Painting Dreams

Kajal aka Dizy speaks to Cosmo India on what it takes to be one of India’s first graffiti artists, plus how this art form is becoming major all over the country.

- Shambhavi Dutta

Cosmo: Tell us what inspired you to become a graffiti artist.

Dizy: “I am an avid hip-hop fan, and while exploring the genre, I began learning about the other elements as well. Graffiti regularly features in the music videos, and there are some magnificent artworks on the streets of New Delhi as well. That made me curious about the art form.”

C: How has the graffiti scene evolved in India?

D: “Graffiti as an art form is quite expensive, especially in India. A single spray can, on an average, costs around ̀₹500. Every artwork requires frequent retouches over the course of several weeks to create a vivid effect that catches everyone’s eye. Creating graffiti is an adventurous activity that requires a lot of stamina.”

C: Is it challenging being a female graffiti artist?

D: “The graffiti scene is highly dominated by men. Even in the US and Europe there are very few female graffiti artists. That’s why getting recognised for the work I do and presenting the same on the streets of New Delhi and Berlin has been a long, tough journey.