Born in 1981, Sushil Soni is a traditional pichwai artist from Nathdwara, Rajasthan and comes from a family involved in the Pichwai tradition of painting. He started painting at the age of 10 with his father and continued his formal art education and graduated in Art from Nathdwara College. Traditionally painted by the priests of Sreenathji Temple in Nathdwara, Pichwai paintings are narratives of the life of Lord Krishna. Considered to be offerings to the deity, Pichwai paintings adorn the walls of temples behind the idol of Srinathji in Nathdwara and depict the form of Lord Krishna, who according to legend lifts the Govardhan mountain to protect the inhabitants from Lord Indra’s fury.

Sushil Soni paints on cloth and his style is identified by characteristic features like large eyes, a broad nose and a heavy body. Rich embroidery, gold and appliqué work are used to embellish his paintings. He also experiments with various mediums and techniques and has introduced the technique of miniature art into his folk pichwai paintings.

Sushil has participated in several exhibitions across India such as Marushree Parishad, Kolkata and Dastkar Hath Samiti, New Delhi. He has also conducted several workshops and camps to build awareness around this art form. Sushil has won many state level competitions and was honoured by the State Government in 2000.