Rediscovering Passion: Artist Sangeetha Gopalakrishnan’s Journey from Engineering to Oil Painting
Every artist has a unique story that feeds into their creative expression, and Sangeetha Gopalakrishnan is a standout example. After nearly two decades as a chip design electrical engineer, Gopalakrishnan decided to unleash her artistic side, allowing her engineering creativity to blend harmoniously with her newfound passion for oil painting. She firmly believes that problem-solving—the core of engineering—parallels the artistic process, showcasing the intricate connection between the two fields.
Gopalakrishnan’s journey began in India, where her love for math and problem-solving fueled her ambitions. Upon moving to the United States in 2007, she focused on engineering, yet the vibrant landscapes of South India deeply influenced her artistic sensibilities. Her upbringing fostered a free-spirited approach toward creating, serving as a catalyst for her later work in art. Now based in Irvine, California, she channels her love for both math and nature into her artwork, exemplifying how diverse experiences can converge to spark creativity.
During the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, Gopalakrishnan experienced a calling that led her to pursue art more seriously. Having always enjoyed hiking and exploring the great outdoors, she founded the OC Women’s Outdoors and Wilderness Group to empower women to embrace nature confidently. This endeavor ignited her passion for landscape painting, leading her to immerse herself in the breathtaking Californian scenery that she cherished. By 2022, she found herself painting every day, and soon after, she made the pivotal decision to leave her engineering career behind in favor of her artistic pursuits.
As a true outdoor enthusiast, Gopalakrishnan often packs her painting supplies alongside her hiking gear, prepared to capture the perfect sunset or striking natural formations whenever inspiration strikes. Her artwork is deeply rooted in the Californian landscapes she knows well, yet her portfolio spans a wide range of American scenery—from coastal cliffs to serene alpine lakes and majestic desert canyons. The Sierra Nevada mountains, where she frequently backpacks, hold a special place in her heart, offering a wealth of painting inspiration year-round.
Gopalakrishnan’s commitment to the environment extends beyond merely depicting nature; she adopts eco-friendly practices in her art-making process as well. Unlike most oil painters who typically use harsh chemicals or solvents to modify their paint, Gopalakrishnan has developed her unique technique, opting for pure oil paint and natural linseed oil to preserve the richness of her colors. This conscious decision to use non-toxic and sustainable materials has earned her the title of a California Green Business Certified artist, showcasing her dedication to environmental responsibility.
Her workspace reflects this commitment to safety and sustainability, creating a nurturing environment that allows her to create worry-free. With a studio free from toxic materials, Gopalakrishnan expresses a deep sense of responsibility toward both her art and the land it represents. Collectors and art enthusiasts can confidently acquire her pieces, knowing that they have been created with care for both the health of the artist and the beauty of the natural world.
Gopalakrishnan’s captivating work will be showcased at Newport Beach’s 20th Annual Art in the Park event on Saturday, September 20. To explore her portfolio further, visit her website at sangeethag.com. For those interested in attending the event, more information can be found at newportbeachartsfoundation.org. Through her artistry, Gopalakrishnan exemplifies how the intersection of passion, nature, and sustainable practices can lead to transformative creative expressions.
