Apart from being a dedicated eye specialist, Ranjit is also a skilled artist. The paintings and sculptures he creates are sold to sponsor his philanthropic activities. [break]
He has two solo art exhibitions (Sydney, 1990, and Nepal Art Council, 2004) to his credit and he is planning another one in 2013-2014.
You have your work at Nepal Eye Hospital. You’re the founding chairperson of YES, and you are also an artist. Is it easy to find time to do everything?
I don’t find it a hassle. I would like to believe that I’m a man who is well organized. I have my hands full with my duties as an ophthalmologist during the day. I have always planned in advance and taken time out for my art. Art refreshes my mind and makes me feel alive.
I don’t watch much television, and everyday the time between 8pm and midnight is solely reserved for my sculptures. I have my space at home where I sculpt and paint, and I spend a bit of my time there every morning.
How do you choose your subjects?
I follow my imagination to a great degree when it comes to my art. Nature is a predominant theme.
What do you think is the role of an artist in society?
Like everyone else, an artist has the responsibility to help people less unfortunate than himself. Through my art, I try my best to reach out to people.
Are you a disciplined artist or do you work whenever your mood for art overtakes you?
Like I explained above, I have a fixed time set apart to pursue my hobby. A painting takes me anything from five or six hours to a full day to complete. As for my sculpture, I dedicate more than six months to one piece before I’m satisfied.
What do you count as the most important influence in your art and work?
It’s my need to be of service that greatly propels me to what I do. The late Dr Venkataswamy and Professor Fred Hollowes have always inspired me with their thoughts and works.
What would you say to young people who feel they have no time to follow their dreams?
Learn something and utilize your talents to give back to the society.
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