#Inktober: An annual challenge encourages young Indian artists to flaunt their creativity

A black and white crow, its beak wide open, leaps out of Avik Kumar Maitra’s Nevermore. Made with ink and gouache on paper, the corvid’s drawing has won several fans on Facebook, and might lead to revenue, if some of the comments, offering to buy Maitra’s art, are to be believed.

Maitra drew Nevermore as part of the ongoing #INKtober, an annual challenge that has millions of drawings being created across the world and shared via social media. According to the rules, every October, artists create 31 ink drawings in 31 days, using the hashtag #INKtober.

Conceptualised in 2009 by illustrator Jake Parker, the challenge aims to improve people's inking skills and develop a positive habit. #INKtober has since grown into a massive worldwide endeavour, with thousands upon thousands of artists and hobbyists contributing their art and doodles.

"Anyone can do INKtober, just pick up a pen and start drawing," Parker writes on his website. "#INKtober is about growing and improving and forming positive habits, so the more you’re consistent the better."

In India, young artists are sharing their creations with the location specific hashtag #INKtoberIndia. These include a colourful recreation of Hindu god Ram attacking mythological villain, Raavan, posted by graphic designer Sai Charan. At present, the total count for #INKtober illustrations on Instagram is 2,952,179 posts and counting.

Parker has also made an official prompt list, in case an artist needs some inspiration. Illustrators are encouraged to draw every day, and be consistent. The prompt list features words like hurry, tired, burn and squeeze, among others.

Most illustrators and graphic designers seem to prefer Instagram for sharing their work, and interact with their fans and friends without the monopoly of physical galleries. #INKtober's particular draw lies in the fact that it is a group activity – and only lasts 31 days.

From Twitter to Facebook, Instagram to Imgur, #INKtober is inspiring for artists and non-artists alike. Here are some of the most interesting entries by Indian artists: