Nirupama Patra shows her paintings at Berhampur. Picture by Gopal Krishna Reddy

Berhampur, Sept. 22: She has been practising brush strokes since the age of six. She may be hearing and speech impaired, but her sensitivity finds expression through vivid images on canvas. Meet 33-year-old Nirupama Patra, who is differently-abled but a talented painter.

Professionally trained a diploma holder in fine arts from Khallikote Arts School, Nirupama displays immense talent. Daughter of Jagannath Patra, a retired junior engineer, and homemaker Sibalaxmi, Nirupama’s aptitude in fine arts, even as a child, had surprised her parents.

“When we spotted her creativity, she was just a toddler. We were surprised at how good she was. We are really glad that she is always happy and engrossed while expressing her thoughts on canvas,” said Sibalaxmi. Her father added: “We are very proud of her. Nirupama is hearing and speech impaired, but her thoughts and approach to life are more mature than even ours.”

Encouraged by the love of her family, Nirupama managed to clear her Class X examinations from a general school in Phulbani overcoming a more than 70 per cent impairment in hearing and speech. She pursued fine arts with vigour and is at present working at National Child Labour Project School in Hanuman Bazar.

She wants to fulfil many more ambitions. “I have great interest in fine art. I want to be an art teacher. Sadly, government schools are not taking art teachers now. My income is meagre now and I still depend upon others for my livelihood. I want to be independent,” she said, using sign language.

Many of her artworks depict the human form, especially the eyes, which project hope, innocence and aspirations. Her paintings also convey the worth of little pleasures in life. “Before beginning any painting I think deeply about my theme. My thoughts and expressions coordinate with each other and I try to illustrate them,” she said.

Her first solo painting exhibition was held at Gopalpur Beach Festival three years ago. Her artworks have succeeded in taking viewers beyond mundane experience. “I also exhibit my works during every meeting of the Ganjam District Deaf and Dumb Association once in a year. Many hearing and speech impaired friends interact with me and ask questions about my artwork. This experience gives me immense pleasure,” said Nirupama.