Written by 
Hi! My name is Sharmini Markandu and I am from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
I am absolutely thrilled to be featured by Doodlewash. Honestly, I had to pinch myself when I got a message from Charlie asking me to be a guest artist.
I feel like such a newbie to watercolours even though I was introduced it during the art lessons I was taking as a kid. (There were a lot of other classes / lessons – taekwondo, ballet, swimming, ping pong, badminton, piano…. I guess I was the typical Asian kid with numerous extra-curricular activities!) Art was a hobby that got pushed to the side as I studied to become an engineer and then somehow maneuvered myself into a career in the financial industry.
About 2 years ago, I picked up pointed pen calligraphy on a whim. As I progressed in that, I thought I could perhaps incorporate some colour in the form of watercolour. So I pulled out my old Korean watercolour set (I am amazed that they have kept through all these years!) and with a little trepidation started to paint.
Initially, what helped me along were certain Instagram groups / hashtags (such as #ifdrawaweek, #handletteredABCs, #calligrabasics) which had organised themed weeks. That helped me find a focus, explore different themes and receive some feedback in terms of the work that I was a bit hesitant in showing.
Otherwise, I paint what is in my head – mainly what pops up when I listen to songs or read. For inspiration there are numerous talented artists I follow on Instagram and blogs – such as Liz Steel, Anne-Laure Jacquart, Doodlewash and the artists featured on Doodlewash.
I am trying to resist my hoarding tendencies and keep my watercolour supplies pretty simple for now. I usually start my pieces with a light pencil sketch, followed with some outlines with a fountain pen filled with waterproof ink. I am still finishing up my old Korean watercolours and have supplemented that with some Winsor & Newton tubes (as the brand is pretty available here).
Recently, I got myself a Winsor & Newton 16 half pan set. I tend to favour round brushes which contain either sable or squirrel hair. I am working my way through some sketchbooks – both store bought and hand bound, so that I can test out which papers work for me.
Watercolour is definitely something I want to keep working and expanding on. There are so many subject matters and styles I would like to try out. I envision this to be a lifelong learning journey for me and I look forward to it.
Sharmini Markandu
Instagram
Today’s link does not work…would like to see the guest doodlewash.
Not sure why… page seems fine and your comment showed us under the post. Here’s the direct link:
https://doodlewash.com/2016/10/03/guest-doodlewash-still-finding-my-way/
Sharmini, your art is vibrant and full of life, so much fun to see. Your calligraphy is exquisite and compliments each painting. The best to you as you keep learning.
Thanks for your lovely comments Sharon. I will continue learning as this is a life long endeavour. 🙂
That dandelion one is pretty much exactly what I want as a tattoo! Love it 🙂
Hahahaha. Sarah – you are welcome to use it. Do let me know if you ever do. 🙂
Really lovely sketches and such an interesting Segway into art. I enjoyed your article.
It does let people know that there are different segways into art, no? Thanks for reading the writeup, Teri.
Love your writing and the essence of your work. 💋
Thank you, dear for your kind comments. I will endeavour to continue. 🙂
Love your style, Sharmini!
Thanks for the lovely comment Anya!
Beautiful and fresh work !