The word “prodigy” is a weighted one. It puts a huge burden on a child.
However, there’s really no other word to describe a 12-year-old child who creates art on the scale that Zoya Eshwar does. From the age of two, Zoya has produced remarkable art influenced by cubism, realism, symbolism, and even the television artist and instructor Bob Ross.
Zoya Eshwar, founder of Pastel Souls (Image: Pastel Souls)
Zoya’s mother runs an art studio/school in Redmond. As with many mothers, she took her child to work with her, in lieu of formal child care. Noticing Zoya’s curiosity, she provided her with some supplies. She has photos of Zoya reproducing exactly what she saw, with little instruction. Zoya just did it.
By age five, Zoya’s work was winning awards; she donated the prize money to charity. Recently, Zoya spoke about her experience with a friend who has Down Syndrome. They created art together, and doing so ignited a spark in Zoya that inspired her to reach out and help others.
Pastel Souls, a youth-led art initiative, was the flame that burst from that spark. Through it, Zoya and other volunteers bring free art workshops or artmaking experiences to retirement communities, libraries, parks, and Boys and Girls Clubs. Basically, anywhere people gather.
The artist also hosts free community service artmaking projects at her mother’s Sweety Saradha Arts Studio. Participants create art to donate to local nursing home residents, including items like suncatchers and Christmas ornaments.
“Volunteers are the heart of what we do,” Zoya said of Pastel Souls. “We make sure everyone feels safe to share what they’re going through — whether happy or sad. We encourage each other to be strong and speak your heart out.”
“By empowering other youth leaders through training, leadership opportunities, and mentorship, I hope to ensure workshops can thrive with or without me being present at every step,” Zoya said. “My dream is to create a strong circle of young changemakers who will carry the mission forward.”
While all Pastel Souls events are grounded in artmaking, Zoya stressed: “It’s about building community, spreading kindness, and helping children realize that their creativity can make a difference in the world. That’s the spirit behind everything I do.”
Zoya Eshwar has received the Youngest Art Prodigy and Philanthropist and the Global Child Art Prodigy awards. There are many reasons for recognition and recognition by the nonprofit Points of Light as an ‘Impact Icon.’ Chief among them is Zoya’s belief: “Art has the power to heal.”
Learn how to get involved: zoyasrainbowtouch.com
