Transformation through imagination: Immersive experiences by mixed media artist Pravee Rughoobur
An interview with the artist by Ricarda McFalls
While Spring reveals her first light in Ottawa, OLT patrons visiting the Spotlight Gallery this month will feel her full embrace through the works of guest artist Pravee Rughoobur. Born and raised in Mauritius and newly arrived in Ottawa, Pravee Rughoobur brings the richly vibrant colors of the Indian Ocean-nation to life on canvas but also demonstrates that beauty can be found everywhere. He delights in transforming discarded scrap materials from Ottawa waste bins into stunning experiential installations to provide patrons with an immersive experience.
As reflected in our interview below, Pravee’s creativity was both innate and inspired by his father, leading him to study and work in art and design. For the past 17 years, Pravee’s artwork has been exhibited internationally and earned various awards, including the People’s Choice Award (Mauritius Business Networks, 2022) and Man of the Year in the field of Arts and Culture (Train2Gain, 2022, and 2023).
Praveee’s path to Ottawa and the Spotlight Gallery has been unconventional but inspiring. Pravee quickly established himself in the Ottawa art scene, making his way to the final rounds of the Ottawa Art Battle (2024).
Can you share what led you to pursue the arts? Did you study art formally?
Creativity is the heartbeat of my passion; woven intricately into the personal journey of every artistic endeavor I take. From the time I was a little boy, the spark of imagination captivated me, turning even the simplest moments into opportunities for creation and self-expression.
My formal training in the arts began at the University of Technology of Mauritius, where I immersed myself in graphic design and animation. From mastering the brushstrokes of traditional art to exploring the limitless dimensions of digital artistry and 3D animation, I discovered the magic of bringing ideas to life.
As a fresh face in Canada, I had the exhilarating chance to step into the spotlight at the Ottawa Art Battle (2024). Competing among talented artists, I painted my way to the final rounds, an experience that marked a vibrant beginning to my creative journey here.
What inspires your choice of media?
My favorite medium is mixed media, where textures, forms, and shapes come together to tell a story. I love experimenting—layering materials, playing with contrast, and building pieces that invite touch and exploration. Over time, this passion grew into installation art, creating immersive spaces where viewers can step into the heart of the artwork. For me, it’s all about turning ideas into tangible, sensory experiences.
My art finds its soul in the beauty and rhythm of nature, a source of endless inspiration that I channel into my canvas and installation pieces. Growing up surrounded by the Indian Ocean in a tropical paradise, I was immersed in the rich textures and vibrant colors of the natural world—a gift that deeply shaped my creative vision.
But my journey into art wasn’t just inspired by the environment; it was also rooted in watching my father’s hands at work. With incredible ingenuity, he transformed scrap materials into captivating sculptures for the Holi festival of Maha Shivaratri. His ability to breathe life into discarded objects planted the seed of creativity in me, teaching me to see art in everything and infuse emotion into every piece I create.
You have been in Ottawa only a short time. How did you get to know Ottawa Little Theatre?
It was perhaps serendipity. I was working as a security guard for CANSPC (the firm providing security for OLT), where the duty manager mentioned the gallery. Encouraged, I submitted my portfolio, and with the support of the board, especially Venetia Lawless, I was given this incredible opportunity. I am deeply grateful to the Ottawa Little Theatre for hosting my first solo exhibition in the Spotlight Gallery.
