I was born in Singapore and raised in Malaysia. I speak English, Tamil, and Malay, fluently. My father was a rubber plantation supervisor, so I grew up surrounded by abundant nature and wild life. At the heart and soul of my being I will always be very much a country girl, nature and wild life will always continue to fuel my inspiration and being.

I was the fourth of eight children, and we grew up in quite humble surroundings. In addition, I was lucky enough to have two families, one Chinese (they were Catholic) and the other Indian (they were Hindu). I like to think that I adopted the best of both worlds.

Helping other people has always been my passion, so at age 24 I returned to Singapore to pursue a career in nursing. The busy and commercial city life in Singapore was initially quite foreign to me, but being a nurse made up for it. And it continued to fuel me as I spent time in both Australia and Singapore developing my skills. I grew weary of nursing when procedures took precedence over patient care.

In 1992 I met my husband Van Tharp in Singapore, and our marriage brought me to North Carolina. Since I've been in the United States, I've helped run my husband's company, trained in computers and as an image consultant.

Since that time, we added two members to our family, my niece Nanthini, who is my older sister's daughter and Ari.  My niece is like a daughter to us, she is the pride and joy of our life.  Ari our wonderful dog, who was my husband's birthday gift form me, has changed my life completely.  Caring for Ari has given me a heart for the less fortunate pets in the world and a desire to help animals in need. 

I also have an intimate passion for food. I am a fan of International cuisine; I love food that is full of flavor and spices. I also enjoy preparing and experimenting with various types of food. But I must admit, due to my nursing background I am very much into what is nutritious and wholesome.

Creative skills have always driven me, as have nature's beauty and color. This led me to pursue art under the guidance of Joan Vinal. Under Joan's direction, I once again had the opportunity to create and have fun.

I paint what I see with my feelings. I feel that my paintings are only complete when the sight of the painting gives me the right vibration.  I have to feel the vibration, and it is a really good feeling when I can say the painting is finished!

I continue to pursue art under the guidance of accomplised artist such a Susan Hecht, Bob Rankin, and others. 

My goal as an artist is to continue to channel my inspirations on to canvas right to the last day, God willing!