EP #22: Vikrant Shitole | Watercolor & The Future of Art in the Age of AI | Wet On Wet Podcast
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In Episode 22 of the Wet On Wet Podcast, host Sunil Kalbandi sits down with Indian watercolor artist Vikrant Shitole for a thoughtful conversation about navigating the modern art world — where traditional craftsmanship meets rapidly evolving technology.
Vikrant is known for his expressive watercolor landscapes and his active presence within the online art community. Through social media, he has connected with artists and collectors across the world, but he believes that the real foundation of an artist’s career still lies in strong artistic fundamentals and consistent practice.
This episode explores the opportunities and challenges artists face in today’s digital age — from the rise of social media platforms to the growing presence of artificial intelligence in creative industries.
Vikrant shares an honest perspective on how social media can be a powerful tool for artists, offering exposure, learning opportunities, and global connection. However, he also emphasizes that social media can create misleading expectations. Many emerging artists believe that gaining followers quickly leads to artistic success, but Vikrant explains that recognition always comes from the quality of the work itself.
The conversation also touches on the impact of AI across multiple creative fields including animation, photography, modeling, and design. While these technologies are rapidly transforming industries, Vikrant believes that the core of artistic expression will always remain human.
History has shown this before. When photography was introduced, many believed portrait painters would disappear. When computers became widespread, people feared traditional art would lose its relevance. Yet artistic expression has continued to evolve.
Technology may change the tools artists use, but the understanding of aesthetics, composition, and visual storytelling remains deeply rooted in human creativity.
Vikrant encourages artists to stay aware of new technologies, adapt when necessary, and continue evolving with the times. At the same time, he reminds artists not to rely entirely on tools or platforms.
The most important work still happens on the canvas.
Artists must continue developing their painting skills, building their visual language, and focusing on meaningful creative growth. If the work is authentic and unique, recognition will eventually follow.
This episode is an important reminder for artists navigating the modern creative landscape: stay curious, stay adaptable, but never lose sight of the fundamentals that make art meaningful.
Guest
Vikrant Shitole
Watercolor Artist
Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/vikrantdshitole/
Host
Sunil Kalbandi
Website
https://kalbandi.com
Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/sunilkalbandi
Podcast
Wet On Wet Podcast
Topics Discussed in This Episode
• Social media and the modern art world
• Misconceptions about fame and followers
• The impact of AI on creative industries
• Why artistic fundamentals still matter
• Adapting to new technology without losing authenticity
• Building a sustainable artistic career