India Part 2: Painting Inspiration in Jaipur, Sikar, and the Road to Bikaner
Mark Clark’s artistic journey through India continues, and in this leg, he’s heading from the bustling capital of Delhi to Bikaner. Along the way, he makes a pit stop in Sikar and spends time soaking up Jaipur’s colors, culture, and unexpected charms. Join us on this road trip as Mark discovers India painting inspiration in the vibrant streets, surreal hotel stays, and even the deliciously simple meals along the way.
A Pit Stop in Sikar: Onions, Cricket, and Some Surreal Indian Painting Inspiration
Seven hours on the road can be a lot for anyone, so to break up the journey, Mark made a stop in Sikar—a town known for its bustling markets, onion trade, and one-of-a-kind vibe. Sikar is like the Melton Mowbray of India: famous for one local specialty (onions, instead of pork pies). You get the feeling one visit is probably enough, but the experience itself was memorable and full of India painting inspiration for Mark.
The hotel was straight out of Fawlty Towers but without the bar, so Mark ventured across the road to a nearby spot. The surreal surroundings didn’t stop him from enjoying the local flavor, though—two large 650ml Kingfisher beers came to just £3! As he relaxed with cricket on in the background, he couldn’t help but imagine bringing some of this eccentric energy back to his hometown gallery, the Orange Tree in Baldock.
Indian Weddings and Late-Night Daal: Delhi Inspo Continued
From his hotel, Mark caught a glimpse of a traditional Indian wedding procession—a vibrant, noisy celebration full of life, colour, and ritual. The sight left an impression, giving him a spark of India painting inspiration as he imagined how to capture the movement, intricate costumes, and joy of the wedding guests. His evening meal, a local feast of daal makhani, veg biryani, butter naan, and roti for two, was as delightful as it was affordable (just £3.50!). There’s something endlessly inspiring about the simplicity and richness of everyday life here, and Mark couldn’t wait to translate these experiences into his work.
Onward to Jaipur and a Palette of Colors
The journey continued through Jaipur, known for its pink-hued architecture, bustling bazaars, and beautiful palaces that are all a painter’s dream come true. Though Jaipur was just a stop on the way to Bikaner, the city’s vibrant streets, rich textiles, and colorful temples provided ample India painting inspiration. Every corner of Jaipur offers a new perspective on light and colour, an invitation to take in the palette of oranges, reds, and blues that Mark loves to work with.
Sights and Scenes for Future Artworks
Mark’s India trip has been filled with eclectic sights and experiences, from surreal hotels and cricket-viewing bars to roadside towns with quirky fame. It’s this contrast between the everyday and the extraordinary that brings depth to his artwork. The bold colours, bustling markets, and joyful celebrations of Indian life are not only inspiring his current sketches but also sparking ideas for entire series.
Stay tuned for Part 3. We can’t wait to see how these experiences translate into his latest collection at the Orange Tree gallery.
Mark’s road trip through India is only beginning, and every stop along the way is adding layers of inspiration to his upcoming artwork. Here’s to the unexpected experiences, quirky signs, and deliciously simple meals that make India painting inspiration come alive.
For more information on Mark’s amazing Indian inspired pieces contact
Mark Clark Fine Art.
