In this exclusive conversation with FACE Magazine, Abhay Sehgal opens up about his evolution as an artist, the emotional undercurrents of his work, and how Art By Sehgal became a distinctive voice in contemporary Indian art. From carpets and surreal aesthetics to digital illustrations and meditative studio rituals, Sehgal shares it all.
The Beginning of Art By Sehgal
For Abhay, Art By Sehgal wasn’t a product of strategy — it was born from instinct during a deeply introspective time. “Covid was a time where I found myself in my own little bubble,” he recalls. “Art and running were the two things that kept me sane.” He eventually moved to Miami, took up a gallery sales job to understand the business side of art, and gave himself one year to see if his passion could become a full-time path.
Artistic Style: A Third Perspective
Describing his style as surreal, maximalist, and contemporary, Sehgal focuses on emotional depth and curiosity about human behavior. “That curiosity often leads me to explore a third perspective — one that steps back and observes free from rules or structure.”
The Work That Changed It All: ‘Retro Patterns’
Among his many pieces, “Retro Patterns” holds special meaning. Crafted using carpet as a base — an idea seeded during his college years — this work was a creative leap. It debuted at World Art Dubai and became a personal checkpoint. “It was the debut of a carpet maximalist piece. Finishing this felt like a real achievement.”
The Role of the Digital World
From seeking gallery validation to valuing his audience’s direct support, Sehgal’s relationship with the digital space has matured. “It’s the audience’s love that builds value. Their support didn’t just help me grow; it helped me stay true to my dreams.”
Creative Process: Structure Meets Spontaneity
While emotionally spontaneous, his technical approach is structured. He begins with digital collages, then refines them into detailed illustrations before moving to canvas. “I’m not an abstract artist. I like knowing exactly what I’m working on.”
Navigating Art, Commerce, and Consciousness
“There is no real balance — and that’s okay,” Sehgal says about blending passion with business. “I just focus on creating — and somehow, everything else falls into place.”
The Influence of Personal Journey
Having studied in Chicago and grown up in an all-boys boarding school, independence is stitched into Sehgal’s work. From manifestation boards to hidden brand logos, his life consistently finds its way onto the canvas.
The Emotional Core of Stillness
His artworks invite calm — not by design but by discipline. “The meditative quality emerged from consistent practice. I began to incorporate more of my life experiences into my work as my skills developed.”
Inspirations: From Dali to Sabyasachi
Early inspirations like Salvador Dali and Raja Ravi Varma shaped his style, while contemporary artists like Daniel Arsham influence his cross-disciplinary thinking. Sehgal dreams of collaborating with Nike and designer Sabyasachi, citing strong alignment in design philosophies.
Art as a Brand: Staying Authentic
Sehgal emphasizes authenticity in brand-building. “The more raw and honest you are, the easier it becomes to build a brand. That’s what Art By Sehgal stands for.”
Studio Vibes: Organized Chaos
His studio is his blackboard — chaotic yet meditative. “It’s a reminder of my aspirations. It keeps me grounded.”
On Creative Blocks
A key piece of advice from his mentor changed his mindset: Don’t believe in creative blocks. Instead, Sehgal shifts gears, reconnects with life, and lets new energy find him.
Defining Success
“I consider ‘success’ a taboo word,” Sehgal laughs. “I don’t categorize it. I just dream big and work hard every day.”
What’s Next for Art By Sehgal?
A major milestone awaits — a solo exhibition at Bikaner House, Delhi on September 13. Alongside, his brand Codebrwn will release a winter collection that shares a visual dialogue with his paintings. “The design languages of both projects are intertwined,” he hints.
Abhay Sehgal is not just painting canvases — he’s building a legacy that blurs the lines between art, fashion, emotion, and entrepreneurship. With Art By Sehgal, he’s crafting a universe where expression knows no bounds.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artbysehgal/
