Today we’d like to introduce you to Shyama Rangwala.
Hi Shyama, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Art and music have always been an integral part of my life. As a child, I was deeply drawn to both forms of expression. I initially trained in music, but my teacher was extremely strict, and over time, that experience taught me a very valuable lesson which is how much a teacher’s approach can shape a student’s relationship with art. I decided then that if I ever became a teacher, I would be one who inspired love and passion, not fear.
That philosophy stayed with me as I pursued my artistic journey. I began painting from a very young age, and over time, my passion for art only deepened. I majored in Commercial Arts, and during that time, I became spiritually devoted to Lord Krishna. My faith became a central inspiration for my work, leading me to paint Krishna in his many moods and forms. This became the core theme of my exhibitions across India, “My Krishna in Different Moods.”
With the encouragement of my art teacher, I began showcasing my work in exhibitions. To my surprise and delight, they were a huge success. My art was featured in magazines and newspapers, I gave interviews, and even celebrities attended my shows in both India and the U.S. Alongside my exhibitions, I also worked on commissioned paintings, creating customized pieces that reflected people’s emotions, stories, and spiritual connections for churches, celebrities, temples, local individuals, the Sheriff’s Office, and many more.
After my marriage, when I moved to the United States, I expanded my artistic journey even further. While my devotion to Krishna still remains a big part of who I am, I began exploring and teaching all kinds of art forms from around the world from traditional Indian techniques to modern and contemporary global styles. We teach a wide range of art forms, including Warli, Madhubani, traditional Indian art, modern art, abstract art, pen and ink, Zentangle, and many other creative techniques.
I started teaching art classes from home in Tampa, Florida, in 2002 and over time, my small studio grew into a well-known name in the community. Shyama’s Art established in 2011 named after the spiritual name given to me by my guru, has now become a family business. My husband, Tilesh Rangwala, and my daughter, Radhika, are my greatest supporters, and together we’ve built a creative space that connects students not only across Tampa but also in other states and even countries through online classes.
In addition to regular classes, we also host art workshops, summer camps, birthday parties, art shows, and more events. We collaborate with other organizations to organize art based fundraisers and have donated paintings to hospitals and senior citizen homes, using art as a way to bring happiness, healing, and inspiration to the community.
I’m proud to say that many of my students have gone on to win prestigious awards. I’ve also had the privilege of working with special needs and autistic children after receiving training and a certificate to be an autism-friendly business from the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) at the University of South Florida. My efforts have been recognized locally as well — I was honored with a Citizenship Award by Hillsborough county Sheriff’s Indian Advisory Council, and I even presented one of my paintings to Tampa Mayor Jane Castor. One of my earliest miniature paintings was selected to be displayed in a major museum in Washington, D.C., which was an incredible honor. I also created a 22 ft by 17 ft painting in just three days for a theatre backdrop in India, a project that required immense focus and detail.
One of my proudest moments was holding my first exhibition in America at the Gasparilla Festival of the Arts in 2004, one of the most competitive and prestigious art events in the region.
Through all of this, my journey has always been guided by faith, family, and the belief that art has the power to heal, connect, and uplift.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been an easy road. When I was just five years old, I was diagnosed with a serious disease called scleroderma, and the doctors told my parents that I might not live beyond ten years. I spent much of my childhood homeschooled and in pain, but that experience shaped who I am today. It taught me resilience, faith, and the will to fight against all odds. My parents call me their miracle child, not because I survived, but because I learned to live with purpose and gratitude.
Another major challenge came during the COVID-19 pandemic. Like many teachers and artists, I had to transition my classes online almost overnight. It was a difficult adjustment, managing technology, engaging students remotely, and keeping the same level of creativity alive was not easy. But once again, with love and support from my family, I adapted. In fact, that challenge opened new doors: I began teaching students not only across the U.S. but also from other countries such as the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Canada, India, Africa, and more. What started as an obstacle became an opportunity for growth and expansion.
Every struggle in my life from my childhood illness to pandemic uncertainty, has only deepened my faith and strengthened my connection to art. Each challenge has reminded me why I teach: to inspire others to find beauty, hope, and resilience through creativity.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My art is deeply personal, it’s not just about colors and brushes, but about faith, devotion, and the strength to rise above limitations. I specialize in devotional and expressive art, with a focus on portraying Lord Krishna in his many moods and emotions. My paintings often aim to capture a divine connection, something that touches the soul of both the viewer and the artist.
What truly sets me apart, however, is not just my style or themes, but the journey behind every piece I create. I was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease called scleroderma when I was a child. It left the right side of my body, my arm and leg, atrophied, shorter, and without muscle strength. Doctors advised me to switch to using my left hand for daily activities and painting, but I refused to let that define me. I still paint, create, and do everything with my right hand, the same one they said would never function normally.
When I first started painting, my right hand would often shake and hurt so much that even holding a brush was difficult, except when I painted Krishna. In those moments, the pain and trembling would simply disappear. It felt as though He guided my hand Himself, steadying it with His grace. That’s when I realized my art wasn’t just a talent; it was a divine calling and a form of connection with God. Despite my physical limitations, I’ve never allowed my condition to restrict my experiences. I’ve climbed mountains, walked through snow, and taken on challenges that many thought were impossible for me. Every obstacle has only fueled my spirit to go further, to prove that strength isn’t about physical ability, but about faith, perseverance, and the belief that with God’s blessings, anything is possible.
The doctors once told my parents that I might not live beyond ten years, yet here I am today living a full and meaningful life. They also said that pregnancy would be too high-risk for me, but by God’s grace, I’m now a proud mother of a wonderful daughter, Radhika Rangwala, who is also a talented artist. She is my greatest joy and inspiration.
What truly defines me and my work is that nothing I do is for recognition or for anyone else, everything I create is for God, inspired by Him, and dedicated to Him. My art is my prayer. Every painting is an offering of gratitude and love. When I paint Krishna, I feel His presence guiding me, reminding me that every struggle can be transformed into strength through faith.
In the end, my journey is simply about love, love for God, for art, and for life itself. Through every challenge and every brushstroke, I hope my work inspires others to see that faith and passion can turn even the hardest paths into something truly beautiful.
So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
What matters most to me is my faith in God, my family, and the people I have the privilege to teach and inspire through art. My devotion to Lord Krishna guides everything I do, it keeps me grounded, grateful, and motivated to use my talent for a higher purpose. My family is my biggest blessing and support system; they’ve been by my side through every challenge and every success, and together we’ve built something meaningful with Shyama’s Art.
I care deeply about my students and their growth, not just as artists but as individuals. Watching them gain confidence, express themselves, and achieve their dreams brings me immense joy. I always want to inspire others especially my students to stay determined, work hard, and never back down from a challenge. Life and art both have their ups and downs, but if you stay true to your passion and your purpose, beautiful things will always unfold.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shyamasart?igsh=cGdzNmhsbnd3OWdv&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shyamasart/
