Pooja Mhatre is a contemporary Indian visual artist whose creative journey is deeply influenced by nature, mythology, and the emotional rhythms of life. Born and raised in Pune, Maharashtra, and currently based in Raigad, her artistic practice reflects a strong connection with aquatic environments, spiritual narratives, and symbolic imagery.

From an early age, Pooja was drawn to colours, forms, and storytelling through visual expression. This natural inclination gradually evolved into a focused artistic pursuit, leading her to formal training in fine arts. Her academic foundation helped shape her technical skills while encouraging her to explore personal themes and visual language.

Pooja’s artworks are widely recognized for their dynamic compositions and fluid movement. Marine life, especially fish and underwater forms, often appears in her paintings as symbols of energy, continuity, and transformation. Alongside these elements, she frequently draws inspiration from Indian mythology, incorporating spiritual references that add depth and meaning to her work.

Working primarily with acrylic on canvas, she blends expressive brushwork with layered textures and vibrant colours. Her style reflects a balance between emotional spontaneity and thoughtful structure, allowing each artwork to communicate both visual beauty and inner reflection.

Through her paintings, Pooja seeks to create a dialogue between the natural world and human consciousness. Her art invites viewers to pause, observe, and connect with the subtle harmony that exists between imagination, spirituality, and lived experience. Continually evolving, she remains dedicated to exploring new ideas while staying rooted in her core artistic vision.

PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

G.D. Art (Painting), Abhinav Kala Mahavidyalaya, Pune, 2010
Diploma in Art Education (Dip.A.Ed), 2023

Artist Statement

My art explores the enchanting realm of the Underwater World. This fascination with the ocean's depths began in my childhood and has become the cornerstone of my artistic expression. The vibrant colors and unique shapes of conch shells and pebbles captivated me, leading me to develop a distinct style centered around this theme. My passion for the underwater world was so profound that it guided my final project during my Diploma, where I excelled with distinction on a question paper dedicated to this subject.

As my career has evolved, so has my style and color palette, but the core subject of "Underwater World" remains a constant source of inspiration. The boundless nature of this theme reflects the complexities of our own experiences and emotions, which I strive to convey through my art.

Relocating to Konkan after marriage deepened my connection with the coastlines, further enriching my artistic vision. My work now incorporates a broader array of marine elements such as fish, corals, tortoises, and turtles, alongside conch shells. Capturing the sublime beauty of nature and translating it onto canvas is both a challenging and rewarding endeavor. Through persistent practice, I have honed my skills, leading to numerous opportunities to showcase my art in prestigious venues such as the Jehangir Art Gallery and the Nehru Centre Art Gallery. Additionally, I have participated in various art shows, earning awards and receiving recognition for my work.

I am committed to maintaining this deep, joyful relationship with art, hoping that it continues to be as captivating and beautiful as the Underwater World that inspires it.

Pooja Mhatre

Visual Artist | Raigad, Maharashtra, India

Available Artworks by Pooja Mhatre