Jayantilal Shihora grew up in Gujarat as the healthy son of a grain merchant. At the age of 14, he lost both hands in an accident while opening a box of fireworks during the Diwali festival. He describes the months that followed as a “dark period full of depression”. Five years later, he learned of artists that painted using their mouth or feet, and persevered to teach himself to use both pencil and paintbrush with his mouth. In 1963, he received a scholarship from the MFPA to study fine art, and went on to become an accomplished painter and associate member of MFPA.

Inspired by classical European and Indian artists, Mr. Shihora has developed a distinctive style, and uses oils and tempera to paint landscapes, seascapes and traditional scenes from his hometown. He lives in Gujarat with his wife and son, and is MFPA India’s most senior member.