Nikita Neogy Receives Praise from Robert Shetterly

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Contact: Abigail Richardson, [email protected]                               

Young Artist Nikita Neogy Receives Personal Praise from Renowned Portrait Artist Robert Shetterly

Although she missed the official submission deadline for the MY HERO Portrait Contest, Grade 10 student Nikita Neogy has earned something arguably more meaningful: direct recognition and praise from celebrated portrait artist Robert Shetterly. 

The Last Spark (click on the image for more information)

The Last SparkNikita Neogy  

Nikita submitted two portrait pieces to the contest, part of the MY HERO Project’s ongoing effort to highlight young artists who capture the spirit of heroism through visual storytelling. While her entries arrived too late for formal consideration for this particular contest, they nonetheless made a powerful impression. So much so that Robert Shetterly personally reached out to Nikita, writing:

“I was amazed to see the portraits you submitted to the My Hero contest. Your surprising control over the various media you use and the strength of character you convey are very impressive. And your eye and skill for detail are matched by your sense of when to let go of detail. Powerful work!” 

The Lasting Legacy  (click on the image for more information)

Nikita NeogyThe Last Legacy 

For Nikita, the message was both unexpected and deeply meaningful.

In her reply, she shared:

“Thank you so much for your incredibly kind and encouraging email, especially since it's coming from an artist whose work I respect so much. It means the world to me that you took the time to look at my art!”

Nikita, a student at Universal American School in Dubai, has been developing her artistic voice from a young age. Drawn early on to portraiture, she has long been fascinated by human expression, particularly the emotion conveyed through the eyes.

During the COVID-19 lockdowns, she devoted herself more fully to her craft, transforming curiosity into a lasting passion. Over time, she explored a range of media, with watercolor and soft pastel becoming early favorites. More recently, she discovered oil painting, a medium she now embraces with enthusiasm.

Her experience highlights an important truth at the heart of the MY HERO Project: recognition isn’t always confined to deadlines or formal awards. Sometimes, the most meaningful moments come from genuine connection and encouragement within the creative community.

Nikita’s story stands as an inspiring reminder to young artists everywhere—keep creating, keep sharing, and your work will find its audience.

To see more of Nikita's work, visit her MY HERO Page here: and visit her Instagram.

To enter the MY HERO the next MY HERO Contest, Poetry, Spoken Word, Film, and Illustration, please go to: myhero.com/poetry-contest

MY HEROMattie Poerty and Art Contest