Interview
Dr. Ujjwal Datta
Dr. Ujjwal Datta us a podiatrist by profession but photography has been his hobby for quite some time. His interest in astrophotography peaked in 2021, after he captured his first Milky Way in 2019. The passion blossomed further in 2021 and he has not looked back. He likes to travel to various destinations and have taken various workshops to craft his passion for astrophotography better. Journey with Ujjwal and enjoy the beauty of our galaxy and beyond!
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“I am a podiatrist, but photography has been my hobby for quite some time. I have always been the photographer for family events as well as our vacations as I felt capturing the nostalgia through my lens would leave an everlasting memory of any event, whether it be a vacation or a family get-together. My interest in astrophotography peaked in 2021 after I captured my first Milky Way in 2018. Then after I started “practicing” more Milky Way photography, I started to feel connected to being under the stars and enjoying the entire process. During the COVID-19 pandemic, when everything was shut down for a few months, I decided to sharpen my skills and my newfound passion. The passion blossomed further in 2021 and I have not looked back. I like to travel to various destinations and have taken various workshops to craft my passion for astrophotography better.”
What inspires you?
“The beauty of the night skies, and the vastness of our galaxy and beyond have inspired me to not only capture them in my mind's eye but also through my lenses to share the joy and passion with others.”
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“I mainly pursue astrophotography. My underlying message is for everyone to feel connected with the galaxy, our universe in a self non-egotistic way.”
How would you describe your work?
“My passion is astrophotography. When I am under the stars, I feel very connected to the universe. It is very spiritual and calming. I aim to inspire the younger generation to develop this passion.”
Which artists influence you most?
“Other astrophotographers who have blazed this trail.”
“My passion is astrophotography. When I am under the stars, I feel very connected to the universe. It is very spiritual and calming.”
What is your creative process like?
“I draw my inspiration from nature. Nature is the best artist there is and she invokes my creativity. I try to combine the beauty of nature on our planet with that of the Heavens above.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“An artist's role is to inspire others through their work. Our generation and the next are now becoming excessively technology-dependent and losing their connection with Nature. I aim to inspire, especially the generation--our kids--to look up at the night sky and be mesmerized by it. Inspire them to be selfless, humble, and just like a star shine on to illuminate many others around them.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“Yes! I have had the honor of my photography being featured in my local town library in a 3-week exhibition. I also exhibited and showcased my work at a Holistic Weekend event at Willow Creek Winery in June, 2024.”
Website: www.UjjwalDattaPhotography.com
Instagram: @ujjwaldattaphotography
Brush Bio: brush.bio/ujjwaldattaphotography
