Commander in Navy Satyajit Roy 

A journey from tough navy duty to paint brush

Describe your artistic journey from concept to compilation?

My artistic journey is deeply intertwined with my two decades of service in the Indian Navy. The sea, the ships, and the disciplined life of a serviceman are my core inspirations. My process begins with an idea—often a memory from my naval days. I'll sketch out the composition, focusing on the story I want to tell, whether it's the might of a warship or the simple beauty of a sunrise over the ocean. I then move to the canvas, typically working in oil or acrylic. I build the painting in layers, paying meticulous attention to detail to ensure authenticity. The final compilation is a piece that isn't just visually accurate but also evokes the emotions of that moment—the tension of a mission, the calm of a quiet sea, or the pride of our naval heritage.

  Describe your first painting, what was your age then, and what was the theme of that       painting?

My first true painting was created when I was about 15 years old. It was a seascape of a lone ship sailing under a stormy sky. I was fascinated by the power of the sea and the resilience of a vessel against it. I didn't have formal training, so I relied on my imagination and what I had seen in books and photographs. Looking back, it was a simple piece, but it was the start of a lifelong passion for capturing the dynamic relationship between man and the elements.

  What is your favorite subject to paint?

My favorite subject to paint is undoubtedly the Indian Navy and maritime history. It's a subject I know intimately, and it allows me to combine my passion for art with my respect for the service. I find endless inspiration in the sleek lines of a modern frigate, the powerful thrust of an aircraft, or the quiet courage of the men and women at sea. I want my art to be a tribute to their dedication and to preserve these stories for future generations.

 What is the story or emotions behind the "Tiger Tiger Burning Bright" series of your      paintings?. 

The "Tiger Tiger Burning Bright" series is an emotional tribute to the Sea Hawks of the Indian Naval Air Squadron 300, the "White Tigers." These paintings are a way for me to celebrate a pivotal chapter in our naval aviation history. The series is about more than just aircraft; it's about the feeling of being in the cockpit, the tension before a sortie, and the sheer power and grace of these machines. The title itself is a nod to William Blake's famous poem, reflecting the fierce, powerful, and almost mythical presence of these fighter jets in the sky.

  What was the most challenging piece of art project you have created?

The most challenging project was creating the entire art collection for the Capt. M.N. Mulla Naval Auditorium in Mumbai. It wasn't just about a single painting but a holistic art concept. I had to create multiple large-scale canvases that would work together to tell a cohesive story. This involved extensive research, precise planning, and meticulous execution. I had to consider not only the individual pieces but also how they would interact within a public space and serve as a source of pride and inspiration for the officers and personnel.

  What advice would you like to give to aspiring artists?

My advice to aspiring artists is to find your unique voice and tell your own story. Don't be afraid to break from conventional methods. I am a self-taught artist, and my passion for painting came directly from my life experiences. The most compelling art is always authentic. So, find a subject you know and love, practice relentlessly, and let your work be a true reflection of your unique perspective. The world has enough copies; what it needs is your original vision.