life. From trains and platforms to digital canvases and national contests, his journey is a master class in how Gen Z creatives can turn raw passion into a thriving, purpose-led profession.
New year’s Illustration for Mahindra Tractors.
New year’s Illustration for Mahindra Tractors.
3 min read
Q

Let’s time travel for a second—if we scrolled back to your earliest sketches or designs, what would we see? How has your artistic journey evolved from those first strokes to where you are today?

A

I’ve always enjoyed drawing and painting. Back in college, I used to do plein air paintings almost every day and sketched people wherever I went - on trains, at stations, everywhere. You will find my sketchbooks filled with quick studies of life around me. When I started working in the industry and exploring different styles and digital media, I realised how valuable my years of sketching and painting had been. All those hours of observing and capturing life on paper had built a strong foundation, making the transition to digital much smoother. Looking back, I truly believe that strong academic fundamentals shape and support everything you do next.

Entry for Royal Enfield #Artofmotorcycling season 3
Entry for Royal Enfield #Artofmotorcycling season 3
Q

Your work has a distinct style that instantly grabs attention. But before the world recognised it, there must have been a journey of trial, error, and discovery. What was the turning point where you felt, ‘Yes, I’ve found my voice as an artist’?

A

Oh, you think so? I wouldn’t say I’ve reached that point yet where I can confidently say, “Yes, I’ve found my voice.” I’m still experimenting and exploring, and I believe that’s an ongoing process. It’s not something you sit down and decide. And don’t think you should! Keep creating what you enjoy, it evolves naturally. One day, without even realising it, you’ll look back and see that you’ve already found it.

Back to sketching people at the station—just like college days! Funny how some things stay the same…except now, even the shoe polish guy takes QR payments. #DigitalIndia
Back to sketching people at the station—just like college days! Funny how some things stay the same…except now, even the shoe polish guy takes QR payments. #DigitalIndia
Q

Many young creatives start with passion but struggle with consistency. How did you stay motivated to create regularly?

A

I believe that consistency is more important than anything else. I once read a quote that said, “Consistency beats talent, luck, and chance,” and I truly believe it. For me, it’s all about having a strong mindset and a clear goal. If you truly want something, your willpower will drive you to keep going, even when motivation fades. Ultimately, it comes down to how badly you want it and how committed you are to making it happen.

A heartfelt tribute to village life. Where every visit brings back the warmth, simplicity, and nostalgia of artist's roots.
A heartfelt tribute to village life. Where every visit brings back the warmth, simplicity, and nostalgia of artist's roots.
Q

Social media can make or break an artist’s career today. How did you use Instagram to build recognition?

A

Social media is a powerful tool, especially when you’re starting. Almost everyone is on social media today, making it a great way to connect with people in the industry. If you’re consistently present and sharing your work, the right people will discover you. And if your work aligns with their vision, you’ll get opportunities that genuinely interest you. For me, staying consistent wasn’t about becoming popular or gaining followers; that’s just a byproduct of doing good work. The real goal was to put my work out there and attract meaningful collaborations.

Read the full article & much more in the Print Edition of Issue 67
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