Behind the Scenes with April Vixxi: An Exclusive Interview with the Adult Star

I had the opportunity to engage in a conversation with April Vixxi, an adult star and model. We explored her background, the motivations behind her decision to enter the adult industry, as well as her interests and hobbies. I trust you will find this reading enjoyable.

Amit Ahuja: To begin, we’d love to explore the foundation of who you are today—can you take

us back to your earliest years and share where you were born and raised, what your childhood environment was like, and how your family traditions, cultural background, and upbringing helped shape your identity, worldview, and the person you’ve grown into over time?

April Vixxi: I was born and raised in Southern California. I grew up with a fascinating blend of influences, on my mom’s side, a more conservative Christian background, and on my dad’s side, a more leftist, hippie worldview. I’m mixed as well, and I was raised in a very diverse area, surrounded by people from many different walks of life.

Being an only child, I often found my friends becoming like an extended family within my neighborhood, which helped shape how open-minded I’ve always been. Growing up with so many perspectives allowed me to come to my own conclusions about life, identity, and community. I think that environment ultimately encouraged me to embrace an unconventional path and to remain deeply curious about the world.

Amit Ahuja: When you look back on your life so far, what major experiences, challenges, or defining turning points do you feel had the greatest influence on your values and beliefs, and how have those moments continued to shape the way you approach relationships, work, creativity, and personal growth today?

April Vixxi: One of the most defining turning points in my life was being diagnosed with multiple chronic illnesses in 2020, alongside the onset of the COVID pandemic. I live with POTS, MCAS, interstitial cystitis, ovarian cysts, Long COVID, and PTSD. Between 2020 and 2023, I was severely ill, often bedbound and housebound.

That experience completely reshaped my understanding of how fragile life can be. It taught me that health truly is wealth, and it deepened my desire to advocate for others living with similar conditions. Thankfully, my health has improved significantly, and being able to pursue my career now feels like a gift. I hope my journey can remind others that even through immense difficulty, dreams are still possible. Your dreams are alive as long as you are.

Amit Ahuja: Before entering the adult industry, were you particularly drawn to certain genres or styles of adult films, and what was it about those productions—such as emotional storytelling, character dynamics, chemistry between performers, or visual aesthetics—that resonated with you on a deeper, more personal level?

April Vixxi: I’ve always been drawn to gothic and darker aesthetics, so seeing that represented within the adult industry has always excited me. I’m especially inspired by performers who bring alternative style and emotional storytelling into their work.

One of the earliest performers I admired was Joanna Angel, who I feel has gone above and beyond in paving the way for alternative representation in mainstream adult entertainment. Seeing that kind of authenticity and artistry resonated deeply with me.

Amit Ahuja: Were there specific adult performers who inspired or influenced you before you began your own journey, and what qualities about their confidence, artistry, authenticity, or presence helped you see adult entertainment as a space where creativity, empowerment, and self-expression could coexist?

April Vixxi: I’ve been inspired by many figures in entertainment, even beyond adult film specifically. Growing up, I was very influenced by Pamela Anderson. I remember watching Barb Wire and thinking, “I want to be just like her.” I loved her rock n' roll ’80s/’90s style, her intelligence, and her involvement in advocacy.

I’ve also always admired iconic groupies and muses from the ’60s, like Pamela Des Barres, as well as women who bridged music, modeling, and acting such as Tawny Kitaen and Bobbie Brown. I’m drawn to people who immerse themselves fully in entertainment and self-expression across many creative lanes.

Amit Ahuja: Can you walk us through the moment—or series of moments—that ultimately sparked your journey into adult creation, including the experiences, influences, or personal realizations that encouraged you to take that first step into the adult entertainment industry?

April Vixxi: I began dancing when I was 18, turning 19, after moving to Hollywood. Through friends who were already involved in the industry, I started working in exotic dancing for about five years, and eventually became involved in kink and fetish spaces as well.

I’ve always felt the adult industry is often misunderstood, and I’ve wanted to highlight the freedom and opportunity it can provide, the ability to travel, meet people from all backgrounds, explore creativity, and build a life outside of constant survival mode. Coming from a theater background, entertaining felt like a natural extension of who I am.

I did step away for a time while navigating serious health struggles, but supportive friends and coworkers encouraged me back into the industry. I’m endlessly grateful for those who believed in me and helped me find my way back.

Amit Ahuja: How long have you been working as an adult performer, and over that time, how has your understanding of the industry evolved—particularly in terms of your role within it, your relationship with your audience, and how you view yourself as both a creative and a professional?

April Vixxi: I’ve been involved in entertainment in some form for most of my life, so pursuing adult work when I came of age felt like a natural progression. Over the years, I’ve witnessed enormous shifts in the industry, especially with the rise of platforms like OnlyFans.

I love that it has made adult work more accessible and personal, allowing creators to connect with audiences in a more organic way. Now, as I expand into mainstream work as well, I find both spaces uniquely special and creatively fulfilling.

Amit Ahuja: Since starting your career, what types of adult scenes or genres have you participated in, and can you share a few memorable, surprising, or meaningful experiences from filming that left a lasting impression on you either personally or professionally?

April Vixxi: I’ve been fortunate to participate in multiple AMXF scenes, and I’ve truly enjoyed the experience. The response has been overwhelmingly supportive and kind.

I also love creating scenes with touches of gothic romance, because that aesthetic feels deeply authentic to me. One of the most meaningful parts of my work is hearing from both women and men who say my content has brought them joy or confidence in their everyday lives. Being able to inspire those feelings is an honor I never take for granted.

Amit Ahuja: Are there particular themes, fantasies, or creative directions that you feel especially curious about but haven’t yet explored, and what is it about those unexplored experiences that continues to intrigue, inspire, or excite you?

April Vixxi: As someone who is Bisexual, I would love to film a G/G scene soon. I really value working with other women in this industry, sharing stories, learning from one another, and supporting each other creatively.

I’m also interested in exploring a B/G/B scene, because I think it’s powerful to see men comfortable with intimacy and connection in that way. Additionally, I want to continue exploring BDSM work, both because I enjoy pushing myself creatively and because I believe it’s important to portray it in a safe, consensual, and educational way that empowers people in their own lives.

Amit Ahuja: Body confidence is often an ongoing and evolving journey—how do you personally navigate self-image as a performer, and what practices, affirmations, boundaries, or mindset shifts help you embrace your body and individuality with confidence both on and off camera?

April Vixxi: Body confidence is an ongoing journey, especially in such a visual industry. I try to prioritize my health above all else. I take precautions to avoid illness, and I personally mask in many day-to-day settings because health is everything to me.

I’m grateful that I’m able to work out and care for my body, but I also recognize that many aspects of “perfection” in this industry are performance (makeup, lighting, editing, surgery, fillers.) I remind myself and others that what we see on screen isn’t always reality.

Comparison truly is the thief of joy. When I need a reset, I log off and reconnect with the real world: music, hobbies, loved ones, rest. Ultimately, self-worth cannot be built on other people’s opinions. You are worthy simply because you exist.

Amit Ahuja: If you were given the opportunity to collaborate with any male or female performers in the industry, who would you choose, and what about their energy, professionalism, creativity, or on-screen presence excites you most about the possibility of working together?

April Vixxi: A female performer I would love to work with is Melody Marks. I’ve followed her career for a while, and what she’s accomplished at such a young age is incredibly impressive. I also admire Kazumi and the empire she’s built.

Among OnlyFans creators, I really appreciate KittTheBeefcake and Ari Kytsya for their transparency and authenticity.

A male performer I would love to work with is Leo Vice. I admire both his work and his outlook on the world.

Outside the industry, anyone who knows me knows how much I love BTS. Their message of self-love and speaking your story has inspired me endlessly. It would be a dream to collaborate with them someday in any creative capacity, even something as simple as being an extra in a music video.

Amit Ahuja: In what ways has working in the adult industry shaped your professional path beyond performance, particularly when it comes to developing business skills, self-advocacy, confidence, and a deeper understanding of your own value as a brand and creative entrepreneur?

April Vixxi: This industry has completely reshaped my priorities and strengthened my business mindset. I’ve grown from being more of an INFJ into someone who feels much more like an INTJ: focused, strategic, and self-determined.

Being an adult entertainer also means being a business owner. I’ve learned so much about branding, marketing, and self-advocacy from friends in the industry. Before launching my own career more fully, I worked as a personal assistant to the creator OctobersThirteenth, and seeing firsthand how he built and managed his brand taught me how much administration and discipline this work requires.

My agency, OC Modeling, has also been incredible in guiding me through the professional side of the industry, and I’m deeply grateful for that support.

Amit Ahuja: When you first shared your career aspirations with friends and family, how did they respond, what challenges or moments of support did you encounter, and how did those reactions influence your confidence, resilience, and determination to continue pursuing this path?

April Vixxi: I’m extremely fortunate that the friends and family I’ve told have been overwhelmingly supportive. Because I already had close friends in the industry, the process was met with encouragement rather than fear.

I’m especially lucky to be very close with my dad. He raised me to be thoughtful and strong, and he trusts my judgment. His support has meant everything.

Amit Ahuja: Beyond adult entertainment, what other artistic or creative outlets have you explored, and how do these pursuits allow you to express different sides of your personality, creativity, or emotional depth outside of your work in the industry?

April Vixxi: Outside of adult entertainment, I’ve explored acting, singing, musical theater, modeling, activism, advocacy, podcasting, and poetry. I’m also a published poet, and writing has always been one of the most grounding outlets for me.

Creativity is the thread that connects everything I do. I love moving between different artistic worlds and allowing inspiration from one lane to feed into another.

Amit Ahuja: Looking toward the future, what goals, milestones, or creative achievements are you most excited to pursue in your adult career over the next few years, and what do you hope those accomplishments will represent for you personally and professionally?

April Vixxi: In the future, I would love to expand into the Japanese Adult market and become a household name within the industry overall. I’m also interested in crossing over into more SFW entertainment, because I love exploring different creative avenues.

Someday, I hope to write a book about my life that incorporates my poetry. Accomplishing these goals wouldn’t just be personal milestones, it would allow me to give back and create opportunities that extend beyond myself.

Amit Ahuja: Who are three people who have profoundly shaped your life—artistically, personally, or professionally? What impact did they have, and how do their lessons continue to resonate with you today?

April Vixxi: Three forces have profoundly shaped my life:

First, my dad. During the worst of my chronic illness, he literally carried me from room to room when I couldn’t walk. I wouldn’t be here without him.

Second, BTS. I discovered their music while I was in the ICU with COVID. Their art gave me light during my darkest days. I re-taught myself how to walk to their music, and looking forward to their concerts gave me motivation when I had none.

Third, my close friends, especially Ashley, October, and Jenny. They’ve supported me through every version of myself and have encouraged me to chase my dreams without judgment

Amit Ahuja: When it comes to the media and art you enjoy most, can you share some of your all-time favorite movies and explain what it is about them that truly resonates with you—whether it’s the storytelling, characters, cinematography, or emotional impact? In that same spirit, which TV shows do you find yourself eagerly returning to, and what keeps you invested in them? We’d also love to hear about books that have left a lasting impression on you, podcasts you highly recommend, and the music or artists you connect with most—including a concert experience that was especially meaningful to you and why.

April Vixxi: Some of my favorite films include V for Vendetta, which feels increasingly politically relevant, and Almost Famous, which inspired my love of writing and immersive artistic life.

I’m also drawn to characters driven by longing, ambition, and passion like Maxxxine Minx from the X trilogy, Jay Gatsby from The Great Gatsby, Sayuri from Memoirs of a Geisha, and Christian from Moulin Rouge.

Shows and games that inspire me include Sons of Anarchy, Mr. Robot, The Last of Us, Interview with the Vampire, and the K-drama Twenty Five Twenty One. I also love Mass Effect, To The Moon, and Final Fantasy VII.

The most meaningful concerts of my life have been BTS and Mumford and Sons concerts. All of the previous times I saw BTS live, I was in a wheelchair. Being able to return this year for their reunion tour, walking in and dancing again, will feel like a dream come true. 💜

Amit Ahuja: Happiness and success mean different things to everyone—how do you personally define happiness in your life, and in what ways does that sense of fulfillment intersect with, support, or sometimes challenge your artistic ambitions and professional goals?

April Vixxi: For me, happiness comes down to three things: the peace of singing along front row at a concert, knowing my loved ones feel loved, and knowing I am loved in return.

I don’t believe happiness is a constant state, it’s made of fleeting glimmers. As long as I can feel those moments, I consider myself deeply fortunate.

Amit Ahuja: As someone navigating a creative and public-facing career, how do you stay grounded while continuing to push yourself creatively and professionally, and what helps you maintain balance between ambition and well-being?

April Vixxi: I’m still learning how to balance ambition and well-being, honestly. Sometimes it’s hard not to feel like you’re doing enough.

In those moments, I turn to gratitude. Not long ago, I could barely walk down the block. Now I’m living a life I once prayed for. Remembering what my past self endured grounds me instantly.

Amit Ahuja: Creativity and mental health are often deeply connected—can you share any personal experiences with navigating mental health challenges throughout your artistic journey, and how those experiences have shaped your perspective on self-care, resilience, and growth?

April Vixxi: Resilience is probably the word most people would use to describe me. When my mental health feels overwhelmed, I pause. I walk, listen to music, cry, rest... anything that quiets the noise.

Living in a body that doesn’t always cooperate means learning to ride the waves with grace. It’s a lifelong balance between rest, self-compassion, and persistence.

Amit Ahuja: What coping tools, habits, routines, or support systems have helped you protect your mental and emotional well-being, and what advice would you offer to other artists who are learning how to care for themselves while remaining creatively expressive?

April Vixxi: My biggest advice is this: health must be your number one priority. If it isn’t, your body will eventually force it to be.

Healthy habits help me feel grounded. Movement when possible, nourishing food, sleep, avoiding illness, and making time for joy outside of work. Quality time with loved ones and investing in hobbies are essential.

Amit Ahuja: Finally, as we wrap up, what reflections or thoughts would you like to leave with your fans—and with anyone out there chasing a dream—about perseverance, authenticity, creativity, or trusting your own path?

April Vixxi: Never give up, no matter the odds. Even when life feels grim, there is always a glimmer of hope. Hold onto it and run with it as far as you can.

Be yourself, stay rooted in good character, and trust that your path, no matter how unconventional, is still worthy. You may end up further than you ever imagined.

Amit Ahuja: Thank You to April Vixxi for sharing your story with my readers today.

All information regarding April Vixxi's work and her social media presence can be accessed through the link below:

https://beacons.ai/velvetmuse

***All photos are credited to April Vixxi, unless otherwise specified.***

Mini Interview with Lives Lost on Their New Single Haunted

Photo Credit:  Ian Mimnall of icmvisuals

I am pleased to announce a new initiative focused on conducting mini-interviews about upcoming music releases from various artists. This platform is designed to offer musicians the chance to share insights into their creative processes, the inspiration behind their songs, and what fans can expect from their new music.

Before we begin, let's provide some background on this band. The spark for LIVES LOST was ignited in Hershey, PA, in 2020 in the apartment of singer/songwriter Tanis Pellegrini, quickly transitioning from bedroom dreaming to making a significant impact on the scene. Their purpose was straightforward: to answer the call for music-based ministry, spreading compassion and service to others through music.

From the outset, LIVES LOST has been a vessel for the light of human connection, channeling influences both old and new to create a sonic blend of emotional songwriting, high-energy instrumentals, and soaring vocals. They have brought their electric performances to stages across the East Coast, Midwest, and Deep South, as well as maintaining a strong Internet presence on social media platforms.

For fans of modern rock acts like Beartooth and Nothing More, as well as legacy post-hardcore acts such as Silverstein and Underoath, LIVES LOST has established itself as an essential new force in alternative music. Their monumental singles from their sophomore effort, "Home EP," including "Numb the Pain" and "FOUND," featuring an iconic performance from Kellin Quinn of Sleeping with Sirens, have solidified their presence. This success has led to radio appearances on IDOBI HOWL, Kerrang! New Blood radio show, 228 The Sound, and numerous blogs and tastemakers like V13, New Fury, HM Magazine, Outburn, and Ghost Killer Entertainment, among others.

However, LIVES LOST is more than just a collection of influences. Their music deeply explores the human experience, delving into themes of loss, love, and the struggles we all face in a world that often feels chaotic and unforgiving.

The current lineup of Lives Lost includes:

• Tanis Pellegrini - Lead Vocals

• Alan Thompson - Drums

• Chad Wynn - Lead Guitar, Backing Vocals

• Austin Zechman - Rhythm Guitar, Backing Vocals

Photo Credit:  Ian Mimnall of icmvisuals (Tanis Pellegrini - Lead Vocals)

Today, I am delighted to welcome back the talented lead vocalist, Tanis Pellegrini, from the band Lives Lost. I had the opportunity to ask him a few questions about his brand-new single, "Haunted," which you can read below.

Amit Ahuja: Let’s talk about your new track “Haunted.” Can you take us back to the very beginning of this single and walk us through its earliest moments—whether it started with a lyric, a melody, a feeling, or a specific experience—and explain how that initial spark, along with its source of inspiration (whether personal experience, observation, or imagination), continued to guide the songwriting process, shape the sound, and influence the overall emotional tone, lyrical direction, and message of the song as it gradually came together?

Tanis Pellegrini: The song was rewritten and came together a couple different times with a couple different meetings, but ultimately, I kept circling back to where I feel we are as a society with social media and perceived value of self. We are all closer than ever with social media but also more disconnected than ever and I think and feel that we're all clinging to our past more than ever because of our digital footprint and I do not think that this mindset is healthy and that contributes to the isolation. We remember how easy community was when we were kids and life as an adult can be hard and isolating because we don't find time for the things that matter. We're burnt out so we Netflix binge and doom scroll, but we should be recharging with our friends, family, and loved ones.

To take it a step further, for me as a Christian, there are more than a few verses in the Bible there's a few references of having to move forward and not clinging on to the past. I think that this is when this final form of this song came together and it just finally ended up being a full rewrite in a day and ended up being one of the best songs, I think I've ever created. Like you can get stuck in the past and

I feel like almost all of our current catalog was written about my trauma and things that HAVE happened whereas I'm ready to write about TODAY and help others out of the hole that we can be in with the pace of life and clinging onto nostalgia. I feel like in Isaiah when the Israelites are exiled from Babylon, and they're wearing the future, God tells them “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!” And that serves as a reminder to me to move forward even when unknowing and to finally leave the past in the past as God intended me to do long ago and I think it's my job to spread this message with my ministry.

Photo Credit:  Ian Mimnall of icmvisuals (Alan Thompson - Drums)

Amit Ahuja: When it came time to develop the cover art for this single, how did you approach creating a visual identity that truly reflects the atmosphere, emotional weight, and underlying themes of the song, and how important was it for the artwork to feel like a natural extension of the music rather than just a standalone image?

Tanis Pellegrini: It was so important to find a good image and for me, I think the person on the outside window clinging to the glass with the other disembodied person on the bed with the phone right by them just fits the vibe of disconnection and despair that I think that we get caught in. It's a very haunting image and it really speaks to what the song is about.

Amit Ahuja: As a band, do you feel that these single carries a shared meaning that everyone connects to in the same way, or has each member developed their own personal interpretation and emotional relationship with the song as it evolved through the writing, recording, and eventual release process?

Tanis Pellegrini: I think per the usual we all develop our own perspective on what a song is about and how it feels. I think that everybody in this band wasn't 100% about this song initially because this is our first song where I'm really evoking Christian undertones into the music out loud other than chin up kid, which I think is just such a double entender that most people's meaning flies over their head…. That being said, I think the rest of the band only really caught on to this song when was finally finished in November/December and it's really grown on them and I think they all relate to it on a different level.

Photo Credit: Ian Mimnall of icmvisuals (Chad Wynn - Lead Guitar, Backing Vocals)

Amit Ahuja: Was there a particular lyric in the song that holds a deeper meaning for you personally, and does that line connect to a specific moment, feeling, or experience that influenced the writing of the track and helped define its emotional core?

Tanis Pellegrini: For me, the pre-course hit so hard because it's like talking about how everything in the modern world is, or well, it's supposed to be, self-love, but it ends up hurting you in the end and the line “If This is love. Why does it hurt? You've taken everything! Unholy Ghost of History we wrote, you can't escape.” It really drives that feeling home and I think some people are going to relate this song to toxic relationships or something and I think that's good cuz it gives it more mainstream appeal. But the toxic relationship for me that this song talks about is my and many other people's relationship with social media.

Amit Ahuja: When you look at this single in the context of your earlier releases, in what ways do you feel it represents growth for Haunted as a band—whether through new musical choices, a deeper level of emotional honesty, or a more confident and evolved creative approach—and how does this song fit into the band’s current chapter both creatively and personally while also offering a glimpse into your upcoming plans or future direction?

Tanis Pellegrini: The song is hands down the most alternative metal/ metalcore release we as a band have ever had and I think it speaks to the direction that I'm taking this new music. As a writer, I'm really ready to bring the nu metal riffs and the intensity in this new songwriting that I have shied away from on some former releases. I think it's time that I'm finally stalwart in my convictions and I am immovable in my purpose. The new music makes you feel that in every chord and every vocal melody and I'm very ready for this chapter. This is where lives lost are going and I can't be more excited to bring that to the masses.

Photo Credit:  Ian Mimnall of icmvisuals (Austin Zechman - Rhythm Guitar, Backing Vocals)

Amit Ahuja: As this single makes its way out into the world, what do you hope listeners feel, take away, or connect with after spending time with “Haunted”?

Tanis Pellegrini: I truly hope that listeners take this song as a reevaluation on what we consume, on the people we spend time with and on how we treat our bodies mentally, physically and spiritually. We have one shot at this life, and I want to spend it doing the things I love with people. I love and inspiring others to do the same.

Amit Ahuja: Thank You So Much Tanis Pellegrini from Lives Lost for sharing a bit about your brand-new single "Haunted."

We invite you to explore this exceptional band. All related information can be accessed via the link below:

https://beacons.ai/liveslostband?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnGvs4qm0rL3izgcjmsv4COJPg-_ovfN5igoBjNlWMzz1RZwKpC98UWA8q1kw_aem_sTmlTw70yJ0Z422aFUg4uQ

***Unless otherwise specified, all image credits are attributed to Ian Mimnall of icmvisuals.***

Exploring the Creative Journey of Painter Jyothee Murali

Photo Credit: Eliot Kim @eliotkim_

I had the wonderful opportunity to connect with an exceptionally talented painter, Jyothee Murali, whose work has captivated many art enthusiasts and collectors alike. During our engaging Q&A session, I aimed to delve deeper into her background, exploring the intricate tapestry of her life that has led her to become a prominent figure in the art world.

Amit Ahuja: Let’s begin at the very beginning, where did you grow up, and what was the atmosphere of your hometown like—the people, the culture, and the everyday rhythms of life? Are there particular sensory details, moments, or memories that made it feel like home to you? Looking back now, how do you think that environment shaped you not only as an individual, but also as an artist?

Jyothee Murali: I grew up in Colombo, Sri Lanka, but a large part of my upbringing was also shaped by frequent visits to Jaffna, where my family is originally from. Being between these two places gave me a layered sense of home. Colombo offered diversity and movement, while Jaffna carried deep cultural roots and tradition.

Growing up around Sri Lankan and Tamil communities had a strong influence on how I see the world. The people, rituals, and everyday moments became part of me naturally. Looking back, that environment shaped not only who I am as a person, but also how I create. My work carries elements of identity, heritage, and lived experience that continue to guide my artistic perspective today.

Amit Ahuja: Can you take us back to your earliest relationship with art, before painting became your primary medium? How did art first enter your life, and how did that initial curiosity or exposure eventually evolve into a deeper commitment to painting? At what point did you realize this was something you wanted to pursue seriously, rather than simply as an interest or creative outlet?

Jyothee Murali: My relationship with art started very early. I began drawing when I was around two years old, scribbling on walls, and instead of stopping me, my parents let me explore it. Creativity was always something that lived inside me, and I expressed it through different mediums as I grew.

My dad played a big role in nurturing that creativity. He would buy me sketchbooks and encourage me to keep drawing, especially portraits. That support helped me see creativity as something worth pursuing seriously.

I officially started painting when I was ten, and from that point on, painting became a constant in my life. I began with landscapes and culturally inspired work. At nineteen, I dropped out of school and started my brand. That was when art stopped being a passion and became a commitment. Over time, my work evolved into anime inspired pieces and later came full circle back to cultural paintings, reconnecting me to my roots.

Amit Ahuja: Do you remember the first painting you ever felt truly proud of? What about that work made it special to you at the time, and how do you view it now with the benefit of experience, growth, and distance?

Jyothee Murali: The first painting I was truly proud of was the first one I ever sold. I was in Grade 10, barely sixteen, and I painted it in my high school library. When my librarian bought it for a few hundred dollars, it felt unreal.

That moment showed me that art could be more than expression. It could be something sustainable. Looking back, that painting represents belief and possibility. It was the foundation that showed me this path was real.

Amit Ahuja: Was there a defining moment when you understood that art would always be a central part of your life? If so, what did that realization feel emotionally or intellectually, and how did it begin to change the way you approached your practice and your future?

Jyothee Murali: The moment I realized art would always be part of my life was when I purchased my first property at the age of 22 using income made entirely from my artwork. After hearing for years that making a stable living from art was not possible, that moment was proof.

It validated years of belief, risk, and discipline. From that point on, art was no longer something I questioned. It became something I fully trusted as my future.

Photo Credit: Eliot Kim @eliotkim_

Amit Ahuja: When you reflect on your journey, how would you describe your evolution as an artist from your early years to where you are today? In what ways have your lived experiences, the places you’ve inhabited, and the people you’ve encountered shaped your artistic growth, perspective, and voice as a painter?

Jyothee Murali: My evolution as an artist has always been tied to experimentation. I started with pencil sketches, moved into acrylics, then oil painting to create more depth and detail. Recently, I began exploring UV and fluorescent paintings that transform under different lighting.

Travel has also shaped my work deeply. Visiting places like China, Bali, Sri Lanka, India, and Malaysia exposed me to new cultures, colors, and storytelling. I have also expanded beyond canvas into walls, jackets, shoes, and digital artwork. My journey has been about constant expansion while staying rooted in expression.

Amit Ahuja: Were there any early influences that played a significant role in nurturing your interest in art? This could include family members, teachers, mentors, or artists whose work or guidance encouraged you to trust your creative instincts and commit fully to your path.

Jyothee Murali: The most significant influences in my life have been my parents and my art teacher from Sri Lanka. My dad encouraged curiosity and lifelong learning. My mom supported my intuition, especially during uncertain moments. At times, I had only myself to rely on, and that experience taught me resilience and self trust.

Amit Ahuja: Traditional Indian art forms carry a deeply layered visual and narrative history. How have practices such as miniature painting, folk traditions, or temple art influenced your understanding of composition, color, symbolism, and storytelling within your own work?

Jyothee Murali: Traditional Indian storytelling has influenced my work deeply. Growing up, my dad read me stories from the Ramayana, and those narratives stayed with me. Visiting temples with my family shaped how I see symbolism, form, and meaning.

Today, those influences show through the Hindu god paintings I create. Looking back, those cultural experiences were never separate from my art. They were always forming its foundation.

Amit Ahuja: What does be a Tamil painter mean to you on a personal level? How do your cultural identity, lived experiences, and journey within Indian culture shape the themes, questions, and ideas you continue to explore through your paintings?

Jyothee Murali: I identify as a Tamil Jaffna painter from Ceylon, and that identity is something I carry with pride. Being a Hindu Tamil influences how I see the world. Visiting temples, witnessing sculptures, and growing up with spiritual practices naturally translated into my artwork.

My lived experiences in Sri Lanka and Malaysia continue to guide the themes I explore. Painting Hindu gods feels like a continuation of memory, belief, and lived reality rather than a stylistic choice.

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/9079c2_26a11a594b064683952159e783dbbf0c/720p/mp4/file.mp4

Video by Eliot Kim @eliotkim_

Amit Ahuja: For someone encountering your work for the first time, how would you describe your artistic style and visual language? And how has that style evolved over the years as your technical skill, conceptual interests, and worldview have deepened?

Jyothee Murali: After painting for over twenty years, I still do not define myself by a single style. I see constant exploration as growth. Over the years, I have worked with anime inspired pieces, portraits, realism, and cultural subjects.

What stands out in my work today is a strong focus on realism, detail, shadows, and highlights. My pieces take longer to create, but that time investment reflects my commitment to craftsmanship and evolution.

Amit Ahuja: I first encountered your work on Instagram and was particularly drawn to the piece you described as the “UV glow version.” Could you walk us through the technique behind this effect and explain how you technically achieve such a distinctive and immersive visual experience?

Jyothee Murali: I began experimenting with UV paintings because I wanted my work to be experienced differently under different light. Using fluorescent pigments, certain elements glow only under black light, revealing hidden layers.

I also incorporate glow in the dark paint, which absorbs light and emits it in darkness. These materials allow my paintings to exist in three states: daylight, UV light, and darkness, creating an immersive and transformative experience.

Amit Ahuja: Every artist experiences moments of uncertainty and doubt. How do you navigate creative blocks or periods of self-doubt, and what practices or strategies help you reconnect with your work during those challenging moments?

Jyothee Murali: I experience moments where creativity feels slower, but I do not label them as creative blocks. I focus on movement, balance, and grounding myself. Going to the gym and spending time with loved ones helps reset my energy.

Stepping away allows creativity to return naturally without pressure.

Amit Ahuja: On a deeper level, what does painting represent for you personally? Do you see it primarily as a spiritual act, a disciplined practice, a form of inquiry, or a fluid combination of all three?

Jyothee Murali: Painting is a form of alignment for me. It brings discipline, focus, and presence together. Beyond being a profession, it grounds me and provides clarity.

Over time, painting has become a constant in my life, something I return to regardless of circumstances. It gives me purpose beyond the canvas.

Amit Ahuja: When you begin a new painting, do you typically start with a clearly defined concept and plan, or do you prefer to let the work unfold organically as you respond intuitively to the process itself?

Jyothee Murali: My process depends on the piece. Sometimes I begin with a clear idea and sketch, and other times I work purely intuitively. I allow the painting to evolve naturally and remain open to change throughout the process.

Amit Ahuja: Your work often bridges tradition and contemporaneity. How do you consciously—or intuitively—balance traditional Indian elements with contemporary ideas, techniques, or themes within your practice?

Jyothee Murali: I do not consciously try to balance tradition and modernity. It happens naturally. Traditional subjects and cultural roots exist alongside modern materials and experimental techniques.

I trust intuition rather than forcing a contrast between old and new. The result feels honest and reflective of my journey.

Amit Ahuja: When viewers encounter your work, what do you hope stays with them after they leave the space? Is there a particular emotion, question, or resonance you want your paintings to carry forward?

Jyothee Murali: When viewers encounter my work, I hope they feel a sense of spiritual connection or nostalgia. I want the paintings to reconnect them with something familiar, meaningful, or deeply personal.

Amit Ahuja: Looking back at your body of work so far, is there a painting that fills you with a deep sense of pride? What does that piece represent to you in terms of growth, intention, or personal meaning?

Jyothee Murali: The painting that fills me with the most pride is the first one I ever sold. It represents belief, possibility, and the beginning of everything that followed.

Amit Ahuja: What advice would you offer to emerging artists who hope to build a career that feels meaningful, sustainable, and true to their own voice in today’s art world?

Jyothee Murali: Many emerging artists expect quick results and give up when they do not see immediate progress. Building a sustainable career requires consistency and patience.

Art should not be created for validation or views. It should come from passion and love for the process. Growth follows naturally when commitment is genuine.

Amit Ahuja: If your artistic philosophy could be reduced to a handful of words, which would you choose, and why do they feel deeply connected to your practice?

Jyothee Murali: My artistic philosophy is rooted in growth, intuition, discipline, and authenticity. I believe in continuous learning and trusting the process. I create from lived experience rather than trends.

As long as the work remains honest and evolving, I know I am on the right path.

Amit Ahuja: Looking ahead, what themes, ideas, or subjects are you most excited to explore in the future? What about this direction that feels especially urgent or compelling to you right now?

Jyothee Murali: I am drawn to exploring Hinduism and its visual culture more deeply. I want to understand the history, symbolism, and philosophies behind the stories I grew up with.

This exploration feels especially important now, and that understanding will naturally reflect in my future work.

Amit Ahuja: Beyond visual art, what other forms of storytelling inspire you? This could include films, books, series, music, or podcasts. What is it about these mediums—their emotional depth, narrative structure, or craftsmanship—that fuels your imagination?

Jyothee Murali: Beyond visual art, storytelling through books and spoken narratives has deeply influenced me, especially stories rooted in history and spirituality.

These narratives shape how I approach symbolism and meaning in my paintings, even when the story is not literal.

Amit Ahuja: Many artists speak openly about the connection between creativity and mental health. Can you share your experience navigating that balance in both your artistic and personal life? What tools, practices, or support systems have been most

meaningful to you, and what advice would you offer to young artists learning to protect their well-being while pursuing their craft?

Jyothee Murali: Maintaining balance between creativity and mental well being is essential for me. Staying active, spending time with loved ones, and stepping away when needed helps me stay grounded.

My advice to young artists is to protect their well being as much as their craft. Creativity thrives when there is balance, not constant pressure.

Amit Ahuja: Finally, as we come to a close, what reflections would you like to leave with my readers—and with anyone currently chasing a dream? Is there a message, truth, or perspective that feels especially important to share at this moment?

Jyothee Murali: Pursuing a dream requires patience, belief, and trust in your own path. The journey is not linear, and uncertainty is part of the process.

Stay consistent, stay curious, and do not measure your progress against someone else’s timeline. When work is created with honesty and discipline, things align in unexpected ways.

Amit Ahuja: Thank You to Jyothee Murali for sharing your story with us today.

Photo Credit: Eliot Kim @eliotkim_

Please explore Jyothee Murali's remarkable artwork on her Instagram page

Jyothee Murali's Instagram Page:

https://www.instagram.com/jyxdi/

If you are interested in purchasing or commissioning a piece, kindly visit her website below:

Jyothee Murali's Website:

https://jyxdi.com/

*** All photos and videos are by Eliot Kim @eliotkim, unless otherwise noted***